Medicare Glossary: Simple Definitions & Terms

A written order from your primary care provider authorizing you to see a specialist or get certain health care services. HMO-type Medicare Advantage plans typically require referrals; PPOs and Original Medicare do not.

The ability to carry unused Health Savings Account (HSA) or Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) funds from one year to the next. Note: Once you enroll in any part of Medicare, you can no longer contribute to an HSA.