SURS Facts – Medicare
General Information
SURS does not counsel Medicare eligibility or the benefit(s) provided. Please contact Medicare and CMS to receive the most current and accurate information.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is health insurance through the federal government for people age 65 or older, under age 65 with certain disabilities, and any age with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant).
Different Parts of Medicare
The different parts of Medicare help cover specific services if you meet certain conditions. Medicare has the following parts:
- Part A – Hospital Insurance
- Part B – Medical Insurance
- Part C – Medicare Advantage Plans, like an HMO or PPO
- Part D – Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage
What Does SURS Need?
SURS will need a photocopy of you and your dependent’s Medicare Card. If not eligible, SURS will need a letter from Social Security stating ineligibility, if:
- You or your dependent have Medicare
- You or your dependent are age 65 or older
- You or your dependent are within two months of your 65th birthday
Failure to provide above Medicare documents will result in SURS benefits being delayed for payment.
Who to Contact?
- Central Management Services (CMS)
Medicare COB Unit
801 S. Seventh St.
PO Box 19208
Springfield, IL 62703-9208 - Call CMS at (217) 782-7007
Medicare information is available for you 24 hours a day-every day. To find out more about Medicare:
- Visit www.medicare.gov
- Call (800) MEDICARE, (800) 633-4227
The federal government also publishes an official handbook regarding Medicare. This official government handbook, Medicare and You, provides important information about:
- Your Medicare benefits
- Choosing a health plan that’s right for you
- Your Medicare privacy rights
The Medicare handbook is available for download here.