Many readers may be confused about Medicare and some who are not near the age of 65 should be more concerned then those who are over 55. Here is the reason why. Those over 55 will most likely not be affected by any changes made to the current Medicare system and at the appropriate age will be able to apply for and receive benefits.

Those of you 55 or younger are another story, and it doesn’t matter who gets elected. It matters what they do with the system once they are in office. As the Medicare program stands right this minute… no money for those who turn 65  fifteen years from now. That is a problem.

What can you do? Actually you can do several things now to improve your over all health care later when you reach 65 years old.

1. Eat well, exercise, and take care of your health.

2. Invest in a retirement health program or insurance benefit, buy supplemental policies, or begin putting money into your own savings account for health related care later.

3. Vote, but make certain you know what each candidate stands for in writing, not by the wording others repeat. You can research on the government websites exactly what the bills about Medicare really state and what it means for you at your current age. Be an informed voter, not one who listens to others without doing some research.

4. Discuss your concerns with your health care provider and with your health insurance agent. They are both educated about current issues because it directly affects how they pay out or are reimbursed. If you don’t get the answers you want there, call your local hospital and ask to speak to someone in billing or to a patient advocate.

It is important to be prepared for retirement in more ways than your social security income or where you want to vacation. Research and be prepared for your health care as you reach retirement age so you will not be caught without appropriate health care coverage.