I currently go to TVH and have been very impressed with the care. I have a very capable primary care physician, which is extremely important to me.
I've been reading all the comments about the downside of a UH Advantage plan... one of them being that you can't pick specialty care (like Shands or other facilities for cancer or heart-related care). Taking the cancer example, my understanding is that TVH is affiliated with some of the top cancer care institutions... MD Anderson (nationally-known as a leading cancer center) being one of them. I am impressed that they are affiliated with top-rated institutions. Also, many people say "with TVH, "you can't go to out of network physicians/facilities..." But - I know of at least one person who has received an exemption and has been referred to an "out of network" physician ... so... don't assume that you can't be referred to an out-of-network physician/facility if you go with UH-Advantage.
I've also heard people say that if you leave The Villages you won't be covered.... but I know that UH-Advantage offers a Passport plan, which allows members to receive covered services outside of TVH service area when traveling (or if you're a snowbird).
I would recommend, to make an informed decision, visit the Medicare Resource Center, meet with your insurance provider, contact a United Health Care Medicare Advantage advisor which are located in the town squares, meet with SHINE volunteers, and I would also recommend you consider signing up for an educational session at a TVH care center by calling (352) 674-8789.
Again... TVH isn't for everyone. But research your options and talk to the experts. Then make the right decision for you.
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