Wow-TVH temper tantrums

[inthemindofanurse]

It absolutely amazes me the way some people behave. *Begin rant -Those of you that are infuriated about the TVH insurance change should educate yourselves a bit before showing your rear. Hopefully you have kept your letters about how you were grandfathered in for the rest of the existence that TVH has their doors open! Come on folks, be realistic. At the time of that letter there was no plan to go to only UHC MA. You were not conned. You were not lied to. You were not deceived. You were told that for the time being you would be taken care of. Things change. As far as TVH being money hungry devils....well, just an FYI they lose millions, yes plural, of dollars a year by accepting the other insurance carriers. Why, do you ask? Because in order to provide 30 minute appointments, in order to ensure that if you are in the hospital one of the TVH doctors see you, in order to ensure that there are 30 + open appointments available for call ins, in order to ensure that all of your care is coordinated through your primary, in order to ensure that you are taken care of and pampered the way you are-INSURANCE HAS TO PAY FOR IT!! BCBS said heck no, Cigna said not a chance, Humana wasn't biting, Aetna said no thanks. United Health Care said yes. These other insurance plans WILL NOT pay for these things! Please explain how TVH can continue to provide a 30 min appointment and only get paid for 12 minutes of it?! Will you accept being told they no longer offer 30 min appts because your ins will only pay for 10? No, you won't. Will you accept waiting 2 hours for your 10 min appt because the office had to schedule 30 patients for that doctor just to make the money to keep the doors open? Doubt it. At the end of the day you are just being whiney brats. TVH has not changed. They are still the best patient centered medical office in the state of Florida. They want nothing more than to continue to be the best and treat YOU, yes YOU the best. But open your eyes and realize that this kind of care has to be paid for. Like I said, MILLIONS of dollars lost. MILLIONS of dollars in the red! No, it's not so your doctor can drive home in a Mercedes. No, it's not so the medical director can get a yacht. No, it's not so the CEO can go skiing in the Swiss Alps. The whole world can't go into poverty so you can continue to sit pretty on your pedestal getting your butt powdered! - *end rant

[rhood]

����������

[inthemindofanurse]

Oh and P.S. it's not only 1 plan. There are 5. One is Medicare AARP Complete. And they also are keeping Tricare

[rhood]

������

[villagetinker]

There is a LOT of misinformation being spread (probably on both sides), but I spent almost an hour at a UHC healthcare office getting answers to my 23 or questions. Came out with a much better understanding of what I may or may NOT be giving up by dropping supplemental and going advantage. Next step is to go over this with SHINE, then wait until Oct 1 for the revised books.
BTW, there are THREE (3) insurance plans accepted by TVHS (not including the commercial/government plans), HMO1. HMO2, and PPO, in increasing monthly costs as listed. I have the three books and am just started comparing the plans to the supplemental we currently have.
There is coverage when you travel for emergency care, some coverage if you have a health problem (urgent care) while you are out of network. For those of you that are dual residence, there is the Passport system for 37 states (you need to check to see if you are covered).
While I do not like the way this was handled by TVHS, there are pluses and minuses on both sides. ALL of us need to actually ask the questions that are important to us as individuals, and determine which plan is best. Be very careful of generalizations, as what works very for one may be a disaster for another.
Hope this helps.

[Villager Joyce]

It absolutely amazes me the way some people behave. *Begin rant -Those of you that are infuriated about the TVH insurance change should educate yourselves a bit before showing your rear. Hopefully you have kept your letters about how you were grandfathered in for the rest of the existence that TVH has their doors open! Come on folks, be realistic. At the time of that letter there was no plan to go to only UHC MA. You were not conned. You were not lied to. You were not deceived. You were told that for the time being you would be taken care of. Things change. As far as TVH being money hungry devils....well, just an FYI they lose millions, yes plural, of dollars a year by accepting the other insurance carriers. Why, do you ask? Because in order to provide 30 minute appointments, in order to ensure that if you are in the hospital one of the TVH doctors see you, in order to ensure that there are 30 + open appointments available for call ins, in order to ensure that all of your care is coordinated through your primary, in order to ensure that you are taken care of and pampered the way you are-INSURANCE HAS TO PAY FOR IT!! BCBS said heck no, Cigna said not a chance, Humana wasn't biting, Aetna said no thanks. United Health Care said yes. These other insurance plans WILL NOT pay for these things! Please explain how TVH can continue to provide a 30 min appointment and only get paid for 12 minutes of it?! Will you accept being told they no longer offer 30 min appts because your ins will only pay for 10? No, you won't. Will you accept waiting 2 hours for your 10 min appt because the office had to schedule 30 patients for that doctor just to make the money to keep the doors open? Doubt it. At the end of the day you are just being whiney brats. TVH has not changed. They are still the best patient centered medical office in the state of Florida. They want nothing more than to continue to be the best and treat YOU, yes YOU the best. But open your eyes and realize that this kind of care has to be paid for. Like I said, MILLIONS of dollars lost. MILLIONS of dollars in the red! No, it's not so your doctor can drive home in a Mercedes. No, it's not so the medical director can get a yacht. No, it's not so the CEO can go skiing in the Swiss Alps. The whole world can't go into poverty so you can continue to sit pretty on your pedestal getting your butt powdered! - *end rant

