A move—whether across town, across the country, or across the globe—can bring exciting new beginnings. But for people with Medicare, it also brings important steps to protect your coverage. Understanding what changes (and what doesn’t) can help you avoid gaps, penalties, and unnecessary stress.
Below is a clear guide to how different types of moves affect your Medicare, plus tips to keep your personal information safe along the way. (Handout from SHIP available for download.)
Moving Within Your State
A local move may seem simple, but it still affects how Medicare communicates with you and how certain plans operate.
- If you have Original Medicare: You’ll need to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) so your address stays up to date.
- If you have a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan: These plans have service areas. Contact your plan to confirm you’re still covered in your new ZIP code. If you’re not, you’ll qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to choose a new plan. Your local SHIP can help you use this SEP.
- If you have a Medigap policy: Call your Medigap insurer to ask whether your premium will change based on your new address.
Moving to Another State
A move across state lines adds a few more considerations.
Along with the steps above:
- Medigap rules vary by state. Your new state may have different Medigap protections or pricing. SHIP counselors in your new state can help you understand your options.
- Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) differ by state. Eligibility rules change when you move. Contact the SHIP in your new state for help applying.
- Extra Help may not transfer automatically. If you were automatically enrolled because of Medicaid or an MSP in your previous state, you may need to actively re-enroll. Social Security can confirm your status.
Moving Abroad
Living outside the U.S. changes your Medicare coverage significantly.
- Medicare Advantage and Part D: You must disenroll—these plans cannot cover you abroad. If you return to the U.S., you’ll have an SEP to re-enroll.
- Premium-free Part A: Keep it. If you become eligible while abroad, you can enroll through a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Part B: If you plan to visit the U.S. regularly or return someday, keeping Part B can prevent coverage gaps and late penalties. If you’re moving abroad permanently and won’t return, you may consider dropping Part B—but be aware of the consequences if you enroll later.
Medicare & Incarceration
Medicare eligibility doesn’t end when you’re incarcerated.
If you had Medicare before your arrest, you remain eligible as long as you continue paying your premiums. The correctional facility—not Medicare—covers your care during incarceration.
Upon release, Medicare resumes coverage. And if you were released after January 1, 2023 and missed an enrollment period while incarcerated, you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in premium Part A and Part B.
Protect Your Personal Information When You Move
Moving often means sharing personal details with new providers, insurers, and agencies. Stay alert to protect yourself from medical identity theft, which can lead to false medical records, denied services, and fraudulent bills.
Contact your Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) if:
- You shared your Medicare number with someone offering “free” services or equipment.
- You see charges on your MSN or EOB for services you didn’t receive.
- You receive medical supplies you never requested.
- A debt collector contacts you about a bill you don’t owe.
- Your coverage is denied because of a condition you don’t have.
Your SMP can help you identify and resolve potential fraud, errors, or abuse.
Need Help Navigating Your Move?
Your local SHIP and SMP are here to support you.
SHIP (Medicare counseling): 📞 866‑413‑5337 📧 shineinfo@aaaswfl.org 🌐 www.floridashine.org
To find a SHIP in another state: 877‑839‑2675 or www.shiphelp.org
SMP (fraud prevention): 📞 866‑413‑5337 📧 shineinfo@aaaswfl.org 🌐 www.floridashine.org
To find an SMP in another state: 877‑808‑2468 or www.smpresource.org
The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $3,000,000 with 100% funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. government.
Posted: July 29, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Medicare & Moving: What You Need to Know Before You Change Your Residence
A move—whether across town, across the country, or across the globe—can bring exciting new beginnings. But for people with Medicare, it also brings important steps to protect your coverage. Understanding what changes (and what doesn’t) can help you avoid gaps, penalties, and unnecessary stress.
Below is a clear guide to how different types of moves affect your Medicare, plus tips to keep your personal information safe along the way. (Handout from SHIP available for download.)
Moving Within Your State
A local move may seem simple, but it still affects how Medicare communicates with you and how certain plans operate.
Moving to Another State
A move across state lines adds a few more considerations.
Along with the steps above:
Moving Abroad
Living outside the U.S. changes your Medicare coverage significantly.
Medicare & Incarceration
Medicare eligibility doesn’t end when you’re incarcerated.
If you had Medicare before your arrest, you remain eligible as long as you continue paying your premiums. The correctional facility—not Medicare—covers your care during incarceration.
