Communicating with Medicare: Offfice, Phone, Mail, Internet?

[pasttense]

What are the pro's and con's of each method of communicating with Medicare? When would you use each? Thanks.

[rescueme]

Why the question?

The available communications are fine, IMHO.

I've been with Medicare (for my disabled son) for more than five years (via the local office), and I'll file myself on October 1 (on-line, of course).

I/we have never had a problem, regardless of communication channel used.

[JakeBrake]

I have been on Medicare for two years and, unfortunately, I have had a number of major medical events since then. All of my dealings with Medicare have been through my medical providers and have been handled without any problems. Most competent medical providers know to the penny what Medicare will pay for any procedure.

One tip is to not spend too much time looking at your claims in process at Medicare.gov. Wait until you get your bill from your medical provider.

[Brat]

Medicare could save a bundle if they would send statements monthly.