Are Puerto Ricans automatically enrolled in Medicare?

Puerto Rican residents are not automatically enrolled in Part A or Part B Medicare they need to register for it just as if they were living in the Continental United States.

While Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, it is treated differently than the 50 states when it comes to Medicare. Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) coverage is automatic for people who are eligible for Social Security benefits and are living in Puerto Rico, but enrollment in Medicare Part B (medical insurance) is not automatic.

Puerto Ricans are not automatically enrolled in Medicare. Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

Puerto Ricans who are eligible for Medicare can enroll in Part B during their Initial Enrollment Period, which is the seven-month period that starts three months before they turn 65, includes their birth month, and ends three months after their birth month. People who delay enrollment in Part B may face a late enrollment penalty when they do enroll.

It is important for Puerto Rican potential Medicare beneficiaries who are eligible for Medicare to understand their options and enrollment requirements and to work with a qualified healthcare professional or insurance advisor to ensure that they are enrolled in the appropriate Medicare coverage for their needs.

MedHelpCenter.us recommends that you call the Senior Health Insurance Agency at 813-592-8568 for further explanation.