Upon release, Medicare resumes coverage. And if you were released after January 1, 2023 and missed an enrollment period while incarcerated, you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in premium Part A and Part B.
Protect Your Personal Information When You Move
Moving often means sharing personal details with new providers, insurers, and agencies. Stay alert to protect yourself from medical identity theft, which can lead to false medical records, denied services, and fraudulent bills.
Contact your Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) if:
Your SMP can help you identify and resolve potential fraud, errors, or abuse.
Need Help Navigating Your Move?
Your local SHIP and SMP are here to support you.
SHIP (Medicare counseling): 📞 866‑413‑5337 📧 shineinfo@aaaswfl.org 🌐 www.floridashine.org
To find a SHIP in another state: 877‑839‑2675 or www.shiphelp.org
SMP (fraud prevention): 📞 866‑413‑5337 📧 shineinfo@aaaswfl.org 🌐 www.floridashine.org
To find an SMP in another state: 877‑808‑2468 or www.smpresource.org
Posted: July 27, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Public Service Announcement: Protect Yourself from AI‑Enabled Scams
Artificial intelligence is transforming nearly every part of daily life — including how scammers operate. Across Florida and the nation, fraudsters are now using AI tools to make their schemes more convincing, more urgent, and harder to detect. At AAASWFL, we want every older adult, caregiver, and family member to stay informed and protected.
AI‑enabled deception isn’t science fiction. It’s happening now, and awareness is your best defense.
What Are AI‑Enhanced Scams?
AI‑enhanced scams use artificial intelligence to mimic voices, create realistic fake videos, and generate highly personalized messages. As the document notes, “Scammers may clone a loved one’s voice, create realistic fake videos, or generate highly personalized emails and messages.” These tactics are often layered on top of familiar fraud types — family emergencies, romance scams, or business impersonation — to remove doubt and make the scam feel real.
The goal is simple: to pressure you into acting before you have time to think.
Red Flags to Watch For
AI‑enabled scams often share the same warning signs. Stay alert if you notice:
If something feels “off,” trust your instincts.
Be Scam Smart: Steps You Can Take Today
You can reduce your risk with a few simple habits:
These steps help you stay in control — even when a scammer tries to create panic.
Where to Report a Suspected Scam
If you believe you’ve encountered an AI‑enabled scam or any type of fraud, report it immediately. The following agencies can help:
Your report could protect someone else in our community.
AAASWFL Is Here to Help
Through SHINE, SMP, Elder Abuse Prevention, and our SECURE Seniors Florida initiatives, AAASWFL is committed to empowering older adults with the knowledge and tools to stay safe. If you or someone you know needs guidance, support, or scam‑prevention education, our Elder Helpline is always available:
AAASWFL HELPLINE: 1‑866-413-ELDER (5337)
ELDERAFFAIRS.ORG
Together, we can stay informed, stay prepared, and stay protected.
Posted: July 16, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Spot, Avoid and Report Scams – Webinar Today!
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) joins other government agencies to offer a webinar focused on preventing financial harm from government imposter scams. Scammers pretend to be someone they’re not — including government agencies — to steal your money, gain access to your financial accounts, or take your personal information.
This Elder Fraud Prevention and Response Network (EFPRN) webinar will look at how to help older adults spot, avoid, and report these scams. Speakers include:
The webinar will be held:
July 16, 2026, from 2:00-3:15 Eastern Time
Click here to register.
Learn more about how to avoid government imposter scams, and help spread the word, by joining the Elder Justice Coordinating Council’s Never EVER campaign. More at ejcc.acl.gov/imposters.
Posted: June 30, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Empowering Wellness: AAASWFL’s Living Healthy Workshops for Chronic Disease Self-Management
The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP), offered by the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL), is a free, evidence-based health and wellness intervention designed to empower older adults (aged 60 and older) and individuals with disabilities to actively take charge of their health. Developed at Stanford University, this highly interactive, six-week workshop series brings together small groups of 8 to 12 participants in convenient community settings to learn practical, step-by-step strategies for managing ongoing conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.
Facilitated by a pair of trained leaders, the program guides participants through building a personalized self-management “toolbox.” Key workshop topics include action planning, problem-solving, healthy eating, appropriate medication usage, and techniques to effectively combat common symptoms like chronic pain, fatigue, isolation, and sleep disruption. Funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living through the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, AAASWFL provides this program across Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee, and Sarasota counties to measurably improve participants’ health outcomes, confidence, and overall quality of life.
