Medicare beneficiaries have fundamental rights and protections that ensure fair treatment and access to healthcare. You have the right to be treated with courtesy, dignity, and respect at all times by healthcare providers and Medicare representatives. Federal law protects you from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, or religion.
Your personal and health information must be kept private and secure. You have the right to receive Medicare information in a way you understand, whether that means getting materials in your preferred language or in accessible formats like large print or braille. Healthcare providers must explain your treatment options in clear language, and you have the right to participate in decisions about your care.
You’re entitled to get answers to your Medicare questions and access medically necessary services from doctors, specialists, and hospitals. In emergencies, you have the right to receive Medicare-covered services without prior authorization. If you need plan information in another language or accessible format, contact your plan directly.