Frequently Asked Questions about
Health Insurance

How do I begin to choose between Medicare HMO plans?
You should make a list of what is important to you if you get sick. If you have a favorite primary care physician or a favorite hospital, you need to find out in if they participate in the plan you are interested in pursuing. If you have a pre-existing condition that requires ongoing medical care such as diabetes, make sure the physician you see for treatment is in the network. You also might want to look at the added benefits different HMO plans offer such as dental exams and eyeglasses.

What if I join an HMO and I don't like it?
The law allows you to opt out at any time and either join another HMO or go back to the traditional Medicare program. After you have made up your mind to change, you will only be "locked" in for the remainder of the month after you have notified the plan of your decision.

In what Medicare HMO networks does Saints Medical Center participate?
Saints participates in:

.  Medicare Preferred HMO (Tufts)
.  Managed Care for Seniors (Blue Cross Part B Supplement)

For additional information on Medicare Advantage Programs, call 800-633-4227 or visit www.cms.HHS.gov/consumers  
Other Resources: Call the Massachusetts Office of Patient Protection at 800-436-7757