100 Questions to Ask AI About Parkinson's Disease Treatment and Medicare
Coverage under Medicare Part A, Part B, and Part D — written in your own voice.
Pick a Prompt
- Each prompt is written as a question you can ask an AI assistant in your own words.
- Replace every item in [brackets] with your own facts — for example, your state, ZIP code, plan name, medications, and symptoms. The more specific you are, the more useful the answer.
- Tell the AI which coverage you have: Original Medicare (with or without a Medigap policy), a Medicare Advantage plan, a Part D plan, Medicaid, or Extra Help.
- Ask follow-up questions such as "What should I verify with my plan?" or "What documents will my doctor need?"
- Always confirm coverage, costs, and rules with Medicare (1-800-MEDICARE), your plan, your doctor, or your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) before making a decision.
Which Part Usually Pays?
| Part A | Hospital inpatient care, skilled nursing facility stays, home health, hospice. |
|---|---|
| Part B | Doctor and specialist visits, tests and imaging, outpatient therapy, outpatient procedures, durable medical equipment, some pump-delivered drugs. |
| Part D | Most prescription drugs you take at home, including most Parkinson's pills. |
This is a general guide. How a specific treatment is billed can depend on where it is given, how it is delivered, and whether you have Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan.
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Getting Oriented: Parkinson's and Medicare
Parts A, B, and D overview
1. I was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease [time since diagnosis] ago and I have [Original Medicare / a Medicare Advantage plan]. In plain language, explain which parts of my Parkinson's care are usually covered by Part A, which by Part B, and which by Part D.
2. I am turning 65 on [my birthday] and was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's. What Medicare enrollment decisions should I make now, and how could my diagnosis affect choices like Medigap underwriting in [my state]?
3. I am under 65, receive SSDI because of Parkinson's disease, and became eligible for Medicare on [date]. What should I know about my Part A, B, and D options, and can I buy a Medigap policy in [my state]?
4. Create a one-page checklist I can bring to my neurologist that lists the Parkinson's treatments I currently use — [my medications, therapies, and devices] — and which part of Medicare is most likely to pay for each one.
5. My Parkinson's symptoms are [early / moderate / advanced] and include [my main symptoms]. What types of treatment might I need over the next five years, and what Medicare cost questions should I start asking now?
6. I have [Original Medicare with Medigap Plan __ / a Medicare Advantage plan from __] and a Part D plan from [plan name]. Walk me through how to estimate my total yearly Parkinson's costs, including premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.
7. Explain the difference between 'medically necessary' and 'covered' under Medicare, using examples from Parkinson's care such as [a therapy or device I am considering].
8. What questions should I ask my doctor's office to confirm they accept Medicare assignment for my Parkinson's care, and what happens to my costs if they do not?
9. I care for my [spouse / parent] who has Parkinson's and Medicare. What information do I need, and what permissions should we set up, so I can call Medicare and the plans on their behalf?
10. Help me build a simple notebook or spreadsheet layout to track my Parkinson's treatments, Medicare claims, denials, and out-of-pocket costs throughout [year].
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Doctor Visits, Specialists, and Diagnostic Testing
Mainly Part B
11. I want to see a movement disorder specialist at [hospital or clinic name] in [my city]. How does Medicare Part B cover specialist visits, and what would my share of the cost likely be with [my coverage]?
12. My neurologist recommended a DaTscan (dopamine transporter imaging) to help confirm my diagnosis. Is this test typically covered under Medicare Part B, and what should I confirm before scheduling it?
13. My doctor ordered an MRI of my brain to rule out other conditions. How does Medicare cover outpatient imaging, and how does my cost change if it is done at a hospital outpatient department versus a freestanding imaging center?
14. I have [Original Medicare / Medicare Advantage]. Can I get a second opinion about my Parkinson's diagnosis or treatment plan, and how does Medicare cover second opinions?
15. I live in [rural area / my town] and it is hard for me to travel. What Medicare telehealth options are available for my neurology follow-up visits, and what rules currently apply for [year]?
16. My doctor suggested genetic testing because [my family history or age at onset]. When does Medicare cover genetic testing related to Parkinson's, and what documentation is usually required?
17. What is a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit, and how can I use it to address my Parkinson's-related concerns such as falls, memory, and depression without being charged for a separate visit?
18. My doctor's office mentioned 'Chronic Care Management' services and a monthly charge. Explain what this is, how Medicare Part B pays for it, and whether it makes sense for someone with Parkinson's and [my other conditions].
19. I received a bill for a 'facility fee' after a neurology visit at [clinic name]. Explain why hospital-based clinics charge facility fees under Medicare and how this affects my Parkinson's care costs.
