This handbook explains: your Medicare benefits; your Medicare plan choices; Medicare managed care plans in your area; & where you can call for help. The first 3 pages are a short summary which can be read quickly to get the basics. More details are in the rest of this handbook, which includes special information for the New York City Vicinity. This handbook is valid from Jan. 1, 2000 through Dec. 31, 2000.

Manage the Medicare maze — from enrollment dates to plan options! To get the most from Medicare, you need accurate information that steers you clear of bad advice and costly pitfalls. Medicare For Dummies is what you need to navigate Medicare successfully and get the best out of the complex system. AARP’s Medicare expert, Patricia Barry, gives you plain-language explanations of how Medicare works and what steps you need to take to make it work for you, including: How you qualify for Medicare and when to enroll according to your personal situation What Medicare covers and what it costs Ways to reduce out-of-pocket expenses Tips for dealing with doctors and switching plans You'll even get information about proposed changes to Medicare that you should know about and tips for staying healthy. If you're one of the millions of Americans looking to get the lowdown on Medicare, this hands-on, friendly guide has you covered.