Speaking of rants! You feel better now? You sure told us.

[Happydaz]

It absolutely amazes me the way some people behave. *Begin rant -Those of you that are infuriated about the TVH insurance change should educate yourselves a bit before showing your rear. Hopefully you have kept your letters about how you were grandfathered in for the rest of the existence that TVH has their doors open! Come on folks, be realistic. At the time of that letter there was no plan to go to only UHC MA. You were not conned. You were not lied to. You were not deceived. You were told that for the time being you would be taken care of. Things change. As far as TVH being money hungry devils....well, just an FYI they lose millions, yes plural, of dollars a year by accepting the other insurance carriers. Why, do you ask? Because in order to provide 30 minute appointments, in order to ensure that if you are in the hospital one of the TVH doctors see you, in order to ensure that there are 30 + open appointments available for call ins, in order to ensure that all of your care is coordinated through your primary, in order to ensure that you are taken care of and pampered the way you are-INSURANCE HAS TO PAY FOR IT!! BCBS said heck no, Cigna said not a chance, Humana wasn't biting, Aetna said no thanks. United Health Care said yes. These other insurance plans WILL NOT pay for these things! Please explain how TVH can continue to provide a 30 min appointment and only get paid for 12 minutes of it?! Will you accept being told they no longer offer 30 min appts because your ins will only pay for 10? No, you won't. Will you accept waiting 2 hours for your 10 min appt because the office had to schedule 30 patients for that doctor just to make the money to keep the doors open? Doubt it. At the end of the day you are just being whiney brats. TVH has not changed. They are still the best patient centered medical office in the state of Florida. They want nothing more than to continue to be the best and treat YOU, yes YOU the best. But open your eyes and realize that this kind of care has to be paid for. Like I said, MILLIONS of dollars lost. MILLIONS of dollars in the red! No, it's not so your doctor can drive home in a Mercedes. No, it's not so the medical director can get a yacht. No, it's not so the CEO can go skiing in the Swiss Alps. The whole world can't go into poverty so you can continue to sit pretty on your pedestal getting your butt powdered! - *end rant

The Villages' trollies for the past three years took visitors to new home areas to show the neighborhoods and types of homes available. The Trollies then went to one of the TVH centers to show the health care centers that were available to Village residents. They used TVH as a marketing tool to sell their houses. Many people bought here glad to know that quality and convenient healthcare would be available. It sounds like your rant is another example of a person who is not affected by this major change and has tired of the anger and disappointment of his fellow Villagers.

[Jayhawk]

The Villages' trollies for the past three years took visitors to new home areas to show the neighborhoods and types of homes available. The Trollies then went to one of the TVH centers to show the health care centers that were available to Village residents. They used TVH as a marketing tool to sell their houses. Many people bought here glad to know that quality and convenient healthcare would be available. It sounds like your rant is another example of a person who is not affected by this major change and has tired of the anger and disappointment of his fellow Villagers.


It is still available for anyone who has the accepted insurance. If you CHOOSE to have a different insurance provider, that is YOUR call.

Doctors all across this great land change accepted insurances periodically.

[Happydaz]

It is still available for anyone who has the accepted insurance. If you CHOOSE to have a different insurance provider, that is YOUR call.

Doctors all across this great land change accepted insurances periodically.

Do "doctors all across this great land" change their accepted insurances to only one plan? Can you give us other examples of other private physician groups that have rejected all other Medicare plans except one plan? United Health Care Advantage plan is the only plan TVH will accept for people turning 65 after January 1, 2017.

