Most seniors and some younger people with disabilities get Medicare, health insurance sponsored by the government. And many belong to Medicare HMOs.

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In a Medicare HMO, the government pays your HMO a fixed amount each month. You still pay a monthly premium for your share of Medicare Part B.

In most ways, Medicare HMOs are like other HMOs. You must use the providers in the plan's network, and you need approval from the plan or your doctor before you get most services. When you have a problem, you have the right to file a complaint and request a review of your HMO's decisions.

Do you have questions or need help with your Medicare? For free help, call HICAP, the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program.
To change HMOs, just fill out an enrollment form at the HMO you want to join. It can take about a month to join. Do not drop your old plan until your new plan says you are covered. For information, call 1-800-Medicare or Cal Medicare.
Leaving a Medicare HMO is called disenrolling. There are three ways to disenroll. You can send a request in writing to your HMO. You can visit your Social Security office and fill out a disenrollment form. Or you can call 1-800-Medicare.
Before you disenroll, decide whether you want to join another HMO or get traditional Medicare.
If you return to traditional Medicare, you may be able to buy a Medigap policy. Medigap covers some of the services that Medicare doesn't cover. Be sure to meet the enrollment deadlines for Medigap. Call HICAP.

Prescription Drugs

To compare prescription drug benefits, call Cal Medicare.
If you go to a pharmacy that accepts Medi-Cal, ask about drug discounts for Medicare members.
There may be a yearly limit on what your HMO will pay for drugs.