1. Original Medicare Cost Increases
In 2025, premiums and deductibles for Parts A and B of Original Medicare rose. The annual deductible for Part A increased from $1,632 to $1,676, while the deductible for Part B rose from $240 to $257. While most seniors do not pay a premium for Part A, they do for Part B. The standard monthly premium for Part B rose from $174.70 in 2024 to $185.00 in 2025, with high earners potentially paying up to $628.90 per month for this coverage. Both parts of Original Medicare also include copays, which can further add to your out-of-pocket costs.
2. Limit on Out-of-Pocket Prescription Costs
A positive change for Medicare recipients in 2025 was the introduction of a $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for those enrolled in Part D plans. This cap includes payments made by the individual towards their medications, as well as contributions from sources like Medicare’s Extra Help program. Once the annual cap is reached, there are no additional copays for covered drugs for the remainder of the year.
3. Changes to Telehealth Access
In 2024, Medicare beneficiaries had access to telehealth services from any location, but in 2025, access is generally restricted to offices or medical facilities in rural areas. However, exceptions exist for specific services such as ESRD visits for home dialysis, stroke symptom diagnosis and treatment, substance use disorder treatment, mental health services, diabetes management training, and medical nutrition therapy, which can still be accessed remotely.
4. Medicare Training Coverage for Caregivers
Starting in 2025, Medicare will cover the cost of training for caregivers when deemed necessary by healthcare providers. Coverage extends to individual or group training sessions, even in the absence of the beneficiary. Training must align with the needs of the recipient’s care plan, subject to the standard Part B deductible and copay.
5. New Health Program for Postal Service Personnel
Effective January 1, current and former U.S. Postal Service employees transitioned from the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program to the Postal Service Health Benefits Program. Affected individuals should have received new insurance cards and program details by mail. If there are questions regarding the interaction of this program with Medicare coverage, the plan carrier should be contacted for clarification.
These updates may not all directly impact every individual currently, but they are important to be aware of. For queries on coverage specifics, referring to plan documents or contacting the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is recommended.
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