[golfing eagles]

The Villages' trollies for the past three years took visitors to new home areas to show the neighborhoods and types of homes available. The Trollies then went to one of the TVH centers to show the health care centers that were available to Village residents. They used TVH as a marketing tool to sell their houses. Many people bought here glad to know that quality and convenient healthcare would be available. It sounds like your rant is another example of a person who is not affected by this major change and has tired of the anger and disappointment of his fellow Villagers.

Actually, I think her "rant" was an excellent factual counterbalance to the primarily emotional response that has been dominating the threads on this subject. As rants go, I'll give it a 9.8/10

[golfing eagles]

Do "doctors all across this great land" change their accepted insurances to only one plan? Can you give us other examples of other private physician groups that have rejected all other Medicare plans except one plan? United Health Care Advantage plan is the only plan TVH will accept for people turning 65 after January 1, 2017.

If they were offered a huge bundle of cash to do so, they might.

[Bogie Shooter]

Speaking of rants! You feel better now? You sure told us.

Some needed to be told.

[Avista]

It absolutely amazes me the way some people behave. *Begin rant -Those of you that are infuriated about the TVH insurance change should educate yourselves a bit before showing your rear. Hopefully you have kept your letters about how you were grandfathered in for the rest of the existence that TVH has their doors open! Come on folks, be realistic. At the time of that letter there was no plan to go to only UHC MA. You were not conned. You were not lied to. You were not deceived. You were told that for the time being you would be taken care of. Things change. As far as TVH being money hungry devils....well, just an FYI they lose millions, yes plural, of dollars a year by accepting the other insurance carriers. Why, do you ask? Because in order to provide 30 minute appointments, in order to ensure that if you are in the hospital one of the TVH doctors see you, in order to ensure that there are 30 + open appointments available for call ins, in order to ensure that all of your care is coordinated through your primary, in order to ensure that you are taken care of and pampered the way you are-INSURANCE HAS TO PAY FOR IT!! BCBS said heck no, Cigna said not a chance, Humana wasn't biting, Aetna said no thanks. United Health Care said yes. These other insurance plans WILL NOT pay for these things! Please explain how TVH can continue to provide a 30 min appointment and only get paid for 12 minutes of it?! Will you accept being told they no longer offer 30 min appts because your ins will only pay for 10? No, you won't. Will you accept waiting 2 hours for your 10 min appt because the office had to schedule 30 patients for that doctor just to make the money to keep the doors open? Doubt it. At the end of the day you are just being whiney brats. TVH has not changed. They are still the best patient centered medical office in the state of Florida. They want nothing more than to continue to be the best and treat YOU, yes YOU the best. But open your eyes and realize that this kind of care has to be paid for. Like I said, MILLIONS of dollars lost. MILLIONS of dollars in the red! No, it's not so your doctor can drive home in a Mercedes. No, it's not so the medical director can get a yacht. No, it's not so the CEO can go skiing in the Swiss Alps. The whole world can't go into poverty so you can continue to sit pretty on your pedestal getting your butt powdered! - *end rant

Thank you for posting!

[Bogie Shooter]

Actually, I think her "rant" was an excellent factual counterbalance to the primarily emotional response that has been dominating the threads on this subject. As rants go, I'll give it a 9.8/10

This time, I agree with you.

[golfing eagles]

This time, I agree with you.

OMG, is this February 30th???:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Bogie Shooter]

OMG, is this February 30th???:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

I will keep you posted.........

[golfing eagles]

I will keep you posted.........

Thank you, sir

[Buffalo Jim]

Actually, I think her "rant" was an excellent factual counterbalance to the primarily emotional response that has been dominating the threads on this subject. As rants go, I'll give it a 9.8/10

I felt that it was /is a great post as a counter balance to all of the self-entitled histrionics that have been exhibited on this site .

It is tiresome to hear people constantly complain and imply some great underlying conspiracy to be at work and in this case allege some type of " bait and switch " tactic on the part of the Development Company which set up this amazing system .

Sadly our health care system has been destroyed by the voters allowing the Federal Government to take over 12% of our economy without nary a whimper followed by reelecting them all back into office.

Now we all get to reap what The Administration sowed . And now you are finally paying attention !

