At YWCA Health Access, we believe that access to health care is a right, and that an important component of health care access is having coverage.

Across the country and in Washington state, the number of people 65 and over is growing. The 65+ population in Washington is expected to be 13.9 next year, and is expected to rise to 18.1 by 2030. As our population ages, it becomes more and more important that seniors understand the services available to them and know how to access them. Most people 65 and older have at least one medical health condition – like diabetes or high blood pressure – so it becomes especially important to receive regular health care to stay on top of these chronic conditions.

MyLocalHealthGuide.com recently published information on Medicare and what is important to know as you approach age 65. Below are some key pieces of information about Medicare. Read the full, original article here, and pass on the information to others in your life who may benefit.

Remembering the difference among Medicare plans can be difficult. Here are the different options available.

• Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is a federal insurance program that offers basic coverage for hospital care and medical expenses and no coverage for prescriptions. Beneficiaries typically must pay a premium for Part B coverage. Many find they need additional coverage for services not covered by Original Medicare.
• Medicare Supplement plans pay some of the costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, including deductibles and coinsurance. Beneficiaries must pay an additional premium.
• A Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (PDP), or Medicare Part D, provides prescription drug coverage, helps lower prescription drug expenses and protects against higher costs in the future. Beneficiaries must pay an additional premium.
• Medicare Advantage (Part C) typically provides extra benefits, services and often prescription drug coverage. Beneficiaries may or may not pay an additional premium.

Did you know there are certain times when you can enroll in Medicare plans? To get coverage starting in 2015, seniors must review plan options and enroll during the window October 15-December 7, 2014. But if you are turning 65 before October, you’re able to enroll earlier in the year. There’s a special Initial Enrollment Period when you can enroll: this window includes the three months before your 65th birthday, the month of your birthday, and the three months following.

For more information about Medicare, how to enroll and other considerations, check out these resources:

• Medicare.gov
• MyLocalHealthGuide.com’s Turning 65? Know your Medicare options – Guest column
• 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227): For general Medicare information, ordering Medicare booklets, and information about health plans
• Medicare Benefits
• How To Apply Online For Just Medicare