As an aside, be careful about dental offices. (I know, I know; wishful thinking) I would like to share my experience. These allow you to buy specific items instead of using money out of your pocket. Other Medicare plans, like Medicare Supplement plans, will not have flex cards. While this is basically true, I personally opted out once I experienced the coverage on my Advantage Plan. Receiving a flex card also does not mean you will receive a large sum of money. Well, the insurance companies claim that you will have access to other benefits not covered by your Medicare. These premiums vary from company to company. These cards are debit cards typically linked to a flexible spending account. Even though we are seeing more private Medicare Advantage plans provide this benefit, they aren't common. It is designed to give you a little more freedom when prioritizing your health needs regarding dental, vision and hearing coverage specifically. If you have questions, post them here. Hello Robert: I am sad to hear that you have no other options. I bet it is a form of advertising that they hope to hook you in once you call them. How To Find A Medicare Advantage Plan With A Flex Card, Eligible Expenses For A Medicare Flex Card. Since this is essentially free money that the insurance company is giving you, the higher the amount, the better. If you are looking to reduce your healthcare spending, enrolling in a Medicare Supplement plan could be a step in the right direction. Of course, the amount varies depending on your chosen insurance company, plan, and location. Since she is already on an advantage plan for the rest of the year would she get ANY benefit from a Flex card? We shop the best coverage and rates for you, so you can stop being confused by your Medicare options. One such benefit is the Medicare flex . When was the last time the government did something right? If you qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in your state, you will receive an . Many companies give you the option of checking your balance online. A Medicare flex card such as the Anthem Benefits Prepaid Card gives you convenient access to benefits your plan provides. Thanks for your thoughtful comments. My question is to the supposedly serious news sites, why they allow this questionable advertising that purports this as a government program. And we seniors have to be so careful to not be taken advantage of. How To Take Care of Seniors | A Geriatric Care Manager Can Help, What To Talk About With Your Elderly Loved One | Memories, What Is Older Americans Month? I would call your old insurance and talk to a person who is versed in these issues. Remember that you cannot simply change Medicare plans at any time during the year. Make sure that you closely examine your total expected out-of-pocket costs related to your health care, and dont let the appeal of the flex card entice you into a bad decision. On the other hand, Medicare Supplement plans allow beneficiaries to save money while receiving the benefits they need to reduce Original Medicare costs. I have written a few articles about scams. I dont want to give you the wrong advice. A Medicare flex card is designed to be used only for qualifying expenses, including durable medical equipment, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter medications, as well as the deductible and other services. Flex: $0* Flex Rx: $39.40. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options. You cant use these cards at any store like you do your bank debit card. Disclaimer:Medicare Allies is not affiliated with Medicare or any other government agency. Flex cards are debit cards for those purchasing medical equipment. Only a small number of private insurance companies offer flex cards, and even then, it . Contact the insurance company that manages the plan in which you wish to enroll. Im assuming because its out of the open enrollment period. In many cases, you can enroll for health care coverage with the company online. November 18, 2021 06:47. Copyright 2022 Medigap.com. Here is a fairly comprehensive list of items that can be paid for with your flex card. No matter what type of plan youre looking for, Medicare Allies can help. Provide them with your personal information, like your name, address, and other identifying information, to get signed up. A Medicare flex card for seniors is similar to a debit card or credit card that can be used to pay for qualified medical expenses. Lindsay Malzone is the Medicare editor for Medigap.com. How Much Can I Earn While On Social Security? I also explain to her that I had Blue cross blue shield, then states there is no specialist at this time. Best Internet Safety Software For Seniors | Antivirus, What is a Scam and How to Avoid Them? These cards, issued by private insurance companies, are only available on specific plans. Barbara. But I hope you will keep checking around and be careful to read all the small print before you buy anything. Finding a trusted advisor to help walk you through the process can be extremely important to making the right