Check out what’s new in Medicare this year to help you manage your overall health and wellness.
Lowering your prescription drug costs
Because of President Biden’s new prescription drug law, in 2025, your yearly out-of-pocket drug costs will be capped at $2,000. If you have Medicare drug coverage (Part D) and your drug costs are high enough to reach this cap, you don’t have to pay a copayment or coinsurance for Part D drugs for the rest of the calendar year. Starting in 2025, you’ll also have the option of spreading your drug costs across monthly payments throughout the year.
Managing your mental health and wellbeing
Medicare covers expanded mental health care, like intensive outpatient program services in certain locations and services from marriage and family therapists and mental health counselors. During your yearly “Wellness” visit, your health care provider can also use a health risk assessment to better understand your social needs and refer you for appropriate services and support.
More resources for caregivers
Medicare covers additional caregiver support, like training that helps your caregiver better care for you and relief when they’re caring for family members in hospice care. Also, some people living with dementia and their caregivers may be able to get more support though a new pilot program.
Postal service health benefits program
Starting January 1, 2025, U.S. Postal Service employees, retirees and their families will get coverage through a new benefits program instead of through the Federal Employee Health Benefits program.
Changes to telehealth coverage
You can get telehealth services at any location in the U.S., including your home, through December 31, 2024. After this period, you must be in an office or medical facility located in a rural area for most telehealth services. However, you can still get certain telehealth services (like for mental and behavioral health) in your home no matter where you live. To view a digital copy of the full 2025 Medicare Handbook, visit Medicare.gov/publications, or contact Elder source’s SHINE Program for Medicare help and advice. SHINE is a program of the Department of Elder Affairs. Call 1-888-242-4464 for assistance with your Medicare coverage.
