Senior Care FAQs for Patients

At Greater Good Health, we only serve older adults, which means that every detail of your care – from the chair you sit in our patient lounge to the specific services we offer like foot & nail care – are designed to meet the unique needs of seniors. In addition to providing an experience tailored healthcare for seniors, we are hyper focused on timely access and quality of care, which is why we offer same- or next-day appointments that aren’t rushed and a whole-person approach that treats the whole you, not just your symptom or health condition.

We are in-network with traditional Medicare as well as some Medicare Advantage plans, including Humana.  If we are not in-network with your Medicare plan, we would still love the opportunity to care for you, and you may be eligible to switch your plan. Below are some specific times when you can join or switch your Medicare plan:

• Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): You can enroll in a Medicare plan three months before or up to three months after your 65th birthday.
• Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): Every year, existing Medicare beneficiaries can change their plan during this period, which typically runs from mid-October to early December.
• Special Enrollment Period (SEP): If you move or if you lose other insurance coverage, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period during which you can enroll in or switch Medicare plans.

When it comes to caring for older adults, we know that experience matters, which is why all of our teams are highly-educated, highly-trained, and have specific experience in caring for aging adults. Your care team will include a primary care provider (either a physician or Nurse Practitioner), medical assistant, and Patient Liaison. As part of our care coordination services, we will refer to and work together with any specialists to make sure your treatment is meeting your needs.

Yes, you can absolutely bring someone else with you to your appointment. We know that family members and caregivers are an essential part of achieving optimal health and supporting our patients. We welcome them at your appointments.

Medicare is an essential federal health insurance program that provides coverage for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with certain disabilities or end-stage renal disease. It offers various parts, including Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (prescription drug coverage). With Medicare, you gain access to vital healthcare services and support that cater to your specific needs, promoting your overall well-being.

Medicare is divided into four parts: Part A, which covers hospital insurance; Part B, which covers medical insurance; Part C, which refers to Medicare Advantage plans; and Part D, which provides prescription drug coverage. Each part serves a specific purpose and offers different services, ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage for individuals enrolled in Medicare.

Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, is an alternative to traditional Medicare offered by private insurance companies. It provides comprehensive healthcare coverage, combining the benefits of Parts A and B, and often includes additional services such as prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and hearing benefits. With Medicare Advantage, you can enjoy the convenience of having all your healthcare needs under one plan, often with the option of preferred provider networks and coordinated care.

The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) for Medicare begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after. Each year, you have the opportunity to review and make changes to your current Medicare coverage during Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which runs from October 15th to December 7th. However, certain circumstances may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) outside of the AEP, such as losing employer coverage or moving out of your plan’s service area. Understanding the enrollment periods and timelines is crucial to ensure you have timely access to the benefits and coverage you need.

The cost of a primary care appointment under Medicare or Medicare Advantage can vary depending on several factors, such as the specific plan you have and the services provided during the appointment. Generally, under Medicare, Part B, you will pay a yearly deductible and a 20% coinsurance for the Medicare-approved amount. Medicare Advantage plans may have different cost structures, including copayments for primary care visits. It’s important to review your plan’s details or contact your plan directly to understand the cost-sharing requirements for doctor’s appointments. Luckily, the Greater Good Health team is well-versed in the intricacies of Medicare Advantage, and we can help you understand exactly what your coverage entails.

Primary care is an essential part of health maintenance, prevention, and management of chronic conditions. Primary care providers (also known as general practitioners or family doctors) are typically the first line of defense against illness, providing preventive care for seniors and treatment for acute illnesses and injuries, as well as routine screenings appropriate to your age and gender. Primary care for seniors includes regular wellness visits and physical exams, as well as vital tests like blood pressure monitoring and cholesterol checks. In addition to illness prevention and management, primary care providers also help seniors manage their medications and chronic health conditions like diabetes, COPD, and heart disease.

As we age, our risk of chronic medical conditions increases. Regular primary care visits help seniors stay informed about their overall health and catch potential problems early when they’re easier to treat. Primary care providers can also provide referrals to specialists as needed and manage medications for optimum effectiveness. Individuals over the age of 65 should plan on having a comprehensive annual physical exam that includes a review of medical history, a discussion of lifestyle modifications, counseling on health maintenance, and a review of any new medications. Regular primary care visits can help seniors stay healthy and continue doing the things they love.

During your appointment, you will meet your entire care team inclusive of your primary care provider and medical assistant. Your primary care provider will review your medical history and current health status, discuss any ongoing or new symptoms you are experiencing, perform any necessary examinations or diagnostic tests, and provide advice on medications or lifestyle changes to manage any conditions you may have. Your provider may also recommend any necessary follow-up visits or refer you to a specialist for further treatment. At Greater Good Health, our care team also includes a Patient Liaison (PAL) who will be available to help connect you with community resources and support you in navigating health coverage and benefits.

Choosing a healthcare provider can be a crucial decision, as they will be your first point of contact for all your healthcare needs. One way to start your search is by asking for recommendations from friends and family. You can also check with your health plan to see which providers within their network are available in your area. Once you have a list of potential providers, take the time to research their backgrounds, including education, experience, and specialties. It’s important to choose a provider with whom you feel comfortable and can easily communicate. Before scheduling your first appointment, don’t be afraid to ask questions about their practice and approach to patient care. Ultimately, finding the right primary care provider can improve your overall health and well-being.