Medicare Basics

Before choosing the Medicare Advantage plan that's best for you, it’s important to understand the basics of Original Medicare. Here you’ll find more information about the enrollment process, the four parts of Medicare, and prescription drug coverage. This information is also helpful if you are helping others choose or use their Medicare plan.

You can also use our Medicare 101 booklet as an easy reference guide to the basics of Medicare. View the booklet

Medicare Eligibility

If you're turning 65 or retiring soon, there is something important you should do: Enroll in Medicare.
Find Out If You Are Eligible

When Can I Enroll?

Looking for information about the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period? New to Medicare coverage and need to enroll for the first time? You’re in the right place!
Learn When You Can Enroll

The Four Parts of Medicare

Chances are you’ve heard these Medicare terms before: Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D. Find out what they mean and what each part covers.
Learn the Four Parts of Medicare

Medicare Prescription Coverage

Learn about Medicare Part D—what's covered, what costs you're responsible for, and the stages of coverage.
Learn About Medicare Prescription Coverage

Medicare Advantage vs. Supplement Plans

Explore the differences between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans.
Learn More and Compare

Help with Medicare Costs

If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for programs that help reduce Medicare costs.
Learn More About Help with Medicare Costs

Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare

Deciding between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage is an important choice when you become eligible for Medicare. Knowing the difference between the two will help you choose a plan that is right for your needs and budget.

What is Medigap?

Medigap, also known as Medicare Supplement Insurance, is a type of private health insurance that helps cover some of the out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare.
Learn how Medigap (Medicare Supplement) work

Compare Types of Medicare Advantage Plans

There are many types of Medicare Advantage plans. These include Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), and Special Needs Plans (SNP). That’s why it is important to know the differences between plan types and their coverage when you  are choosing a plan.
Compare Types of Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Resources

Additional Documents and Forms
Medicare Complaint Form
Eligible for Medicare and Medicaid
Request a Provider Directory or Plan Materials
Medication Therapy Management
Language Assistance

Contact Us

UPMC for Life Members
Call us toll-free: 1-877-539-3080 (TTY: 711)
Email: upmcforlifems@upmc.edu

UPMC for Life Prospective Members
Call us toll-free: 1-866-400-5077 (TTY: 711)
Email: upmcmedicare@upmc.edu

UPMC Health Plan
Attn: UPMC for Life
U.S. Steel Tower, 9th Floor
600 Grant Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
This information is not a complete description of benefits. Call 1-866-400-5077 (TTY: 711) for more information. Out-of-network/Noncontracted providers are under no obligation to treat UPMC for Life members, except in emergency situations. Please call our customer service number or see your Evidence of Coverage for more information, including the cost sharing that applies to out-of-network services. Other physicians/providers are available in the UPMC for Life network.

This information is available for free in other languages. Please call our customer service number at 1-877-539-3080 (TTY: 711).

UPMC for Life has a contract with Medicare to provide HMO, HMO SNP, and PPO plans. The HMO SNP plans have a contract with the PA State Medical Assistance program. Enrollment in UPMC for Life depends on contract renewal. UPMC for Life is a product of and operated by UPMC Health Plan Inc., UPMC Health Network Inc., UPMC Health Benefits Inc., and UPMC Health Coverage Inc.

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UPMC for Life Members
Call us toll-free: 1-877-539-3080
TTY: 711

Oct. 1 – March 31:
Seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

April 1 – Sept. 30:
Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

UPMC for Life Prospective Members
Call us toll-free: 1-866-400-5077
TTY: 711

Jan. 1 – Sept. 30:
Seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Oct. 1 – Dec. 31:
Seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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Last Updated: 1/19/2024