Quote:
Originally Posted by retiredguy123
Note that the OP's only question was, if they have original (traditional) Medicare and a Medicare supplement plan, is there a network of providers that they must use to be paid by the supplement plan? The question has already been answered and the answer is no. If the provider accepts traditional Medicare, then the supplement plan will cover all or part of the coinsurance.
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Thank you to the few of you who answered my direct question. I wasn't looking for advice on every other aspect of health care, just a direct inquiry if "in network" and "out of network" exists with any Medicare supplement (= Medigap). I have a great PCP that I see regularly. I have done a lot of reading on Medicare, and will be in contact with SHINE. I know everyone's situation is different, so what fits my needs may not be the choice for someone else. Since PCP's and specialists may move or join another company, they may be in an Advantage plan one year and not the next. When I am faced with a medical crisis, I want to decide where in the country I want my treatment. For example, there don't seem to be any Advantage plans locally that would permit me to go to the Mayo Clinic if that's where my PCP said had the best treatment. I'd have to use an "in-network" provider that may not be my preference. (If there is one, no need to tell me which one). This is just an example, and could apply if you wanted to go somewhere with advanced treatment options for a myriad of health issues.
I really appreciate your direct answer to my general question, which was if I choose a specific company (like FL Blue or UHS) SUPPLEMENT, then I can go anywhere and see any PCP or specialist (yes, if they are accepting new patients, etc.), as NETWORKS don't apply with supplement (medigap) plans, but do with Advantage Plans. I will continue to research.