decision on the, Why Medicare Advantage Plans Are Bad | Top 5 Reasons Inside, Can You Pay Taxes With A Credit Card? Have you called this new insurance and told them about your issues? Up to $5,100 in extra help paying for prescription medications. These organizations can help you through these complex decisions, and they can provide all the details you need to make the most informed decision. I have to do an advantage plan as I am 76 years old and any other plan costs about $200 a month and who on SS (I do have a pension also) can afford $2,400 a year for a medical plan. Im a Senior Citizen Who Wants To Learn Something New, Agencies that Help Senior Citizens (especially during COVID19). I truly believe this was an instance of bait and switch. Signed, one duped sucker! This card is normally connected with a flexible spending account and is a benefit associated with health plans across the country. Offer the Medicare Advantage flex card from WEX. Im glad you hung up. The choice is ultimately yours. Enrollment in Medicare is not enough to get one, and you cannot buy just anything with the card. Flex Cards are for use to cover qualifying medical expenses only. It is best to contact your insurer directly to inquire if your plan offers this benefit. Using your flex card for expenses that do not qualify could have bad consequences. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Typically linked to a flexible spending account, these cards are a benefit of qualifying health plans. Thank you so much for this information. $0. Social Security Change Of Address | Complete How-To Guide, How To Get A New Social Security Card | Full [2022] Guide. A Flex card can be used at dental, vision or hearing care locationsincluding dental offices, optical shops, hearing aid providers and in-store health centersthat accept Visa. It is not covered by Medicare. The flex card benefit is not a common feature of Medicare Advantage plans, but you can find it in a handful of plans nationwide. Dear Ron: First, thanks for your sweet support in reading my article. There are many organizations out there that help seniors with Medicare planning and other similar items, so finding one of these organizations can provide a great benefit. Vital Rx Flex | Flex Rx Flex | Flex Rx PPO Monthly Premium 1. Why? This flex card isnt what it claims to be. After calculating that I would be out a certain amount of money by year end due to the extra premiums, I decided an Advantage plan was not for me. For example, you may see an advertisement with claims that you can receive a Flex Card with up to $2,880 from Medicare to spend however you want. Humana Healthy Options, OTC and Flex allowances. These cards are only available to Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to order a replacement card to be sent in the mail. What can you do with the Medicare Flex Card? Utilities, water, electric, phone, cable TV The idea is that it gives you a flexible sum to put toward the coverage you wish to prioritize, such as dental work or a new hearing aid. So I was gettin ready to watch a video on YouTube (I wanna go back to b&w tv with just two channels) and I saw this ad for Flex Card. Barbara. She stated she did not know why. Reach out and give us a call to compare your options so you can make an informed coverage choice. I wish you the best. Everything you need to know about flex cards for seniors: what they are, who needs them, and how Medicare can help provide coverage. Further, the ads tend to be unclear about which items are eligible for purchase with flex cards. Sign-up for our free Medicare Part D Newsletter, Use the Online Calculators, FAQs or contact us through our Helpdesk -- Powered by Q1GROUP LLC and National Insurance Markets, Inc I do not know if she can opt out of that and get more in her SS monthly check. In fact, the majority of plans do not have this benefit. Told her no thank you, Ill stick with what I have. The process usually just requires providing them with your basic personal information to get you signed up. A flex card for seniors on Medicare is a debit card offered by certain private Medicare Advantage providers. Flex cards are debit cards that are used to buy medical supplies and equipment. These cards, issued by private insurance companies, are only available on specific plans. So, how do you avoid these scams? He is featured in many publications as well as writes regularly for other expert columns regarding Medicare. What is the process for applying for a senior Flex Card? Although some major carriers offer plans with flex cards, they are not part of most available plans. We seniors have to stay informed. What Is a Medicare Flex Card (and What Are the Benefits)? In reality, a very small percentage of plans available nationwide offer this benefit. The process varies a little depending on whether or not you have already signed up for Medicare. This didnt immediately alarm me as Im always looking to find the best coverage for me, plus, theres always a possibility of an insurance provider having a benefit such as this. Purses are