You can find these classes under the name Living Healthy Workshops.
If you want to learn more about class schedules, becoming a volunteer, or facilitating a class, please reach out to: Gloria Longoria at Clorivel.Lappost@AAASWFL.org
Posted: June 30, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Spotting Government Imposter Scams
This World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, join the Elder Justice Coordinating Council, government agencies, and organizations across the country to spread the word about government and business imposter scams.
Government imposter scams are a serious problem: in 2025, the FTC received more than 375,000 reports about government imposters, with reported losses of $917 million.
These imposter scammers lie and pretend to be someone they’re not. Their goal? Trick you into giving them money, access to your financial accounts, or your personal information. They make up complicated stories about so-called emergencies so you’ll panic and act quickly before you have time to think about what to do or talk to someone you trust.
One common scam starts with an unexpected call from someone who says they’re from a well-known business, saying there’s suspicious activity on your account.
To “help” you, they transfer you to someone who says they’re from the government. This so-called helper, who claims to be from the FBI, the FTC, or some other law enforcement agency, urges you to move your money to “protect it” — maybe by transferring it to an account they give you, depositing it in a “government account” or crypto ATM for “safekeeping,” or getting cash or gold and giving it to a courier. But it’s all a lie. No one from the government will ever ask you to do these things. Only scammers will.
Other lies might involve a “suspended Social Security number” or supposed eligibility for government benefits. In all cases, that scammer will go to great lengths to convince you they’re with the government: fake caller ID or official-looking letters, for example. The agency name might be real or made up (but real-sounding), and some scammers might show you an employee ID or badge — all to seem more real. But they’re not.
To recognize and avoid a government imposter, keep these things in mind:
Talk to someone you trust if you’re worried about a problem with your account or identity — especially if the stranger says they’re from the government or the situation is serious or involves a crime. Visit ejcc.acl.gov/imposters for more on imposter scams. And if you spot an imposter scam — or any other type of scam — report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Posted: June 30, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Medicare Minute: Understanding Medicare & Medicaid – What Older Adults in SW Florida Should Know
This month’s Medicare Minute focuses on the basics of Medicaid, how it coordinates with Medicare, and where to turn for trusted help. A downloadable handout with full details is available at the end of this post.
What Is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage for people with limited income and assets. In Florida, Medicaid supports:
It also covers individuals who need nursing home care, long-term care services, or home health care. Eligibility varies by state and by program, and Florida offers several Medicaid-funded options depending on your needs.
Some people may also qualify through a Medicaid spend-down program, which allows you to deduct medical expenses from your income to meet eligibility requirements.
How Medicare Works With Medicaid
If you qualify for both programs, Medicaid can help cover costs that Medicare does not. This includes:
Watch Out for Improper Billing
If you’re enrolled in a Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program, providers cannot bill you for Medicare‑covered services. If they do, it’s considered improper billing.
You cannot waive these protections, and providers cannot ask you to pay out-of-pocket for Medicare‑covered services. If this happens, speak with your provider—many simply aren’t familiar with QMB rules.
Where to Get Help
AAASWFL’s SHINE program is here to support you with free, unbiased counseling:
For help with fraud, errors, or abuse, contact the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) at the same toll-free number.
Download the June 2026 Medicare Minute Handout
For a deeper dive into Medicaid eligibility, spend-down programs, QMB protections, and helpful contacts, download the full June 2026 Medicare Minute handout here.
This resource includes all the details covered above and is perfect for sharing with caregivers, family members, and community partners.
Last Updated: May 29, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Understanding Medicare Appeals: What to Do If Your Coverage is Denied
If Medicare denies coverage for a health service or item you need, you still have options. Both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans offer formal appeal processes that allow you to request a review of the decision. Knowing your rights—and the steps to take—can make all the difference.
You can download the full Medicare Minute handout with complete details here.
Before You File an Appeal
Before starting an appeal, take a moment to gather information and confirm whether the denial was made in error. According to the handout, “Call your health care provider to see if they made a billing mistake that caused the denial.” If no error occurred, your provider may be able to help you with the appeal or even submit one on your behalf.