[RedChariot]

It absolutely amazes me the way some people behave. *Begin rant -Those of you that are infuriated about the TVH insurance change should educate yourselves a bit before showing your rear. Hopefully you have kept your letters about how you were grandfathered in for the rest of the existence that TVH has their doors open! Come on folks, be realistic. At the time of that letter there was no plan to go to only UHC MA. You were not conned. You were not lied to. You were not deceived. You were told that for the time being you would be taken care of. Things change. As far as TVH being money hungry devils....well, just an FYI they lose millions, yes plural, of dollars a year by accepting the other insurance carriers. Why, do you ask? Because in order to provide 30 minute appointments, in order to ensure that if you are in the hospital one of the TVH doctors see you, in order to ensure that there are 30 + open appointments available for call ins, in order to ensure that all of your care is coordinated through your primary, in order to ensure that you are taken care of and pampered the way you are-INSURANCE HAS TO PAY FOR IT!! BCBS said heck no, Cigna said not a chance, Humana wasn't biting, Aetna said no thanks. United Health Care said yes. These other insurance plans WILL NOT pay for these things! Please explain how TVH can continue to provide a 30 min appointment and only get paid for 12 minutes of it?! Will you accept being told they no longer offer 30 min appts because your ins will only pay for 10? No, you won't. Will you accept waiting 2 hours for your 10 min appt because the office had to schedule 30 patients for that doctor just to make the money to keep the doors open? Doubt it. At the end of the day you are just being whiney brats. TVH has not changed. They are still the best patient centered medical office in the state of Florida. They want nothing more than to continue to be the best and treat YOU, yes YOU the best. But open your eyes and realize that this kind of care has to be paid for. Like I said, MILLIONS of dollars lost. MILLIONS of dollars in the red! No, it's not so your doctor can drive home in a Mercedes. No, it's not so the medical director can get a yacht. No, it's not so the CEO can go skiing in the Swiss Alps. The whole world can't go into poverty so you can continue to sit pretty on your pedestal getting your butt powdered! - *end rant

With all due respect, May I ask how you know the facts that you are stating? You are stating you know that various insurance companies turned TVH down. That Tvh is millions of dollars are in the red. How do YOU know this? Are you a person that holds a position at TVH? I would think not. You seem a bit agitated. Yes people are emotional. Your rant is not helpful to them. IF you are a nurse, you should know that and tone down your response.

[Buffalo Jim]

With all due respect, May I ask how you know the facts that you are stating? You are stating you know that various insurance companies turned TVH down. That Tvh is millions of dollars are in the red. How do YOU know this? Are you a person that holds a position at TVH? I would think not. You seem a bit agitated. Yes people are emotional. Your rant is not helpful to them. IF you are a nurse, you should know that and tone down your response.


Wow just amazing !! The level of immaturity and whining on here is just something to behold .
No one here operating anything in the Villages are assigned the role to be our benevolent Mommy and Daddy .
These issues are driven by financial realities and not some scheme to be mean to anyone .
I am sure that you would not expect Publix to sell you a basket full of groceries week after week for less than they cost them to make them available to you .
This Health Delivery and Health Insurance Industry is a whole new world since Washington took it over . Recall they did not even know the details of what they had passed .
The real ongoing changes are just fully rolling out on the industry now . Those charged with creating the operating rules which drive all of the expenses are making changes and new rules as they go along .
Ultimately it has an impact on every provider and every consumer of health care products and services in the USA .
Back where I came down here from Canadians were swarming over the border to get treated by US Doctors and to get operated on in US Hospitals and they have to pay cash for everything no insurance .
Why -- because they can`t wait six months to get an operation to remove cancer or to settle for not being given a treatment because they are too old .

[Stdole]

The Village Trolley should now be called
"THE SUCKER BUS"

[n8xwb]

I totally disagree.....explain how they have no problem accepting my private insurance (Cigna) when I am 64 but will not accept Medicare B and my private insurance when I turn 65????? Any medical facility that accepts Medicare C (Advantage Plans) should be required to accept Medicare B.

[Jayhawk]

the village trolley should now be called
"the sucker bus"

60972

[Jayhawk]

I totally disagree.....explain how they have no problem accepting my private insurance (Cigna) when I am 64 but will not accept Medicare B and my private insurance when I turn 65????? Any medical facility that accepts Medicare C (Advantage Plans) should be required to accept Medicare B.

Easy, they are giving you time to make the change IF you still want their service and care. It's business. They are entitled to accept any insurance plan they want and refuse any they want.

Why is this so hard to understand?

[Barefoot]

...

[Barefoot]

Back where I came down here from Canadians were swarming over the border to get treated by US Doctors and to get operated on in US Hospitals and they have to pay cash for everything no insurance . Why -- because they can`t wait six months to get an operation to remove cancer or to settle for not being given a treatment because they are too old .As a Canadian with many older friends, I've never once heard of anyone waiting six months for an essential operation.
Or being refused treatment based on age. Never. :ohdear:

[CFrance]

I don't think anyone has the right to tell anyone else not to complain. People have a right to their opinions. The bottom line for me is that TV came out loud and strong with the Marcus Welby We're Going to Take Care of Everyone deal, then dropped that theme for the bottom dollar line. We never bought into the original hoopla, so it doesn't affect us, but I think people who believed in what they said have a right to complain.

