Quote:
Originally Posted by retiredguy123
I am a retired Federal employee with the Federal BC/BS standard plan. My employer doesn't require me to have Medicare Part B, so I don't have it. I have saved thousands of dollars by not paying the Medicare premiums. I have no problem finding providers to accept my insurance. So, if you are not required to buy Medicare, you may want to do the math and see if it is worth buying.
|
We are in the same boat with the federal BCBS (FEP Blue). But, I opted to take Medicare Part B in addition to BCBS. If you don't sign up for Part B when first eligible, there are penalties imposed if you sign up later. Those penalties are severe, and you would pay them for life. Plus, BCBS reimburses each member who has Part B $800 each year to help offset the cost.
For us, this approach has worked well. I have yet to pay a dime out of pocket for medical expenses, including a major surgery last year. We can go to any doctor or specialist we want. And, with the FEP Blue we have worldwide coverage, which can be important when you travel. Everyone's situation is unique, but for us, this works.