Can Caregivers Help a Loved One Enroll in Medicare?

As caregivers, we become resources for our loved ones in so many ways. Often, as our loved ones age, their healthcare becomes more complicated and staying on top of their Medicare coverage becomes crucial. Caregivers are a lifeline to help beneficiaries navigate their Medicare enrollment and benefits each year.

If you're wondering where to start or how to help a parent or loved one enroll in Medicare, know that you’re not alone! We help caregivers support their loved ones daily. One of the most common questions we receive is:

“Can caregivers legally help a loved one enroll in Medicare?”

The short answer is: “Yes!” But it’s important to know the specifics.

An Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information Release Form Must be Completed

An Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information form must be completed.

Helping a loved one sign-up for Medicare involves their protected health information. So, you'll need to make sure that you are authorized to speak on their behalf about their healthcare. They will need to complete an Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information form to give you the authority to discuss their healthcare with other individuals with Medicare.

The document is an essential first step to being able to coordinate your loved one's Medicare needs. Without this form, a Medicare representative will be unable to speak directly with you regarding your loved one's plan and benefit options. While completion of the Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information Release Form is helpful for 1-800-MEDICARE interactions, this authorization alone does not establish legal authority to complete an enrollment; and, in most cases, a valid POA or other applicable state-recognized legal authority is required for an individual to make Medicare enrollment decisions on behalf of another person.

Once You’re Authorized, You Need to Do Your Homework

Having open lines of communication helps to ensure that your loved one gets the Medicare coverage that best suits their needs. As their caregiver, you will need to talk with them to understand what their health needs are. Knowing what they are hoping to get out of their Medicare plan can help direct your focus to the aspects that will best aid them.

It’s important to know the following about their healthcare needs:

• Regular prescriptions
• Preferred physicians
• Specialists they see
• Budget

Preparing to Meet with a Medicare Advisor on Your Loved One’s Behalf

When it's time to speak to a licensed agent regarding your loved one's benefits, make sure that you have all the pertinent information at hand. You will be asked to provide specific personal, financial, and medical information on the individual's behalf.

To ensure that this process goes smoothly, work hand-in-hand with your loved one and their medical providers to ensure that you have the big picture of their current healthcare.

Work with a Knowledgeable Advisor

There's a lot of information out there about Medicare. Gain peace of mind by working with a Medicare Agent. Licensed, local agents understand the ins and outs of Medicare and streamline your efforts to get your loved one an appropriate plan.

 Final Takeaway

Are you helping a loved one navigate Medicare? Our experienced advisors are here to walk alongside you on this journey. Schedule a call today.