I am a member of a federally recognized tribe here in Arizona. I receive all my medical needs through the Indian Health Service at no cost. Do I still have to have Medicare?

Question

Larry Dalton · Accepted Answer

IHS, Indian Health Services, is not health insurance, and it is only available at tribal clinics throughout their nations. Working with many Native Americans in Oklahoma, I have seen that having Medicare alongside the IHS can help provide healthcare providers and specialists outside their IHS clinics and hospitals. Some may find that having this dual coverage will give them the best Healthcare anywhere in the USA.

Answered by Larry Dalton on April 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK & TX

Answered by Larry Dalton Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven Bleicher · Answer

Since it would make no sense to pick up an added cost for a plan with Medicare, you are not expected to pick up the costly Part B monthly premium. However, ask your Indian Health Service if they know that picking up the TOTALLY FREE Part A (in-patient hospital) is a wise decision since a full-fledged hospital has much more equipment to be used to save your life.

Answered by Steven Bleicher on April 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Fred Manas · Answer

While receiving care through the Indian Health Service (IHS) at no cost, you are not automatically required to have Medicare. However, if you are 65 or older, or have a disability that qualifies you for Medicare, you can still enroll in Medicare and it can work alongside IHS to provide comprehensive coverage.

Answered by Fred Manas on April 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY, CT, DC & 7 other states

Answered by Fred Manas Medicare Insurance Agent

Tony Hardwick · Answer

No, in that case Medicare isn't necessary, but they are eligible to enroll as long as they meet standard eligibility requirements. Tribal members can choose to enroll in Medicare and use it along with IHS care for services not available through IHS.

Answered by Tony Hardwick on April 28, 2025

Agent Licensed in GA, AZ, CA & 15 other states

Answered by Tony Hardwick Medicare Insurance Agent

Gabrielle Sones · Answer

No, it's not mandatory, but it's still advised to go ahead and enroll when you are eligible. If you decide to enroll later on there could me penalties.

Patrick Stinson · Answer

While receiving care through the Indian Health Service (IHS) at no cost, you are still eligible to enroll in Medicare. Medicare is a separate federal health insurance program for individuals 65 and older, or those younger with certain disabilities. 
Here's why it's beneficial to have both:
Expanded Coverage:
Medicare can provide additional benefits and coverage, especially for specific medical needs not always covered by IHS. 
Flexibility:
Medicare allows you to access specialists and other providers outside of IHS facilities, according to Healthline. 
Financial Stability:
Medicare can provide financial protection against unexpected high medical costs, says Medigap.com. 
Tribal Support:
Many tribes encourage or support their members to enroll in Medicare. 
Key Considerations:
Enrollment:
You can enroll in Medicare regardless of your IHS eligibility. 
Cost:
While Medicare itself can have premiums, some plans offer lower or zero-cost options, according to MedicareFAQ. 
Coordinating Care:
Your IHS provider can help you understand how Medicare and IHS work together. 
Additional Insurance:
You might also consider supplementary insurance or a Medicare Advantage plan for more comprehensive coverage, according to MedicareFAQ. 
For more information and guidance, consult your IHS provider or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Michael Hixson · Answer

Let me ask you a question, are you ever in need of care and not be close to a Tribal Health Facility? I bet the answer is Yes. I am Michael Hixson and I am Cherokee and live in the Oklahoma City Metro Area and the closest Indian Hospital is in Ada, Oklahoma over an hour away. Yes, you could go to a local Emergency Hospital but you better submit your claim within 72 hours to Indian Health Services and then hope that it gets approved. With having Original Medicare, you have more options for your health care and have peace of mind that you won't be paying 100% of the bill. If you are Native and need help with your Medicare Options, give me a call. I can explain your unique situation.

Answered by Michael Hixson on April 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK, AR & TX

Answered by Michael Hixson Medicare Insurance Agent

Arsenio Sallie · Answer

If you receive healthcare through the Indian Health Service (IHS), you are not required to enroll in Medicare. However, there are several reasons why enrolling in Medicare might still be beneficial:

1. **Expanded Coverage:** Medicare can provide access to a broader range of healthcare providers and services that might not be available through IHS alone.

2. **Coordination of Benefits:** If you have Medicare, it can be used in conjunction with IHS services. Medicare can cover services outside of what IHS provides, potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs for certain treatments.

3. **Future Needs:** Enrolling in Medicare when you first become eligible can prevent late enrollment penalties if you decide to use Medicare services in the future.

4. **Access to Specialists:** Medicare can provide access to specialists and facilities that may not be available through IHS.

5. **Prescription Drug Coverage:** Medicare Part D offers prescription drug coverage, which might be beneficial if you require medications not covered by IHS.

It's important to weigh your healthcare needs and consider how Medicare might complement the services you receive through IHS. Consulting with a benefits coordinator at your tribal health facility or a Medicare advisor can help you make an informed decision based on your special situation!

I am a member of a federally recognized tribe here in Arizona. I receive all my medical needs through the Indian Health Service at no cost. Do I still have to have Medicare?

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I am a member of a federally recognized tribe here in Arizona. I receive all my medical needs through the Indian Health Service at no cost. Do I still have to have Medicare?

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