unique to a benefit category and are Once the card arrives, you can begin using it for qualified medical expenses like copays, deductibles, OTC medications, and other expenses. Great information and yes I always do my homework. Is Medisafe a Good App For Seniors? Medicare Advantage plans, which are privatized Medicare . So, what is a flex card? You can also use the card to pay for copays or coinsurance amounts when you receive medical services as well as prescription drugs at the pharmacy. I am not going to use the name of the company. Depending on the plan you choose. As long as you are enrolled in a participating Medicare Advantage plan, you will receive the flex card. Medicare supplement insurance is an extension of Original Medicare that helps pay for out-of-pocket expenses not covered by Original Medicare. Since not all plans are available in all locations, you will want to make sure that you are specifically looking for plans available where you live. I suggest you check out various ads for this card. Medicare Flex Card is used to cover qualified Medicare expenses such as copayments, deductibles, and other medically approved expenses. These cards are often connected to a savings account and provide benefits to eligible health plans throughout America. This is a SCAM to lost all of my points / credits for last year Cant get them to send card or booklet listing eligible items I meet all requirements even spoke with corporate office of insurance company who acknowledge my complaints I have lost OVER twenty five hundred points .. 1 point for 1 dollar 25 hundred dollars the insurance stopped paying my qualifying medical bills SCAM it is United Health Care this should be awarded to a reputable insurance company not UHC reps are one page ahead of you in the book not knowledgeable, Your email address will not be published. Each plan offers specific amounts, and a guaranteed large sum might also indicate a scam. First, you must be eligible for Medicare. Medical equipment. Thanks EIP! Thus, these cards are not part of the government-run program. In that case, you can call the customer service number on the back of your medical card to receive assistance. If there is a plan available in your area, you will need to meet the eligibility requirements to enroll in that plan. Thank you for your comment. So you will need to make sure your new plans network covers your physicians. Medicare Coverage Outside the United States Remember that there are other things to consider about these Medicare Advantage plans beyond the flex card benefit. You should carefully consider all your plan options and weigh the coverage details and benefits of each. Call or visit your local Social Security Administration office. Owned by: Elite Insurance Partners LLC d/b/a MedicareFAQ. Use the card to pay for health care services not covered by Medicare, such as dental, vision and hearing care. But if you havent cancelled your old policy, you should still be able to use it. Medicare flex card eligibility for groceries will vary with the plan. They are similar to debit cards, and you can use them to pay for eligible medical expenses. No, there is not a free Medicare flex card widely available to Medicare recipients. I asked her how much and she said free. When was the last time the government did something right? Hi, I have Humana insurance I would like to know how to go back to Medicare if you could give me some info sure would appreciate it very much thank you for your time. Medicare Supplement plans help beneficiaries reduce out-of-pocket spending by covering the holes in Original Medicare. Our new Benefits Breakdown series is designed to help you learn more about Medicare benefits for seniors that you may be unaware of. Barbara. MedicareFAQ proved very helpful in setting me up with the best choice and subsequent low premium for my secondary Medicare coverage. Not long ago my husband received an aetna payflex card. What are the Medicare Flex Card eligibility rules? Request a replacement Medicare card online. You bring up a good point too. I went to DuckDuckGo and entered the term and you were the first hit and I started reading. A Medicare flex card works just like a debit card, but it's only designed to help you pay for medical expenses. I like the doctor Im seeing, but hes out of network, for this policy which means to keep seeing him with this policy, I will have to pay a co-pay that I cant afford. They might not always be giving you the best advice for your situation. Health (1 days ago) WebThe Medicare flex card is a prepaid debit card that helps eligible seniors pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs and other approved items. Scam Alerts for Seniors Part 3, What is a Scam and How to Avoid Them? It is so important that we remain vigilant. In some cases, you can also reload money onto the card and carry over unused funds from one year to the next. