What is New in 2021 for Medicare
1. Costs
- Part A deductible for each hospital stay: $1,484 (vs. $1,408 in 2020).
- Part B monthly premium: $148.50 (vs. $144.60); Part B annual deductible: $203 (vs. $198).
- Part D prescription drug plan average monthly premium: $30.50 (vs. $32.74).
2. Expanded telehealth
- All beneficiaries can get virtual check-ins with doctors and other health care providers.
3. Medicare Advantage expands
- More Medicare Advantage plans are offering extra services, including meals at home, rides to health appointments, safety improvements to homes and nutrition counseling.
4. Dealing with Coronavirus
- Medicare will pay for COVID-19 testing, and coronavirus vaccines will be free to beneficiaries.
5. Medicare Compare website
- The program has created a one-stop online tool to help enrollees compare medical providers, hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities.
6. Fewer Medigap plans
- In 2021, Medigap plans C and F are no longer available for newly-eligible Medicare beneficiaries. Those who have those plans can keep them.