Guide describes health benefits for older workers

A new guide from the Office of Personnel Management explains how Medicare benefits affect federal workers and retirees covered by the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP).

FEHBP and Medicare provide overlapping coverage for some medical expenses, while FEHBP covers prescription drugs, routine physicals, emergency care outside the U.S., and some preventive care that Medicare doesn't cover. Medicare covers some orthopedic and prosthetic devices, durable medical equipment, home health care, limited chiropractic services, and medical supplies that FEHBP plans may not cover.

For most workers and retirees, Medicare coverage takes effect at age 65. The new guide answers questions on Medigap policies, Medicare Part A versus Medicare Part B and how benefits are coordinated between Medicare and FEHBP.

The guide is available online at www.opm.gov/hr/insure/mcare/mhb01.htm.