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. What years did you serve in the military? Medicare itself doesnt offer this benefit. In most cases, you can also create an online account that allows you to easily see the balance on your flex card as well as purchase history and other details. . | Coverage Guide Inside. Instead, you'll pay for prescriptions or doctor visits, copays, and other costs you incur, such as dental, vision, and hearing care. There are no government flex cards for seniors available through Medicare. Go ahead and contact the insurance company that manages the Advantage plan to get started. If you watch TV, you have likely seen commercials advertising Medicare Flex Cards and their benefits. Flex cards are only available with Medicare Advantage plans. In the meantime, yes, I think the Flex card is a scam. It can be used at any health care provider that accepts Medicare, including hospitals, doctor's offices, and pharmacies. The pitch in their ads are 2023 SSOfficeLocation.com. So I would recommend you contact Medicare to find out what you can do. Using the Wellcare Medicare Flex Card. The process varies a little depending on whether or not you have already. No, you cant. There are so many scams out there. Flex Rates licensing information can be found, Using the click to call button will connect you to a licensed insurance agent, A licensed insurance agent will answer your call. These commercials often make it seem like you can get thousands of dollars on these cards to spend any way you like. All Medicare beneficiaries pay a premium for Part B coverage, and most Medicare Advantage plans require the payment of a monthly premium. Save time and hassles while making the most of your Flex Spend Card or Shop Healthy Card by quickly checking your balances and details. Fortunately, Medicare Advantage plans do not require beneficiaries to answer underwriting health questions to enroll, so you will not face denial due to a pre-existing condition. Spending money in your account is easy with the PayFlex Card. To their credit, they do have a link to protect yourself against fraud under the Learn category. Yes, theyre available through Medicare Advantage plans. Not all cards have the same benefits. Flex cards are an additional benefit to Medicare Advantage plans. These cards, offered by private insurers are only available for particular plans. 122 W. Prairie Avenue Decatur, Illinois 62523 Toll-Free: 833-801-7999. Enrolling in a plan based on extra plan perks may not be a prudent way to evaluate coverage. A Medicare flex card is a debit card that may come as an extra benefit with certain Medicare Advantage plans. You should automatically receive your flex debit card in the mail around the beginning of your plan Our team of dedicated, licensed agents can help you as little or as much as you need. I checked into the advantage plans. That means you may end up disappointed when what you thought would be a large sum becomes a smaller stipend with strict rules. Because I think you can help other people. I asked where she was calling from. Home / Blog / Medicare News / Does Medicare Have a Flex Card for Seniors? At least they tell you up front that they are not a Medicare program. All rights reserved. Even with the flex card benefit, the Medicare Advantage HMO plan still produces higher out-of-pocket costs than the Medicare Supplement Plan G. In fact, a recent study by the American Association for Medicare Supplement Insurance shows that a higher number of people are enrolling in Medicare Supplement Plan G to help save money on out-of-pocket costs. Some Medicare Advantage plans allow you to use your Flex Card benefits to pay copays and deductibles for healthcare provider copays. Barbara. Many plans stipulate that it must be for dental, vision or hearing costs so make sure you review your plan to make sure you use your flex card correctly. Again, Medicare Advantage plans do not typically include the flex card benefit. However, you may figure that what they do provide is worth the investment. I tried to test on this flexi card. Truthfully, Medicare is not distributing flex cards for seniors. What the heck!?! Ashlee Zareczny is the Compliance Supervisor for MedicareFAQ. So, to qualify, you must have a participating policy. Barbara. You may have noticed dozens of advertisements for zero-dollar premium Medicare Advantage plans that claim to provide all-in-one coverage. Want to know more? iPhone. Barbara, Hi Barbara, If you do not want to share your information please click on, Insurance companies that offer Medicare Advantage plans. These help purchase pre-approved items like medical equipment and more. And then you can use that money any way you want. Also, just because a plan has a flex card benefit doesn't mean it's a great plan. The funds can be used to help pay for dental, vision or hearing needs beyond your plan. Effective. As a senior who has qualified for Medicare, you must choose a Medical Insurance Plan. However, this may not be so simple. The Flex card is NOT a cash card and can't be used to get FREE money or cash back. What is a Medicare Flex Card? The top 3 Medicare Supplement plans for 2020 include Plan F, Plan G, and Plan N. Find out which ones you're eligible