VillageCareMAX provides the latest comprehensive Medicare premium plan

VillageCareMAX, a nonprofit healthcare organization with over 40 years of experience, recently introduced its latest Medicare Advantage plan. Can you tell us more about the benefits this program offers to its members?

Absolutely! Members of VillageCareMAX enjoy a comprehensive Medicare Advantage plan that covers all medical expenses at no cost. Additionally, members can receive up to $300 monthly for over-the-counter (OTC) medications and groceries. This initiative is particularly beneficial for seniors on Medicare and Medicaid, as it targets individuals with specific chronic health conditions.

Since the opening of the Flushing Community Center in 2019, VillageCareMAX has been dedicated to providing essential healthcare services to local seniors. Can you elaborate on the services available at this center?

Certainly! The Flushing Community Center offers a one-stop service for seniors, addressing their healthcare needs from long-term care to medical supplies applications. Our staff, fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese, Shanghainese, and Fuzhou dialect, is always ready to assist residents by answering their questions and providing help with translation services for letters and documents.

We’ve also heard that VillageCareMAX is one of the first operators of integrated healthcare management plans in New York State. What kind of services are being provided to seniors with Medicare and Medicaid?

Yes, that’s correct! VillageCareMAX aims to deliver more specialized and targeted healthcare and long-term care services for seniors who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. Members not only enjoy a comprehensive plan with no out-of-pocket costs but also receive monthly OTC benefits up to $300.

Additionally, VillageCareMAX has partnered with federal Medicare and New York State Medicaid to enhance its collaborations with local Asian American physicians and community pharmacies. How is this expanding your reach?

Our partnerships are crucial for effectively serving eligible individuals living in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. Starting next year, we are excited to expand our services to Long Island, Staten Island, and Westchester, allowing us to reach even more seniors in need.

For individuals aged 18 and over who qualify for long-term care, what specific benefits does the Medicare Total Advantage (HMO D-SNP) plan include?

Members receive a wealth of benefits, such as $300 monthly for OTC items, a $575 annual benefit card for dental, vision, or hearing expenses, unlimited comprehensive dental services, and $350 for eye exams or glasses. There’s also significant coverage for acupuncture, medical transportation, and up to $50,000 for global emergency medical services.

For seniors who do not require long-term care, what options does VillageCareMAX provide for those interested in different healthcare needs?

VillageCareMAX offers two Medicare health plans—one for those needing acupuncture and one for those who don’t, providing monthly OTC allowances of $195 and $265, respectively.

What advice would you give to seniors to ensure they are making the most of their Medicare benefits, particularly regarding dental, vision, and hearing services?

It’s important for seniors to thoroughly review their Medicare plans to understand the additional benefits available, such as premiums, copays, and deductibles, which can vary based on the level of extra assistance they qualify for. For more detailed information about our services, we welcome everyone to visit our offices in Flushing and Sunset Park.

Where can interested individuals reach out for more information, and what are the operating hours?

The VillageCareMAX Flushing Community Center is located at 41-80 Main Street, Flushing, NY 11355, right next to the old Changfa Supermarket. Our office hours are Monday to Friday, from 9 AM to 5 PM, and people can call us at 1-718-517-2600. The Brooklyn Community Center is located at 61-20 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220, and inquiries can be made at 1-718-517-2650, with services available in Mandarin, Cantonese, and English.