Senior Living

Medical facilities, doctors, and providers who accept Medicare are available nationwide. There is no network for Original Medicare. (Dreamstime/TNS)

Toni Says: Is Original Medicare part of a health network?

Senior Living / Toni Says / Aug 21, 2025

Hi Toni,

I need your guidance. In September I turn 65, and I am unemployed. I’m on COBRA since retiring in May after I had a heart attack, and I don’t know what to do about enrolling in Medicare. The cardiologist informed me last week that the only thing that will improve my health is having heart surgery.

What health network does Medicare...Read more

America needs to be aware that Medicare only pays for medically necessary skilled nursing facility care or for home health care if you meet certain conditions. (Dreamstime/TNS)

Toni Says: Know your options for a long-term care plan when there are health issues

Senior Living / Toni Says / Aug 14, 2025

Morning, Toni:

I am retiring in January, when I turn 70 and my wife, Sharon, will be 66. I have heart issues, with atrial fibrillation (AFib), and Sharon is a diabetic. Last month, we each applied for a long-term care policy and were both denied due to our health. The agent who helped us search for long-term care insurance plans said that ...Read more

Medicare will only pay for skilled nursing or rehab facility care, writes Toni King. If you do not meet Medicare’s qualifications for skilled nursing, you will pay 100% of the cost for it out of your pocket. (Juan Moyano/Dreamstime/Tribune Content Agency)

Toni Says: Is 24/7 home care after a liver transplant covered by Medicare?

Senior Living / Toni Says / Aug 07, 2025

Dear Readers: Recently, I received a text message from a Toni Says Medicare client that I would like to share with you. The text reads Toni: I need to put together a 24/7 home care recovery plan after a liver transplant. The surgery is over a year out, but I would appreciate your advice on how to plan for this medical event. Thanks in ...Read more