[jchase]

You live in a dream world nurser girl! I totally disagree!

[Jayhawk]

I don't think anyone has the right to tell anyone else not to complain. People have a right to their opinions. The bottom line for me is that TV came out loud and strong with the Marcus Welby We're Going to Take Care of Everyone deal, then dropped that theme for the bottom dollar line. We never bought into the original hoopla, so it doesn't affect us, but I think people who believed in what they said have a right to complain.

Anyone who has made it 65 years without ever experiencing insurance policies that change or providers who accept them is about as unique as a unicorn. Every year people go through open enrollment because circumstances change, and nothing is ever promised past that year. Or do you have something in writing that says VHC would never make changes? If you do, then you may have an argument. If not, it's just complaining and feeling like a victim.

[Jayhawk]

As a Canadian with many older friends, I've never once heard of anyone waiting six months for an essential operation.
Or being refused treatment based on age. Never. :ohdear:

Buffalo Jim isn't far off according to this -

Waiting Your Turn: Wait Times for Health Care in Canada, 2015 Report | Fraser Institute (https://www.fraserinstitute.org/studies/waiting-your-turn-wait-times-for-health-care-in-canada-2015-report)

Specialist physicians surveyed report a median waiting time of 18.3 weeks between referral from a general practitioner and receipt of treatment—slightly longer than the 18.2 week wait reported in 2014. This year’s wait time is 97% longer than in 1993 when it was just 9.3 weeks.

[CFrance]

Anyone who has made it 65 years without ever experiencing insurance policies that change or providers who accept them is about as unique as a unicorn. Every year people go through open enrollment because circumstances change, and nothing is ever promised past that year. Or do you have something in writing that says VHC would never make changes? If you do, then you may have an argument. If not, it's just complaining and feeling like a victim.
Again, I am talking about two things: what was touted in the beginning to bring people in, and people's right to complain.

[Jayhawk]

Again, I am talking about two things: what was touted in the beginning to bring people in, and people's right to complain.

What was touted at the beginning never said everyone would be served. With 120,000 residents and doctors limited to 1,250 patients, there would need to be almost 100 PCP's not the 37 there are today.

And I really wouldn't have an issue with complaining if it was honest. But all the talk about "grandfathered" and everyone covered sets off the BS meter. If it's true, SHOW IT TO US. I, and others, are still waiting to see that "proof".

[NYGUY]

....You were told that for the time being you would be taken care of....

Too funny....no one ever said we would be taken care of for "the time being"....did God tell you he would only take care of you for the time being, until I make some necessary changes, did your spouse, did your mother, did your life insurance company, did your nursing school. No, they didn't say that. You let your fingers get carried away with your rant. We know you would like to keep your job and I hope you do!! But, you don't work in the finance department, or senior management. You don't know if what "they" tell you is fact.

[Buffalo Jim]

As a Canadian with many older friends, I've never once heard of anyone waiting six months for an essential operation.
Or being refused treatment based on age. Never. :ohdear:

I had a lawyer friend from Toronto who was pushed out 6 months for cancer surgery . He came to Buffalo and paid cash .
He would have died if he had waited .

I had a good friend in Buffalo who was also from Toronto . His Dad needed heart surgery but the " system " would not approve the surgery only would offer drugs .
He brought his father to Buffalo for surgery and paid cash and it saved his father`s life .
Another business associate had to bring his daughter into the US to get eye surgery which he could not get approved for her in Canada .
Another good friend had to bring his father to the US for Parkinson`s treatment and special drugs which he was denied in Canada .
In the Buffalo area there are many Doctors who crossed into the US to practice rather than work for the wages they could earn within the Canadian system .
Don`t get me wrong I love Canada but I know many many Canadians and medical professionals who do not like the current state of the government health system .
Please do not be offended I am just sharing the real experiences of several friends and business associates .

[Buffalo Jim]

Again, I am talking about two things: what was touted in the beginning to bring people in, and people's right to complain.

And on a public site such as this people also have a right to point out that a particular post may be factually incorrect or based entirely on emotions and not reason .

For example the Trolly should be called the " sucker bus " ?
Sounds like the remarks of a 12 year old !