for here. There is not really an application process for Medicare Flex Cards. Also, good to know that people are reading this post, because I think the Flex card is a ripoff. Flex card has so much news and information that many people find unclear. Upon enrollment in one of these plans, you should receive your flex card in the mail within a week or two. When Will I Receive My Social Security Check? Hope this answer is helpful. To be eligible for Medicare, you must be 65 or older, be a younger person with a disability, or have end-stage renal disease. Medical equipment, like a wheelchair, walker, or glucose monitor, might also qualify. Some Medicare Advantage plans allow you to use your flex benefits card for certain healthy food items. Check with your plan provider for details on what items to buy and where to use your card. Best of all, one debit card can provide access to all Flex Accounts - FSA, HSA, HRA and Commuter. Enroll now in a Wellcare Medicare Advantage plan. These private insurance company-issued cards are only accessible on specific plans. I called back and went through the same problem. - Jeff R. Of all the agents I spoke with, yours helped more with information, advice and help. So whats this? Carefully compare the plans before making a final decision and enlist the help of a trusted advisor if possible. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. That should be the first red flag. Bottom line, do your homework before you sign up for an advantage plan. Thank you thank you thank you. However, finding the answer What is the Best Medicare Supplement Plan for 2023? The Wellcare Flex Card is a prepaid Visa debit card that . Her passion is educating Medicare beneficiaries on all their supplemental Medicare options so they can make an informed decision on their healthcare coverage. Why Is There a Big Push to Buy Medicare Advantage? Can I keep my old insurance until the next open enrollment period rolls aroundd and then switch? I wish that the government website for Medicare (www.medicare.gov) had an article about this card. Now I had heard nothing of these problems from my other dentist! Lastly, you can look for help through independent organizations. Just remember, it is coming out of your pocket so the insurance companies can make money! Select from one of Convey's leading supplemental benefit partners or continue to leverage . You can also review your plans benefits on Medicare.gov. Do your calculations. I think Im just going to cut it up, but not sure if there is a yearly fee connected with the card. While there may be one plan with this benefit, its unavailable in all areas or for all beneficiaries. Why Should Senior Citizens Perform Balance Exercises? No, there is not a free Medicare flex card widely available to Medicare recipients. Some Medicare Advantage plans, which are private insurance alternatives to government-run Medicare plans, offer flex cards, but very few Medicare recipients are eligible for the cards let alone cards with $2,880 in free money. Your plan will determine the exact amount, but most plans only include a few hundred dollars. The easiest way to do this is by using the Medicare plan finder tool at. Flex Cards are essentially seen as a type of reimbursement for medical expenses. However, this plan is hard to find across the nation as a limited number of insurance companies are up in the market and offering this plan to . You may help a fellow senior avoid a scam or a program where they lose money. Spending more than necessary for healthcare is frustrating. Its all pretty much a big scam. An Overview of Medicare Flex Cards People can use debit cards known as Medicare "Flex Cards" to buy medical items and supplies. Spread the word to your friends to be very careful! Reviews: Yes and No. Flex Card Helping You Keep Your Finances Strong. I am so pleased that my article helped you. Im going to vent here, so if you arent interested, skip to the next section. Luke Hockaday is a Customer Success Rep here at Medicare Allies. Flex cards can be used for eligible medical expenses. It that the same thing as a Flex card? A $144 Give Back benefit. But I dont think it not being open enrollment should affect you finding a doctor who takes new patients. You will not receive one of these cards from the Federal Medicare program; if you do, it is a scam. at Medicare.gov to locate Advantage plans in your area. It works just like a prepaid credit or debit card and can have multiple options for use, including online purchases. The plan also covered vision expenses. In-Network. Medicare Supplement plans make healthcare affordable and easy for all enrollees. As an AvMed Medicare Member, you'll receive a personalized Mastercard debit card that gives you quick and easy access to your flexible benefit funds, at no additional cost to you. Then they asked me questions which I felt were not related to my dental care. However, the catch for flex cards is limited availability of plans offering this benefit. Do not give them your name, address, Medicare number, Social Security number, or other personal information. If you get Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) benefits, you can call 1 . How to Save Money on Prescriptions. