American Indians and Alaska Natives are eligible to enroll in Medicare and get care from Indian Health Service (IHS) locations.
American Indians and Alaska Natives have access to Indian health benefits, like the Indian Health Service (IHS). Understanding how Medicare and IHS work together is important so you get the health care coverage you need to be your best.
There is a difference between IHS and Medicare.
IHS helps to make sure health care is accessible to American Indians and Alaska Natives through IHS facilities, but it is not health insurance.
Medicare is a health insurance program for people aged 65 and over and some younger people with disabilities or special health conditions. Medicare helps pay for the health care services you need – at both your IHS clinics and at other facilities.
IHS and Medicare work together to get you the care you need. IHS facilities are not equipped to provide all health care services. Enrolling in Medicare will give you access to specialists and care outside of IHS facilities.
When you sign up you will be enrolled in Original Medicare. Once you have Original Medicare, you can enroll in Medicare Part D for prescription drug coverage.
If you would prefer a plan that includes hospital, medical and prescription drug coverage and additional benefits bundled into one plan, consider enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan.
You do not need to change primary care physicians once you enroll in Medicare. You can keep seeing your IHS Provider at your IHS facility. All IHS providers accept Medicare.
Talk to your Community Health Representative if you have questions about IHS and Medicare.
Learn more about Banner Health’s Medicare Advantage plans.
Learn about Banner Health’s Medicare Part D plan.
Contact Banner Medicare so we can answer any questions you may have and even help you enroll.
Call (888) 788-1931 (TTY 711) to speak with a licensed sales agent.
Use our online form to have a licensed sales agent contact you.
Have questions or need help enrolling?
Call (833) 516-1007 (TTY 711) to speak with a licensed sales agent.
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