We have compiled the most frequently asked questions about Health Care below. If we have not answered your questions, please feel free to send us an email at inquiry@chbenevolent.org, or call us at 617-734-5600.
I have lots of questions about signing up for Medicare, where should I start?
Two of our blogs that may be helpful are: Signing up for Medicare and How can Boomers learn more about Medicare?, or visit the Medicare Resource Links of this website. In addition, the U.S. government site, Medicare.gov is a great resource for all questions regarding Medicare; AARP.org is also a resource.
What must I do in order to enroll in Medicare?
Please click here to visit the Enrolling in Medicare blog for a helpful explanation.
Where can I find the Christian Science care facilities that accept Medicare and Medicaid?
There are several places to find Christian Science nursing facilities that accept Medicare and Medicaid. The AOCSN (Association of Organizations for Christian Science Nursing) has an interactive map that allows you to find the nearest facility and its services. The national accrediting body for Christian Science nursing facilities and organizations, The Commission, has a list of accredited facilities that are Medicare and Medicaid facilities.
For a Medicare Part A inpatient stay, how much does the patient pay?
For individuals who qualify for Medicare Part A in a religious non-medical health care institution (RNHCI) such as the Benevolent Association, there is a one-time deductible in the first 60 days. For the next 30 days, (61-90) there is a daily co-insurance. The individual must continue to require skilled Christian Science nursing care to qualify for Medicare benefits.
Why would a Christian Scientist opt for Medicare Part B when Part B isn't used at Christian Science nursing facilities?
The following blog should help answer this question: Does a Christian Scientist need Part B?
If I don't take Original Medicare Part B when I turn 65, but want to get it later, is there a penalty?
Yes, there is a penalty. If you do not sign up for Medicare benefits during your initial eligibility period, the cost of Medicare Part B will go up 10% for each 12-month period that you could have had Medicare Part B but didn’t take it. Please click here for a blog regarding the Part B late penalty.
Is there anything one could do to make sure he/she is NOT automatically enrolled in Medicare?
I am not aware of any process to NOT be automatically enrolled in Original Medicare Parts A & B. Until several years ago, one had to enroll in Part B and of course that has now changed to an automatic enrollment to make it easier for the vast majority of folks who do want to have Part B. Because there is a cost to Part B and because Part B cannot be used at RNHCIs (religious non-medical health care institutions) many Christian Scientists give more thought to whether to keep Part B.
What insurance companies provide Medigap policies?
As a general rule, all Medigap policies, unless specifically or implicitly excluding the possibility of care at a Christian Science nursing facility, will cover this type of care. The Medicare.gov website is a great resource. Click here to find a list of Medigap policies available to you in your area.
Is it true that Part B does not cover Christian Science practitioners but Medigap does if you are in a RNHCI?
Neither cover Christian Science practitioners. Original Medicare Part B does not cover Christian Science practitioners and neither does a Medigap policy. Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policies only cover what Original Medicare Part A & B will cover and Christian Science practitioners have never been covered by Medicare.
Why should a Christian Scientist have a health care proxy?
This is a very important question, especially for Christian Scientists. Please click on this link for a comprehensive answer: Do you have a health care proxy?
What insurance companies cover Christian Science care?
Please visit the Health Insurance with Christian Science Benefits section of this website.
How can I tell if my current insurance policy covers Christian Science benefits?
Over the years we have seen so many folks who have paid premiums on healthcare policies that they “think” have CS benefits when they do not. Click here for some guidance.
Under health care reform, will a Christian Scientist be required to buy health insurance if not already covered?
Please visit the blog, Religious Exemptions to Healthcare Reform, for an explanation.
