If you are dissatisfied with a Medicare plan file a grievance. A grievance is not the same as an appeal. An appeal is for when a plan denies you a service, medication or item that you need. To learn about appeals, and how to do them:
- If you have Original Medicare, click here
- If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, follow the procedure described by your plan.
On the other hand, a grievance is when you are dissatisfied with your Medicare plan for any reason. For example: rude service or poor quality care.
Depending on the situation, you may want to file both a grievance and an appeal.
There are two ways to file a grievance. They are:
- File a grievance directly with the plan. Call the plan (the number will be listed on their paperwork) and tell them that you want to file a grievance. Be sure to use the word "grievance". All plans have to both accept grievances and report them to Medicare.
- Call Medicare at 800 Medicare (800.633. 4227) and say you want to file a grievance or a complaint.
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