[RedChariot]

Originally Posted by John_W

My wife had a United Health medigap plan that was costing $184 a month and a Humana drug plan that was $20 a month and required using Walmart Pharmacy. She received her medical care from Premier Medical at Lake Sumter Landing.

Last open season she switched to the United Medicare Advantage plan. First off, by using their drug plan combined with the premiums she use to pay, she is now $204 a month ahead. She now gets her drugs from Walgreens, which is much more convenient, and every drug she has received has been cheaper. Also certain drugs such as Sibrinza eye drops, they have in stock while Walmart had to order them everytime. Her care at the Villages Pinellas Office from Dr. Helene Aisenstat has been way more comprehensive and she is very happy.

Myself, I turned 65 last July and have the same Medicare Advantage and also use Pinellas. In the past I used the VA Medical Facility at The Villages and still do, but now as a back up. For example, last April I became very sick and went to my VA doctor. He spent a total of 10 seconds with me and listened to my chest and said you have some Bronchitis and gave me a Z-Pack (anti-biotics) and told me to go home and rest and I'll be like new in 5 days.

Five days later I was twice as sick and could hardly get out of bed. I then saw Dr. Aisenstat and first she ordered a chest X-Ray, it indicated I had pneumonia. I received an injection right then, and got two more prescriptions and went home and was well in about 5 days.

Previously I had a skin problem and had made a total of three trips to the VA Dermatologist in Gainesville and had biopsies taken in two locations. The VA was never able to properly diagnose my problems. Under Dr. Aisenstate I was referred to Dr. Casper, a dermatologist on CR466. Within two minutes of seeing me and with no biopsy, the doctor dignosed both of my problems and was correct. Overall I have been more than happy with The Villages Medicare Advantage Plan, and I'm grateful they have it right here in The Villages. You're right it's about the money, it has saved us a lot.

Your good care was driven by Dr Helen Aisenstat, also my physician. BUT SHE IS GONE. This doctor was so thorough in her exams. I wish she would open her own practice. I now will have to start shopping around.