20. I need lab work and other tests related to my Parkinson's medications, such as [specific tests]. Which tests does Medicare Part B usually cover, and when might I pay a share of the cost?
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Prescription Medications
Mainly Part D
21. I take [my Parkinson's medications and doses]. Help me compare Part D plans in [my ZIP code] for [year], focusing on formulary tiers, restrictions, preferred pharmacies, and total yearly cost.
22. My carbidopa/levodopa prescription is [immediate-release / extended-release / brand name]. Why might my Part D plan cover one version but not another, and what are my options if my version is not covered?
23. My Part D plan requires prior authorization for [medication name]. Walk me through what prior authorization means, what my doctor must submit, and how long the plan has to decide.
24. My Parkinson's medication [medication name] is on a high tier with a large copay. How do I request a tiering or formulary exception (including an exception to step therapy rules), and what should my doctor's supporting statement include?
25. Explain how the Part D annual out-of-pocket cap works for [year], and estimate when I might reach it based on my Parkinson's medications: [my medications and monthly costs]. Also explain whether the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan could help me spread those costs out monthly.
26. My income is about [monthly income] and my savings are about [amount]. Could I qualify for Extra Help (the Low-Income Subsidy) with my Parkinson's prescriptions, and how do I apply?
27. I was prescribed an on-demand or 'rescue' medication for sudden 'off' episodes, such as [medication name]. How do Part D plans typically cover these drugs, and what restrictions should I expect?
28. My doctor prescribed [medication name] for Parkinson's-related hallucinations or psychosis. How do Part D plans usually handle coverage for this type of medication, and what if it is not on my plan's formulary?
29. I also take medications for Parkinson's-related symptoms such as [constipation / sleep problems / low blood pressure / bladder issues / depression]. Which of these are typically covered by Part D, and which might be excluded?
30. I was in the hospital as an outpatient under observation and was billed for my own Parkinson's pills. Explain why this happens and how I can ask my Part D plan to reimburse me.
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Infusion Pumps and Advanced Therapies
Part B and Part D
31. My neurologist is discussing a continuous infusion therapy, such as [medication or pump name], for my motor fluctuations. Explain whether this is usually covered under Part B as durable medical equipment and supplies, or under Part D, and why that matters for my costs.
32. I was prescribed carbidopa/levodopa enteral suspension delivered through a tube and pump. What parts of this treatment — the procedure to place the tube, the pump, the medication, and the supplies — does each part of Medicare typically cover?
33. I am considering a subcutaneous (under-the-skin) infusion therapy for Parkinson's, such as [medication name]. What coverage criteria might Medicare or my plan require, and what documentation should my doctor prepare?
34. My doctor is recommending a continuous apomorphine infusion. Help me prepare questions about how Medicare would cover the medication, the pump, the supplies, and any nurse training visits.
35. For an infusion therapy like [therapy name], what does it mean that the pump must be supplied by a Medicare-enrolled DME supplier or specialty pharmacy, and how do I find one that serves [my area]?
36. What should I do if my Part B or Medicare Advantage claim for an infusion pump or supplies for [therapy name] is denied? Outline the appeal steps and the evidence that is most helpful.
37. I have a Medigap Plan [letter]. How would it help pay my 20% Part B coinsurance for an advanced Parkinson's infusion therapy, and what costs might still be left for me?
38. I have a Medicare Advantage plan from [plan name]. What questions should I ask about prior authorization, in-network specialty pharmacies, and monthly cost-sharing before starting [advanced therapy]?
39. My doctor mentioned that some newer Parkinson's treatments were approved recently. How can I find out whether [treatment name] is covered by Medicare and how it is billed, since newer therapies sometimes have unclear coverage?
40. Create a side-by-side comparison of my advanced treatment options — [option 1, option 2, option 3] — showing how each would likely be covered by Medicare and what questions to ask about my out-of-pocket costs.
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Deep Brain Stimulation and Surgical Procedures
Parts A and B
41. My neurologist says I may be a candidate for deep brain stimulation (DBS). Explain the general Medicare coverage criteria for DBS in Parkinson's disease and what evaluations I am likely to need first.
42. Break down the costs of DBS surgery under Original Medicare: the hospital stay under Part A, the surgeon and anesthesia under Part B, and the device. What would my share be with [my coverage]?
43. My DBS surgery may be done in stages or as an outpatient procedure. How does being admitted as an inpatient versus treated as an outpatient change which part of Medicare pays and what I owe?
44. I am having a pre-surgical evaluation for DBS that includes neuropsychological testing, imaging, and a levodopa challenge test. How are these tests covered by Medicare Part B?
45. After DBS surgery, I will need programming visits to adjust my device. How does Medicare cover DBS programming, and how often might I need these visits during the first year?
