Medicare options

[begreen]

I am about to embark upon the brave new world of Medicare. What are some of the things I should be aware of? I am admittedly spoiled by currently having great corporate health care. My SIL is pushing AARP (United Health Care), but I suspect her coverage is very pricey. I want to have a choice in doctors, specialists and hospitals, but I don't have to have the platinum plan. What are the best supplemental insurers and plans for good options?

 

[Ehouse]

I am about to embark upon the brave new world of Medicare. What are some of the things I should be aware of? I am admittedly spoiled by currently having great corporate health care. My SIL is pushing AARP (United Health Care), but I suspect her coverage is very pricey. I want to have a choice in doctors, specialists and hospitals, but I don't have to have the platinum plan. What are the best supplemental insurers and plans for good options?

It's changing almost daily because of The ACA. I've been on for just over a year using United Health Care's no premium advantage plan, but when the ACA went into effect, they raised all their deductables and co pays and eliminated 90% of the in network Doctors and Facilities in the area. I have a great Hospital ten minutes away and scads of affiliated docs. and clinics but I now have to drive about 50 miles to see an in network provider.

Being on Medicare disqualifies you from a family plan under the ACA. I think you've researched that.

I think all states have a rating system for insurers providing plans under Medicare that might be of some help.

The lists of providers are incomplete and changing all the time. Double check frequently with both the ins. co. and the provider often you won't be informed of a change, and be stuck with an out of network payment which could cost you big bucks.

Due diligence is needed these days. Good luck.

 

[Ehouse]

One other thing. If anyone in your family will be getting insurance through the ACA, they will have to use your entire family income as their means test for a tax credit. Some pension income, such as a portion of Social Security must be added to your total after deductions. It's called Adjusted Modified Gross Income. Your accountant can give you this number. The fine, should you remain uninsured, is also based on this higher income figure for split medicare families.

 

[begreen]

My youngest son hit 26 this year and will be filing independently. So no dependents for us. That works to his advantage with ACA. My wife will get catastrophic coverage until Oct. when she is medicare qualified.

My focus right now is on picking a Medicare supplemental program that fits my needs. I'm relatively healthy, no chronic problems so far other than internet addiction.