It’s also important to contact Medicare or your Medicare Advantage plan to understand the reason for the denial. Your appeal letter should directly address that reason. Be sure to read all denial notices carefully—these documents include instructions and deadlines you must follow.
How to Appeal an Original Medicare Denial
If you are enrolled in Original Medicare, start by reviewing your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN). The handout explains that you should circle the denied service and complete the shaded section at the end of the MSN. Then mail your appeal to the Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) within 120 days of the date on your MSN.
How to Appeal a Medicare Advantage Denial
Medicare Advantage plans have two different appeal pathways depending on whether you have already received the service:
If You Miss the Appeal Deadline
Even if you miss the deadline, you may still be able to appeal if you can show good cause. The handout notes examples such as receiving the notice at the wrong address, being given incorrect information by Medicare, or being unable to manage paperwork due to illness. “If you think you have a good reason for not appealing on time, send your appeal as you normally would and include a clear explanation of why your appeal is late.”
Where to Get Help
You don’t have to navigate the appeals process alone. Your local SHIP and SMP programs are here to support you:
These programs can help you understand your denial, strengthen your appeal, and spot potential errors or fraud.
The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $3,000,000 with 100% funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. government.
Posted: May 28, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Medicare Fraud Prevention Week: How You Can Help Protect Yourself and Your Community
Medicare fraud isn’t just a financial issue—it’s a community issue. Each year, Medicare loses an estimated $60 billion to fraud, and the impact reaches far beyond dollars. Fraud can cost older adults their time, peace of mind, medical identity, and even their health. Families and caregivers often carry the burden too, helping loved ones recover from fraudulent activity and navigating the stress that comes with it.
That’s why Medicare Fraud Prevention Week, held annually during the week of June 5, is so important. The date is intentional—most people become eligible for Medicare at age 65, and the “6‑5” reminder helps keep fraud prevention top of mind.
At AAASWFL, we’re proud to support the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program and its mission to empower Medicare beneficiaries, families, caregivers, and community partners with the tools they need to PROTECT, DETECT, and REPORT Medicare fraud.
Medicare fraud has a devastating impact on both beneficiaries and the Medicare program. SMP programs across the country work every day to teach people how to avoid scams and safeguard their benefits.
How You Can Participate During Medicare Fraud Prevention Week
Everyone has a role to play in preventing fraud. Here’s how different groups can get involved:
Medicare Beneficiaries
Families & Caregivers
Community Partners
Health Care Professionals
Neighbors & Community Members
AAASWFL and SMP: Here to Help
The Senior Medicare Patrol is ready to support you with free, confidential assistance. SMP staff and volunteers help older adults:
We teach people how to avoid experiencing Medicare fraud. By preventing fraud from happening, this program helps individuals and protects the Medicare program for generations to come.
Medicare Fraud Prevention Week is a perfect time to start new habits, share information, and strengthen our community’s defenses against fraud. Together, we can protect the health and financial well‑being of older adults across Southwest Florida.
Join us online, June 3 to learn how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from Medicare fraud. Register today.
Request a free My Health Care Tracker, a fraud-fighting tool designed to help you track what happens at your health appointments. Contact your local SMP by calling the Helpline at 866-413-5337 or submit a Contact Request Form online.
Posted: May 1, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Understanding Medicare’s Telehealth Coverage: What You Need to Know in 2026
What Counts as Telehealth?
Telehealth is a full visit with a health care provider conducted by phone or video. It allows you to receive care without an in‑person office visit, making it easier to manage your health from home.
According to the Medicare Minute handout, telehealth can be used for services such as:
As the handout explains, “Telehealth includes certain services that you receive from a health care provider outside of an in‑person office visit.”
Telehealth vs Virtual Check-ins
It’s helpful to know the difference:
Medicare covers both, but they are not the same type of service.
Expanded Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities
Medicare’s telehealth rules changed significantly during the COVID‑19 Public Health Emergency, and many of those expanded options remain available through 2027. During this period:
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, check with your plan directly to understand its specific telehealth rules and costs.
What is Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)?
Remote patient monitoring allows providers to track certain health data—such as blood pressure, heart rate, or blood glucose—from your home. This can help reduce unnecessary office visits and support ongoing care for chronic conditions.
However, the handout notes that RPM can sometimes be misused. Watch for red flags such as:
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.
Where to Get Help
Want More Details?
You can find a convenient handout with all the information summarized here.
The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $3,000,000 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. government.
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