Is Florida Blue Medicare or Medicaid?
Florida Blue only offers Medicare plans, not Medicaid. It's important to distinguish these two as they cater to different population segments and are governed by different rules and regulations.
- Medicare is a federal program that provides health coverage for individuals over 65 and certain individuals under 65 with disabilities.
- Medicaid is a state and federal program designed to provide health coverage for low-income individuals of all ages and families.
Florida Blue is the trade name of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida, a private health insurance provider that offers Medicare policies, including Medicare Advantage plans.
What Is Florida Blue Medicare?
Florida Blue, a part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, is Florida's leading health insurance provider.
Florida Blue Medicare provides coverage for seniors and individuals with disabilities, offering a variety of plans, including:
- Medicare Advantage plans
- Supplement plans (Medigap)
- Prescription drug plans (Part D)
- Private insurance plans
These plans suit different health needs and budgets and provide access to a vast network of doctors, specialists, and hospitals. From preventative care to specialized treatments, Florida Blue Medicare aims to ensure its members receive the necessary care and services to maintain optimal health.
What Is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides healthcare coverage for low-income individuals with limited resources. Florida residents must meet specific income guidelines to qualify for the program, which is funded by the federal government and the state of Florida. Many different Medicaid plans are available, including Medicaid Managed Care (offered through private insurers).
Medicaid can help by:
- Covering doctor visits and hospital stays
- Providing prescription drug coverage
- Offering long-term care services
- Assisting with certain medical equipment and supplies, such as wheelchairs or glucose monitors
Differences Between Medicare and Medicaid
While both Medicare and Medicaid offer health coverage options, they cater to different populations. Here are some key differences between the two:
- Eligibility: Medicare is available for individuals 65 years or older, those with certain disabilities, and individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Medicaid is only available for low-income earners, children and pregnant women, elderly individuals, and disabled individuals.
- Funding: Medicare is funded by the federal government and social security taxes, while Medicaid receives funding from state and federal governments.
- Coverage: While both programs offer coverage for healthcare services, Medicare is more focused on providing coverage for medically necessary services. Medicaid covers a broader range of services that cater to low-income individuals' specific needs.
- Costs: Medicare typically requires monthly premiums, deductibles, and co-payments for services. In contrast, Medicaid generally has no monthly premiums but requires small co-payments for certain services.
What Is Dual Enrollment?
Florida Blue offers Dual Special Needs Plans (DSNP) for individuals eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid programs. These plans combine the benefits of these two programs, providing comprehensive coverage at an affordable cost.
Dual enrollment can help:
- Cover medical expenses not covered by either program
- Coordinate care between different providers and services
- Reduce out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs
How to Enroll in a Healthcare Plan
Enrolling in Florida Blue Medicare
Enrollment in Florida Blue Medicare plans is usually done during the Annual Election Period (AEP), which runs from October 15th to December 7th each year. During this time, individuals can review, change, or enroll in a new Medicare plan. However, if you're new to Medicare, you also have a seven-month Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) that begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after you turn 65. The AEP and IEP are the best times to enroll if possible. Visit Florida Blue's website to enroll.
Enrolling in Medicaid
Enrolling in Medicaid in Florida involves a different process. You'll need to apply through the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) (or through the Social Security Administration if you're 65 or older or have a disability).
To apply online, visit the ACCESS Florida website and click 'Apply For Benefits'. You'll need to create an account if you don't have one already. Once you have an account, you can fill out the online application. The form requires detailed income and financial information, so be prepared to provide it.
You can also apply by phone by calling the Florida DCF at 1-866-762-2237 or visit a local Community Partner Network location if you need in-person assistance. Be sure to bring proof of income, identity, and Florida residency.
What’s a Rich Text element?
What’s a Rich Text element?The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.
The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.Static and dynamic content editing
Static and dynamic content editingA rich text element can be used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!
A rich text element can be used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!How to customize formatting for each rich text
How to customize formatting for each rich textHeadings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.
Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.FAQs
Yes, you can be eligible and enrolled in both programs, known as dual eligibility. In this case, Medicare will typically be your primary insurance provider, and Medicaid will provide coverage for services not covered by Medicare.
You do not have to re-enroll in your health plan yearly, as it automatically renews. Nonetheless, reviewing your plan each year during the Annual Election Period is recommended to ensure it still meets your needs.
You can disenroll from a Florida Blue plan and enroll in Medicaid anytime. However, you must meet specific low-income requirements to qualify for Medicaid.
Yes, your coverage and eligibility can change based on factors such as income, residency, and changes in your health condition. It’s important to report any changes in your circumstances to your provider to ensure your coverage remains uninterrupted and matches your needs.
Eligibility for a Dual Special Needs plan requires that you are simultaneously qualified for Medicare and Medicaid benefits. This typically means you are 65 or older, or have a qualifying disability, and meet the state's income and resource criteria for Medicaid. To confirm your eligibility, you can contact Florida Blue directly or consult a Medicaid office in Florida.
Or enter your zip code to shop online
