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Questions about Medicare are common and expected. See if your question has already been answered below.
Or watch our trusted community advisors explain benefits and networks in easy, simple terms.
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What is the “donut hole” for drug coverage?
This is a stage of Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage known as the coverage gap, when medications have limited coverage. Some Medicare Advantage plans, such as HealthMate for Medicare (PPO), provide additional coverage through the gap.
Are my medications covered?
Have a look at the list of prescription drugs that are covered by your plan. It’s called a formulary. These are often divided into levels, or tiers. Drugs listed in the lower tiers cost you less.
Find 2021 formulary here
I’ll need new glasses next year. Is that covered?
All BCBSRI Medicare Advantage plans cover routine vision office visit at $0. Benefits for vision hardware range from $100 to $200.
Compare all the plans
How do I know if my doctor or pharmacy is in-network?
You can find in-network doctors, dentists, and pharmacies on our Find a Doctor page. (Tip: Choose the plan you are considering from the list on that page.) You also can get help by calling one of our Medicare advisors.
How do I get materials about a plan I’m considering?
We have collected all the plan materials on one page here. If you have a specific question, such as whether a certain doctor is in-network, you can call one of our Medicare advisors for the most up-to-date information.
What is a PCMH?
A patient-centered medical home (PCMH) is a type of doctor’s office with a team of people committed to improving your health and helping you live a healthier lifestyle. Your PCMH team can help you achieve your health goals. For example, they might help you quit smoking, control your diabetes or asthma, lose weight, or manage your stress.
Most BCBSRI Medicare Advantage plans offer $0 office visits at PCMHs.
Can I set up premium payments online?
Yes, you will be able to set up recurring payments in the Billing Center on myBCBSRI.
Will I need a referral?
The HealthMate for Medicare (PPO) plan does not require referrals. BlueCHiP for Medicare plans do require referrals. Some services, however, don’t need them. Learn more here. You can get more specific answers by calling one of our Medicare advisors.
How do I compare copays for each plan?
You can view the most common copays across each of our Medicare Advantage plans here.
Which plans cover dental?
All of our Medicare Advantage plans include dental coverage, except BlueCHiP for Medicare Advance (HMO) and BlueCHiP for Medicare Core (HMO). You can add dental coverage to those two plans.
