FAQs

If you’ve got Medicare questions, you’re not alone. We receive queries from people all over the area. People just like you who want to make the best, most informed decisions possible. Here are just some of the most commonly asked questions and our expert answers.

Do I give up Medicare by joining SummaCare Secure?
Absolutely not. You keep your Medicare card. It’s just that we administer the benefits and offer you additional benefits as well. So, you’ll use a SummaCare identification card when you visit your physician or require treatment. But keep your Medicare card in case you cancel your SummaCare membership

What if I move out of the area?
Our contract with Medicare allows us to serve you only as long as you live in Carroll, Cuyahoga, Lorain, Mahoning, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit, Trumbull or Wayne counties. If you move away from this area, or leave for more than six consecutive months, you must tell us in writing so we can disenroll you. At that point, you become covered under regular Medicare.

Can I change my Primary Care Physician?
Yes, at any time. Call a Customer Service representative so we can help you change physicians and make the change to your records. Usually this change will be effective within 14 days from the time you call. We will notify you when this change is effective and you will receive a new SummaCare identification card with your new Primary Care Physician’s information included.

What if I already belong to another Medicare Advantage Plan?
If you choose to enroll in SummaCare Secure, your coverage from your current Medicare Advantage Plan will automatically be terminated. You can only belong to one Medicare Advantage Plan at a time. Keep in mind that there are only certain times during the year when you can change plans.

What if I just want to go back to regular Medicare?
During the Annual Election Period (November 15 through December 31) you may choose to go back to regular Medicare. Just tell us in writing or stop by any local Social Security Office or any Railroad Retirement Board office if you are an annuitant. You may also disenroll by calling (800) MEDICARE, which is 800-633-4227. Persons with hearing impairments, please call TTY at 800-750-0750. These phone numbers are open 24 hours/7 days a week. The date of your disenrollment will depend on when your request to disenroll is received. You must continue to receive all medical care from SummaCare Secure until the effective date of disenrollment.

Will you disenroll me if I get sick?
No. We will be there for you whether you’re healthy or sick. We cannot disenroll you due to illness, no matter how severe.

Do I still pay my Medicare Part B premium?
Yes, you must continue to pay your Part B premium, which is normally deducted from your Social Security check.