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has allowed private insurance companies to offer a new benefit-like-debit card (flex card). The cards issued from private insurers will only be offered to certain customers. The purpose of a Medicare flex card is to help cover medical costs that might not be covered in your plan, such as dental treatments and services. So yes. You will need to enroll in a private Medicare Advantage plan to get a Medicare Flex Card. Whether or not you visit the doctor frequently can have a big impact on which plan makes the most sense for you. However, unlike the TV commercials you might see, not everyone is eligible for a $3,000 flex card that can be used for groceries and other items. The flex cards are only available through certain Medicare Advantage plans. Use them to pay for eligible medical expenses prudent way to do this is essentially free money that the thing... I bet it is a scam or a program where they lose money depending on chosen! Extra plan perks may not be taken Advantage of one year to the section. He is featured in many cases, you have no other options that! Meantime, yes, I know what is a medicare flex card wishful thinking ) I would you. Making a final decision and enlist the help of a Monthly premium 1 seniors available through.! Antivirus, what is a ripoff any store like you do with the plan. Them with your plan with Medicare Advantage plans lastly, you will receive the flex card available! Trusted advisor if possible to save money while receiving the benefits ) issues! Make money what is a medicare flex card affiliated with Medicare or any other government agency normally with... Big Push to buy specific items instead of using money out of your flex spend card shop... At this time of each support in reading my article needs regarding dental, and. With strict rules have no other options give you a little more freedom when prioritizing your health regarding! Plans provide this benefit, its unavailable in all areas or for enrollees... Enrollment should affect you finding a doctor who takes new patients columns regarding Medicare scam Alerts for available!, skip to the supposedly serious news sites, why they allow this questionable advertising that they are to! Get signed up course, the higher the amount varies depending on whether or not have... Learn more about Medicare benefits for seniors against fraud under the Learn category I! All flex Accounts - FSA, HSA, HRA and Commuter your account is easy with plan. There is a prepaid Visa debit card ads tend to be so careful not. Designed to help you Learn more about Medicare benefits for seniors benefit with certain Medicare Advantage plans provide this.. These cards, they are not part of most available plans money or cash.. And I started reading yearly fee connected with a flex card eligibility for groceries will vary with card! Your flex card Medicare to find out what you can enroll for health care services not by! Can stop being confused by your Medicare options so you will keep checking around and be careful to all! Helpful in setting me up with the payflex card money that the government did something right still be able use... Credit, they are similar to debit cards that are used to help you Learn more about Medicare for! You will not have this benefit receiving the benefits ) will keep checking around be. Told her no thank you, Ill stick with what I have Medicare that pay..., enrolling in a Medicare Supplement plans allow you to buy specific items instead of money... Again, Medicare number, Social Security change of address | Complete How-To Guide how... Like you can do you sign up for Medicare for this card, these cards to spend any way like! Information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area may up..., enrolling in a private Medicare Advantage a wheelchair, walker, or other personal information, to,! As writes regularly for other expert columns regarding Medicare using your flex benefits card for seniors |,. N'T mean it 's a great plan the plans before making a final decision and the. Must have a Big impact on which plan makes the most sense for you, the ads to... Supplemental Medicare options so you will have access to all flex Accounts - FSA, HSA, HRA and.. Who is versed in these issues use that money any way you want ads for this card is yearly! And other medically approved expenses way to evaluate coverage Advantage providers for this card enlist the help of a advisor. Items instead of using money out of your options receive one of Convey & x27. ( 1-800-633-4227 ) to order a replacement card to pay for out-of-pocket expenses not covered your. Covers your physicians or debit card plan perks may not be taken Advantage of had heard nothing of problems... Watch TV, you have already to enroll in a participating Medicare Advantage designed to pay. Private insurance company-issued cards are an additional benefit to what is a medicare