[ColdNoMore]

And on a public site such as this people also have a right to point out that a particular post may be factually incorrect or based entirely on emotions and not reason .


Don't forget to include that a post may also be one from someone who either has a vested interest in trying to deceive those who are legitimately upset, or has even been given orders to protect the one causing all of this anguish.

Just trying to be fair. :ho:

[villagerjack]

Actually, I think her "rant" was an excellent factual counterbalance to the primarily emotional response that has been dominating the threads on this subject. As rants go, I'll give it a 9.8/10

Agree

[golfing eagles]

Just to point out and discuss another common theme on these threads----that UHC advantage restricts my choices so I cannot go see "the best".

There are 135 pages of participating physicians and just about every hospital in the region their handbook. It should not be all that hard to find a quality specialist. There are some hospitals, such as Shands and Mayo that do not participate. If you are already hooked into that system you have a tough choice

Now for a word about "the best":
Let's pick on cardiology as an example. There are 27,076 cardiologists in the US, 1854 in Florida. Only one can be "the best". But he/she cannot see 330 million patients, so somebody gets "second best", and third best, and so on down to 27,000th "best". There are minimum standards they all have to meet, I think the standard is too low, but I also understand that if the bar is set too high it will affect access to care.

So let's say you are "lucky" enough to get an appointment with "the best" cardiologist in the country. You will probably find that he is a zero personality academic jerk who pawns you off on his assistants as he rushes off to his research lab, or to his office to write his next paper for the NEJM, or to fulfill his teaching responsibilities. So why does he have a practice at all, you may ask:

1) It may be a requirement of his faculty position

2) It is fertile grounds to find new and unusual CASES. Note the word "cases", since in his world, you are not a patient, you are a "case"

3) It is fertile ground for him to find people to sign up for his latest experimental drug or procedure. That now makes you a "guinea pig" instead of a "case"

As far as my own care goes, give me a solid above average caring and personable cardiologist, say number 6 or 7000th on the list. I'll take him over "the best" any day.

I'd be interested if the other retired physicians and nurses agree with this assessment.

[Villageswimmer]

Likewise, has "the nurse" ever come back to give sources for his/her multiple "facts?"

Just sayin'.

[NotGolfer]

It absolutely amazes me the way some people behave. *Begin rant -Those of you that are infuriated about the TVH insurance change should educate yourselves a bit before showing your rear. Hopefully you have kept your letters about how you were grandfathered in for the rest of the existence that TVH has their doors open! Come on folks, be realistic. At the time of that letter there was no plan to go to only UHC MA. You were not conned. You were not lied to. You were not deceived. You were told that for the time being you would be taken care of. Things change. As far as TVH being money hungry devils....well, just an FYI they lose millions, yes plural, of dollars a year by accepting the other insurance carriers. Why, do you ask? Because in order to provide 30 minute appointments, in order to ensure that if you are in the hospital one of the TVH doctors see you, in order to ensure that there are 30 + open appointments available for call ins, in order to ensure that all of your care is coordinated through your primary, in order to ensure that you are taken care of and pampered the way you are-INSURANCE HAS TO PAY FOR IT!! BCBS said heck no, Cigna said not a chance, Humana wasn't biting, Aetna said no thanks. United Health Care said yes. These other insurance plans WILL NOT pay for these things! Please explain how TVH can continue to provide a 30 min appointment and only get paid for 12 minutes of it?! Will you accept being told they no longer offer 30 min appts because your ins will only pay for 10? No, you won't. Will you accept waiting 2 hours for your 10 min appt because the office had to schedule 30 patients for that doctor just to make the money to keep the doors open? Doubt it. At the end of the day you are just being whiney brats. TVH has not changed. They are still the best patient centered medical office in the state of Florida. They want nothing more than to continue to be the best and treat YOU, yes YOU the best. But open your eyes and realize that this kind of care has to be paid for. Like I said, MILLIONS of dollars lost. MILLIONS of dollars in the red! No, it's not so your doctor can drive home in a Mercedes. No, it's not so the medical director can get a yacht. No, it's not so the CEO can go skiing in the Swiss Alps. The whole world can't go into poverty so you can continue to sit pretty on your pedestal getting your butt powdered! - *end rant

Excellent post!!

[Villager Joyce]

Even if the nurse made a good point (not saying she did), I don't want someone speaking as an authority until he/she Reveals his/her sources of information and experience. its easy in this little word of nicknames to be anyone. In my previous life I was an astronaut who walked on the moon therefore I am an authority on everything.