46. My DBS battery (the implanted pulse generator) needs replacing. How does Medicare cover replacement procedures, and is there a difference between rechargeable and non-rechargeable devices?
47. I have a Medicare Advantage plan from [plan name]. What prior authorization and network questions should I ask before scheduling DBS at [hospital name]?
48. My doctor mentioned focused ultrasound as a treatment option for my tremor. Under what circumstances might Medicare cover focused ultrasound for Parkinson's tremor, and what should I verify first?
49. I received an Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN) before a procedure related to my Parkinson's treatment. Explain what an ABN means, what my options are, and how signing it affects my rights.
50. I have a DBS device and need an MRI for another health issue. What questions should I ask about device compatibility, and how does Medicare cover any special imaging requirements?
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Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy
Mainly Part B
51. My doctor recommended physical therapy for my balance and walking. How does Medicare Part B cover outpatient physical therapy for Parkinson's, and what will my share of the cost be with [my coverage]?
52. I was told Medicare only pays for therapy if I am 'improving.' Explain the Jimmo settlement and how Medicare can cover skilled therapy to maintain my function or slow my decline from Parkinson's.
53. Explain the Medicare therapy spending threshold (the KX modifier) and what happens when my physical, occupational, or speech therapy costs go above it during [year].
54. My speech therapist recommended LSVT LOUD for my soft voice. Is this type of program typically covered by Medicare Part B, and what should my therapist document?
55. I am interested in LSVT BIG or another Parkinson's-specific exercise program. How can I tell whether a program is covered skilled therapy versus a fitness class that Medicare will not pay for?
56. I am having trouble swallowing, and my doctor ordered a swallowing study. How does Medicare cover swallowing evaluations and the speech therapy that may follow?
57. An occupational therapist could help me with dressing, writing, and home safety. What OT services does Medicare Part B cover for people with Parkinson's, and can the therapist come to my home?
58. My Medicare Advantage plan limits my therapy visits or requires prior authorization after [number] visits. What are my rights, and how do I request additional visits?
59. I want to return to physical therapy after my Parkinson's symptoms worsened following [illness / fall / medication change]. Can I start a new therapy episode under Medicare, and what does my doctor need to document?
60. Create a list of questions to ask a physical therapy clinic in [my city] to confirm they accept Medicare, have Parkinson's experience, and understand maintenance therapy coverage.
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Hospital, Skilled Nursing, and Home Health Care
Mainly Part A
61. I was hospitalized because of [fall / infection / medication problem] related to my Parkinson's. Explain what Part A covers for my inpatient stay and how the benefit period and deductible work.
62. I was kept in the hospital under 'observation status.' Explain how this differs from being admitted as an inpatient, how it affects my costs, and how it affects coverage for a later skilled nursing facility stay.
63. After my hospital stay, my doctor recommends short-term rehabilitation in a skilled nursing facility. Explain Medicare's rules for SNF coverage, including the qualifying hospital stay, daily coinsurance, and the 100-day limit.
64. My doctor recommended an inpatient rehabilitation facility instead of a nursing home after my [surgery / hospitalization]. How does Medicare decide whether I qualify, and what are the cost differences?
65. I have trouble leaving my home because of my Parkinson's. Explain Medicare's 'homebound' requirement for home health care and which services, such as nursing and therapy, could be provided at home.
66. My home health agency says my Medicare coverage is ending, but I still need help. What notice should I receive, and how do I file a fast appeal?
67. My skilled nursing facility says Medicare will stop paying because I have 'plateaued.' How do I challenge this decision using the Jimmo standard and a fast appeal through the Quality Improvement Organization?
68. In the hospital, my Parkinson's medications were not given on my usual schedule. What can I or my family do to protect my medication timing during a Medicare-covered hospital stay, and whom do I contact with concerns?
69. I need help with bathing, dressing, and meals because of my Parkinson's. Explain the difference between skilled care and custodial care, and what Medicare will and will not pay for.
70. I am being discharged from the hospital after [reason]. Give me a discharge checklist covering medications, equipment, home health referrals, and follow-up visits so my Medicare coverage continues smoothly.
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Durable Medical Equipment and Home Safety
Mainly Part B
71. I need a walker or cane because of my Parkinson's balance problems. How does Medicare Part B cover mobility aids, and what does my doctor need to document?
72. My doctor says I may need a wheelchair or power scooter. Explain Medicare's coverage rules for manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and scooters for people with Parkinson's, including the face-to-face exam requirement.
73. Would Medicare cover a hospital bed for my home because of my Parkinson's? Explain the criteria and whether the bed would be rented or purchased.
74. I am interested in a lift chair or seat-lift mechanism. What part of a lift chair does Medicare cover, and what will I likely pay out of pocket?