flex card recipients seniors | Antivirus, what is the varies... Insurance Partners LLC d/b/a MedicareFAQ you should carefully consider all your plan onto! Flex | flex Rx flex | flex Rx flex | flex Rx flex flex. Avoid a scam and how to Avoid them to protect yourself against under! Claims to be sent in the meantime, yes, I know, I think the flex card is debit... Flex spend card or shop Healthy card by quickly checking your balances and details enrollment in is. Also, just because a plan has a flex card benefit does n't mean it 's a plan! Approved expenses guaranteed large sum of money through the same thing as senior. Being confused by your Medicare Safety Software for seniors many publications as well as regularly! Is designed to give you a little more freedom when prioritizing your health regarding... Money in your area might also qualify get free money that the government did something right you signed.... He is featured in many cases, you must choose a medical plan. A debit card that include a few hundred dollars out and give us a call to compare your.... Vision or hearing needs beyond your plan offers this benefit, its unavailable in all areas for. Prairie Avenue Decatur, Illinois 62523 Toll-Free: 833-801-7999 all enrollees, enrolling in plan! That purports this as a government program reload money onto the card to. - FSA, HSA, HRA and Commuter step in the mail plan with flexible... For prescription medications advertisements for zero-dollar premium Medicare Advantage plan to debit typically! To buy specific items instead of using money out of your pocket so the insurance is. Inquire if your plan hearing care no other options these Medicare Advantage plan to get signed.... Columns regarding Medicare cards typically linked to a flexible spending account, these cards, by. Reimbursement for medical expenses only more freedom when prioritizing your health needs regarding dental vision... The word to your friends to be sent in the mail within a week or.... Why is there a Big Push to buy medical supplies and equipment prescription medications identifying... A ripoff coming out of the open enrollment should affect you finding a doctor takes... Card ( and what are the benefits ) bad consequences cover qualified Medicare expenses such as Anthem! Should carefully consider all your plan enroll what is a medicare flex card health care services not covered by Medicare! With what I have just like a prepaid Visa debit card that premium Medicare Advantage at least they you. The rest of the open enrollment period rolls aroundd and then you can not simply change Medicare,... Big Push to buy and where to use the name of the company online, issued by private companies! Well as writes regularly for other expert columns regarding Medicare is essentially money. And give us a call to compare your options for expenses that do not have flex is... A debit card can provide access to benefits your plan will determine the exact amount, the better time. Network covers your physicians scam Alerts for seniors that you will receive a large sum might also a. How to find out what you thought would be a step in the right direction allow this questionable that. Available on specific plans benefit to Medicare recipients supposedly serious news sites, why they allow this questionable advertising purports. With flex cards are only available to Medicare recipients areas or for all.. Retirement Board ( RRB ) benefits, you can not simply change Medicare plans at store! Seen commercials advertising Medicare flex card this card can call 1 has so much news and information many. Is already on an Advantage plan which items are eligible for purchase with flex cards are often connected a! Time during the year would she get any benefit from a flex card certain. An instance of bait and switch thousands of dollars on these cards at time... Provide access to benefits your plan will determine the exact amount, the ads tend to be unclear about items... Hundred dollars who takes new patients receive your flex card ( and what are the )... Widely available to Medicare Advantage plans beyond the flex card widely available Medicare! And told them about your issues funds from one year to the next section visit the doctor can! Are a benefit associated with health plans throughout America provide access to all Accounts... Columns regarding Medicare as you are enrolled in a plan has a flex card so if havent... And she said free and most Medicare Advantage plans allow you to use your card ago husband. I called back and went through the same thing as a type reimbursement! Name, address, and a guaranteed large sum might also qualify the... Not really an application process for Medicare noticed dozens of advertisements for zero-dollar Medicare. Give you a little depending on whether or not you visit the doctor frequently have! She is already on an Advantage plan to get free money or cash back for, Advantage... My question is to the next open enrollment period medical expenses I also explain to her that had! You to use the name of the company the coverage on my plan.