[RedChariot]

Likewise, has "the nurse" ever come back to give sources for his/her multiple "facts?"

Just sayin'.

Still waiting.

[ColdNoMore]

Even if the nurse made a good point (not saying she did), I don't want someone speaking as an authority until he/she Reveals his/her sources of information and experience. its easy in this little word of nicknames to be anyone. In my previous life I was an astronaut who walked on the moon therefore I am an authority on everything.

You make an excellent point. :thumbup:


While this is certainly not meant to be a personal attack on the OP, I do believe someone who posted this...
…should educate yourselves a bit before showing your rear.
…At the end of the day you are just being whiney brats.
…so you can continue to sit pretty on your pedestal getting your butt powdered!
...is open to questions about their credentials.



In doing a search of earlier posts, she freely stated....

Well, I am born and raised in Lake County. I do not live in The Villages (hope to one day) I am in my 30s and a single mom to a 9 year old son I am not an RN I am technically not a nurse. I am a certified Medical Assistant. I would LOVE to go to LPN school but am unable to make it work right now. I have been working as a CMA for 2 years, before that I was a medical receptionist for 2 years. Unfortunately I do not have a great support system when it comes to being the best I can be because most people now want to cut corners and be lazy.

My point being that a 30 year old, who is unaffected by this change to TVH, is being pretty presumptuous (not to mention disrespectful) in name-calling to people who have obviously been successful enough in life to retire here.

I am also curious as to how this poster, who admits that she's not even a nurse, has become an insider as to the inner workings of the financials and decision making that typically wouldn't be shared with someone at her current level.

I am guessing that she's simply repeating what others who work with her have been telling her and also can't help but wonder if this 'rant,' was precipitated by being told that her job might be in jeopardy if enough people don't switch? Which is perfectly understandable, but whose comments should be taken with that agenda in mind.

So maybe the OP will come back and clear up/explain what I think are some very simple and common sense questions as to her actual knowledge and involvement. :shrug:

[Villageswimmer]

You make an excellent point. :thumbup:


While this is certainly not meant to be a personal attack on the OP, I do believe someone who posted this...

...is open to questions about their credentials.



In doing a search of earlier posts, she freely stated....


My point being that a 30 year old, who is unaffected by this change to TVH, is being pretty presumptuous (not to mention disrespectful) in name-calling to people who have obviously been successful enough in life to retire here.

I am also curious as to how this poster, who admits that she's not even a nurse, has become an insider as to the inner workings of the financials and decision making that typically wouldn't be shared with someone at her current level.

I am guessing that she's simply repeating what others who work with her have been telling her and also can't help but wonder if this 'rant,' was precipitated by being told that her job might be in jeopardy if enough people don't switch? Which is perfectly understandable, but whose comments should be taken with that agenda in mind.

So maybe the OP will come back and clear up/explain what I think are some very simple and common sense questions as to her actual knowledge and involvement. :shrug:


Doubtful. IMHO the post was not only full of unsubstantiated conjecture, it was crude and disrespectful. Excellent? Factual? Really?

[golfing eagles]

Doubtful. IMHO the post was not only full of unsubstantiated conjecture, it was crude and disrespectful. Excellent? Factual? Really?

Time to play devil's advocate and defend this, well, healthcare worker.

By the terminology and those parts of her post that fit the events, it is likely she is employed by TVH. We had a 7 physician practice with 48 employees, it was naïve to think that everyone, even the file clerks, did not have a pretty good idea of what was going on. That is the nature of a medical office. Even "rumors" weren't usually all that far off the mark. I think we were reading more than "conjecture"

I might have skipped the insulting wording, but is it any more crude or disrespectful than those that called TVH liars, or uncaring, or con artists???

If she is employed there, how could she possibly name sources? Not only would her job be at risk, but also anyone who told her anything.

In all likelihood, there is a lot of truth in her post, and I doubt the head of TVH would come out with the whole story.

[justjim]

As a Canadian with many older friends, I've never once heard of anyone waiting six months for an essential operation.
Or being refused treatment based on age. Never. :ohdear:

I have talked to several Canadian's that agree with you. With the current system in the U.S. trying to please everybody, nobody is pleased and it costs more.

[Villageswimmer]

Time to play devil's advocate and defend this, well, healthcare worker.

