Medi-gap or medicare?

by Guest » Mon Jan 25, 2010 07:10 am
Guest

I'm really confused as to whether I should go for medi-gap plans. Won't it be better to go for Medicare advantage options instead? What do you all think of this?

Total Comments: 5

Posted: Tue Jan 26, 2010 09:19 am Post Subject:

If you've Medicare, you should also remember the following-

* You'd need to pay for your deductibles
* 80% of your approved expenses would be covered (once you meet the deductible)

If you've opted for Medicare Part-A and Part-B only, then you may find it hard to pay for your larger medical expenses after meeting the deductible and the remaining 20% of approved expenses. Medi-gap or supplements could be a good way of protecting yourself against such risks. Roddick

Posted: Wed Jan 27, 2010 07:05 am Post Subject:

When it comes to Medigap, it's important to remember that most of the carriers would offer you plans that are based on your age. In order to get a plan approved, there has to be a proper medical underwriting. This has some relaxation under the open-enrollment period.

Posted: Wed Jan 27, 2010 10:07 pm Post Subject:

If you are turning 65, you are guaranteed issue for a period of 6 months so underwriting won't apply. Medicare Advantage plans have come under fire from the Obama admin as of late. Funding has been lowered and some plans have dropped members in many states. Medigap or Medicare Supplements provide more freedom than Medicare Advantage plans. Under an MA plan you have to go to the network of doctors, with a Medigap you see doctors who accept Medicare, more freedom.

Posted: Sat Jan 30, 2010 09:20 am Post Subject:

Hi Mandy,

I hope the below information might help you.

Medigap policies are a form of private supplemental insurance that pay for part or all of Medicare’s coinsurance and deductibles. Certain policies also cover health care costs that Medicare doesn't cover, such as emergency medical care in foreign countries, and excess charges from a provider who does not accept assignment.

Unlike certain Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, Medigap policies do not restrict you to a network of providers and facilities. If you have a Medigap policy, you can see any doctor or use any hospital that accepts Medicare.

Note: You do not need Medigap coverage if you:

Have an MA plan
Receive full Medi-Cal benefits

Thanks,
Corwin.

Posted: Tue Feb 02, 2010 07:59 am Post Subject: Medicare and Medigap

You must know that premium rates vary in medigap with health and gender and increase with age. It also needs no referrals for specialist visits. However, medicare includes routine check-ups and might also offer additional alternative medicine package.

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