Finding a doctor that takes your insurance

In 2009, the Washington Post published an article describing the website zocdoc, where patients can search and schedule appointments for doctors, using search criteria including specialty and insurance accepted.  Patients can search for doctors throughout the US.  The site even identifies physicians that take Medicare and Medicaid.

Online Health Insurance Screening Tool

New federal website allows seniors and others to screen for health insurance options  The website also includes information on how health reform will change health insurance options.  A video tour of the new website is available here.

SSI/SSDI Compassionate Allowance for Early Alzheimer’s

In February 2010, the Social Security Administration added early-onset Alzheimer’s and 37 other medical conditions to its list of compassionate allowances. Alzheimer’s Association’s FAQ sheet explains SSDI, SSI, and how compassionate allowances can help a patient qualify for these public benefits, and potentially for Medicare or Medicaid. Alzheimer’s Association’s checklist and instructions on how to [...]

Public Benefits Online Screening Tools

The National Council on Aging’s online tool allows users to screen for and apply for federal and state public benefits. This federal website generates a list of all public benefits for which a user may be eligible.

Medicare Counseling

Federally funded State Health Insurance information Programs (SHIPs) provide free counseling on Medicare, Medicaid, and long-term care insurance to seniors.  Find a local SHIP at this link. Every first Thursday of the month, DC seniors can meet with a Health Insurance Counseling Project (DC’s SHIP) representative at Iona.  For more information, call 202-895-9448. Call or [...]