We depend on our doctors and healthcare providers to recommend whatever diagnostic measures, medications, procedures, or services are required to maintain or restore our health. The order of a physician or other healthcare provider may not be enough, however, to ensure your health plan will cover the costs of a specific treatment regimen or service.  For a recommended procedure, medication, treatment, or service to be … Continue reading What does medical necessity mean?

The milestone birthday of 65 opens up a whole new world of Medicare healthcare for senior citizens. The details of Medicare can be hard to unwrap, like the gift from a friend who always uses too much wrapping tape. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas want to help you celebrate and not complicate this big birthday and the health benefits that await as you … Continue reading Medicare before 65: what to do before your birthday

Mental health is integral to our overall health, especially during the winter. Colder and shorter days can bring with them various mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and even the “winter blues,” also referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).  Day-to-day life can be impacted when we experience mental health issues like depression or anxiety. Taking extra care of yourself during winter is vital for … Continue reading 7 ways to improve your mental health this winter

Whoops! Now that open enrollment has come to an end, you just realized that you missed signing up. If this is you, don’t panic. You are not alone. What happens if you miss open enrollment depends on whether you need traditional health insurance or Medicare. But in either situation, you have options. Here is everything you should know. Traditional health insurance Traditional health insurance is … Continue reading I missed open enrollment. Now what?

The Medicare maze requires some new navigating in 2023 with added benefits and lower costs for some customers. Even the word “enrollment” has many Medicare meanings. What is the General Enrollment period for Medicare, and how is it different from Open Enrollment? The team at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas offers direct services and guidance through the maze to get the best healthcare … Continue reading What happens with Medicare in January?

Getting a good night’s sleep becomes even more important as we age, and our bodies need the time to rest, rejuvenate and heal. At the same time, up to 70% of people over the age of 65 have ongoing sleep challenges. As many as half of those might have an undiagnosed condition. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is here to support sleep cycles … Continue reading Medicare and sleep: what’s covered under your plan – and what isn’t

Does Medicare cover dental care for senior citizens? Are you taking care of your dental health and scheduling regular exams, x-rays, and cleanings?  According to the 2022 Kansas Oral Health Report, approximately two-thirds of Kansas adults visit the dentist, and one-third of older adults have lost six or more teeth due to tooth decay or gum disease. If you’re overdue for a trip to the … Continue reading Medicare insurance and dental care for seniors