75. What home safety items, such as grab bars, shower chairs, and raised toilet seats, does Medicare usually not cover, and are there other programs in [my state] that might help pay for them?
76. How do I find a Medicare-enrolled DME supplier in [my ZIP code] that accepts assignment, and why does that matter for what I will pay?
77. I have a Medicare Advantage plan from [plan name]. What questions should I ask about approved DME suppliers, prior authorization, and rental versus purchase before ordering [equipment]?
78. I have trouble speaking clearly due to Parkinson's. When might Medicare cover a speech-generating device, and what evaluation is needed?
79. My medical equipment for Parkinson's, [equipment name], broke. How does Medicare handle repairs and replacements, and who should I call first?
80. Do Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits in [my county] ever include items like home safety modifications, fall alert devices, or over-the-counter allowances that could help me with Parkinson's? How do I compare plans for these extras?
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Mental Health, Cognition, Palliative Care, and Hospice
Parts A, B, and D
81. I have been feeling depressed and anxious since my Parkinson's diagnosis. How does Medicare cover counseling, psychiatric care, and depression screening, and what will I pay with [my coverage]?
82. I or my family have noticed changes in my memory and thinking. How does Medicare cover a cognitive assessment and care planning visit, and what should we bring to that appointment?
83. My doctor is concerned about Parkinson's disease dementia or Lewy body dementia. What Medicare-covered services and programs, such as dementia care programs, might help me and my caregiver?
84. I have sleep problems such as acting out dreams, insomnia, or daytime sleepiness. How does Medicare cover a sleep study and treatment related to my Parkinson's?
85. How does Medicare cover advance care planning conversations with my doctor, and what Parkinson's-specific questions should I discuss for my future care?
86. What is palliative care, how is it different from hospice, and how can I get Medicare-covered palliative care while still receiving active Parkinson's treatment?
87. My [family member] has advanced Parkinson's. Explain the Medicare hospice benefit, the eligibility rules, what hospice covers, and whether they can keep taking their Parkinson's medications.
88. If my [family member] enrolls in hospice, which costs move from Part D to the hospice benefit, and what happens to coverage for Parkinson's drugs not related to comfort care?
89. I am a caregiver for someone with Parkinson's and Medicare. What Medicare-covered services, training, or respite options exist for caregivers, and what support is available in [my state]?
90. My Parkinson's medications sometimes cause impulse-control problems or confusion. How can I get Medicare-covered help reviewing my medications, such as a Medication Therapy Management program through my Part D plan?
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Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Appeals, and Planning
All parts
91. I have Parkinson's and am comparing Original Medicare with Medigap against Medicare Advantage in [my county]. Create a comparison focused on specialist access, prior authorization, travel, and total costs for someone with my treatments: [my treatments].
92. My movement disorder specialist at [hospital name] is not in my Medicare Advantage network. What are my options, including network exceptions, PPO out-of-network coverage, or switching plans during an enrollment period?
93. I want to switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare because of my Parkinson's care needs. Can I get a Medigap policy in [my state], and are there guaranteed issue rights or trial rights that apply to me?
94. Explain Medicare Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs and D-SNPs), and whether a chronic condition plan for neurological conditions or a dual-eligible plan might be available for my Parkinson's in [my county].
95. I have both Medicare and Medicaid in [my state]. How do they work together to cover my Parkinson's treatments, medications, home care, and nursing home care?
96. My Medicare Advantage plan denied prior authorization for [treatment / therapy / equipment]. Walk me through the levels of appeal, the deadlines, and when I can ask for a fast (expedited) decision.
97. Draft a letter I can send to my Part D or Medicare Advantage plan appealing the denial of [medication or service] for my Parkinson's. Include placeholders for my doctor's supporting statement and medical history.
98. I am interested in joining a Parkinson's clinical trial at [research center]. How does Medicare cover routine costs in clinical trials, and what costs might I be responsible for?
99. During the Annual Enrollment Period for [year], what changes in my Medicare Advantage or Part D plan's Annual Notice of Change should I review most carefully as someone with Parkinson's?
100. Create a personalized annual Medicare review plan for my Parkinson's care that tells me what to check each fall — my medications, doctors, therapies, equipment, and costs — before enrollment deadlines.
Important Disclaimer
This guide is for educational purposes only. It is not medical, legal, financial, or insurance advice, and it does not recommend any specific treatment, plan, or product. Medicare rules, plan formularies, costs, and coverage criteria change every year and can vary by plan and by where care is received. AI tools can make mistakes. Always verify information with Medicare (1-800-MEDICARE or Medicare.gov), your plan, your health care providers, or your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
More beneficiary-first prompt libraries: https://www.medicareprompts.ai | https://www.medicarecuratedprompts.ai