Medicare Smarts Self-Diagnosis

Take our 20-question quiz to gauge your familiarity with the basics of Medicare. When you've finished, you can decide from your score whether you understand the basics well enough to make informed enrollment decisions.

We'll also show you the right answers and point you to information that can help clear up any confusion you might still have.

1

As a Medicare recipient, you are allowed to have prescription drug coverage through both a Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) and a Medigap plan.

True
False

2

If you have not paid into the Medicare system through payroll taxes for at least 40 quarters, you are not eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A.

True
False

3

Medicare supplement insurance and Medigap coverage are the same thing.

True
False

4

All primary care physicians must accept your Medicare card.

True
False

5

Starting in 2011, Medicare enrollees will have access to free preventive care from Medicare.

True
False

6

If you buy a Medigap policy during your Medigap enrollment period, you can’t be denied Medigap coverage or be charged more for a past medical condition.

True
False

7

If you don’t enroll in Medicare Part B coverage during your initial enrollment period, you will be penalized with higher Part B premiums later on.

True
False

8

If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can purchase a Medigap policy to cover Medicare Advantage expenses, such as copayments.

True
False

9

By law, Original Medicare must cover your health care expenses while you’re traveling outside the United States and its territories.

True
False

10

Anyone who receives Medicare health coverage is eligible for Part D prescription drug coverage.

True
False

11

Medicare Savings Programs may help pay Original Medicare premiums if you meet income requirements.

True
False

12

If a prescription drug you need is not on your prescription drug plan, you can switch to a plan with the drug you need at any time.

True
False

13

Medicare’s home health care benefit will cover all skilled nursing and home health aide care expenses.

True
False

14

You are entitled to a one-time free physical exam during the first year that you have Medicare Part B.

True
False

15

When you enroll in a Medigap policy, you get a 30-day trial period, during which you can cancel the plan and get a full refund.

True
False

16

If you’re in good health and do not take any prescription drugs, it won’t be a problem to wait to enroll in prescription drug coverage.

True
False

17

If Medicare doesn’t cover a service you need, you can file an appeal to Medicare.

True
False

18

If you’re not receiving Social Security benefits when you become eligible for Medicare, you will not be automatically enrolled and must apply.

True
False

19

You must sign up for Part D prescription drug coverage within three months after you start receiving Medicare Part A or B or you will pay a late penalty.

True
False

20

Your Medigap rates should not increase as you grow older.

True
False