By the terminology and those parts of her post that fit the events, it is likely she is employed by TVH. We had a 7 physician practice with 48 employees, it was naïve to think that everyone, even the file clerks, did not have a pretty good idea of what was going on. That is the nature of a medical office. Even "rumors" weren't usually all that far off the mark. I think we were reading more than "conjecture"

I might have skipped the insulting wording, but is it any more crude or disrespectful than those that called TVH liars, or uncaring, or con artists???

If she is employed there, how could she possibly name sources? Not only would her job be at risk, but also anyone who told her anything.

In all likelihood, there is a lot of truth in her post, and I doubt the head of TVH would come out with the whole story.


Respectfully, I'll stand by "unsubstantiated conjecture" as a polite description.

If she does work for TVH as implied, I will say I see where she gets the attitude. I really sympathize with her and all their staff since it is likely they hear complaining all day long because of this decision which they had nothing to do with. It must be very stressful indeed and not make for a pleasant working environment.

If she's following this thread perhaps it was a learning experience on several levels. I wish her the best.

[golfing eagles]

Respectfully, I'll stand by "unsubstantiated conjecture" as a polite description.

If she does work for TVH as implied, I will say I see where she gets the attitude. I really sympathize with her and all their staff since it is likely they hear complaining all day long because of this decision which they had nothing to do with. It must be very stressful indeed and not make for a pleasant working environment.

If she's following this thread perhaps it was a learning experience on several levels. I wish her the best.


Ok, for argument's sake let's call it unsubstantiated conjecture. But if it happens to be true, we can call her a good guesser, but how does it diminish the truth of the situation?

[2BNTV]

It absolutely amazes me the way some people behave. *Begin rant -Those of you that are infuriated about the TVH insurance change should educate yourselves a bit before showing your rear. Hopefully you have kept your letters about how you were grandfathered in for the rest of the existence that TVH has their doors open! Come on folks, be realistic. At the time of that letter there was no plan to go to only UHC MA. You were not conned. You were not lied to. You were not deceived. You were told that for the time being you would be taken care of. Things change. As far as TVH being money hungry devils....well, just an FYI they lose millions, yes plural, of dollars a year by accepting the other insurance carriers. Why, do you ask? Because in order to provide 30 minute appointments, in order to ensure that if you are in the hospital one of the TVH doctors see you, in order to ensure that there are 30 + open appointments available for call ins, in order to ensure that all of your care is coordinated through your primary, in order to ensure that you are taken care of and pampered the way you are-INSURANCE HAS TO PAY FOR IT!! BCBS said heck no, Cigna said not a chance, Humana wasn't biting, Aetna said no thanks. United Health Care said yes. These other insurance plans WILL NOT pay for these things! Please explain how TVH can continue to provide a 30 min appointment and only get paid for 12 minutes of it?! Will you accept being told they no longer offer 30 min appts because your ins will only pay for 10? No, you won't. Will you accept waiting 2 hours for your 10 min appt because the office had to schedule 30 patients for that doctor just to make the money to keep the doors open? Doubt it. At the end of the day you are just being whiney brats. TVH has not changed. They are still the best patient centered medical office in the state of Florida. They want nothing more than to continue to be the best and treat YOU, yes YOU the best. But open your eyes and realize that this kind of care has to be paid for. Like I said, MILLIONS of dollars lost. MILLIONS of dollars in the red! No, it's not so your doctor can drive home in a Mercedes. No, it's not so the medical director can get a yacht. No, it's not so the CEO can go skiing in the Swiss Alps. The whole world can't go into poverty so you can continue to sit pretty on your pedestal getting your butt powdered! - *end rant


:bigbow: :bigbow: :bigbow:

There is a LOT of misinformation being spread (probably on both sides), but I spent almost an hour at a UHC healthcare office getting answers to my 23 or questions. Came out with a much better understanding of what I may or may NOT be giving up by dropping supplemental and going advantage. Next step is to go over this with SHINE, then wait until Oct 1 for the revised books.
BTW, there are THREE (3) insurance plans accepted by TVHS (not including the commercial/government plans), HMO1. HMO2, and PPO, in increasing monthly costs as listed. I have the three books and am just started comparing the plans to the supplemental we currently have.
There is coverage when you travel for emergency care, some coverage if you have a health problem (urgent care) while you are out of network. For those of you that are dual residence, there is the Passport system for 37 states (you need to check to see if you are covered).
While I do not like the way this was handled by TVHS, there are pluses and minuses on both sides. ALL of us need to actually ask the questions that are important to us as individuals, and determine which plan is best. Be very careful of generalizations, as what works very for one may be a disaster for another.
Hope this helps.

A very balanced point of view.

Actually, I think her "rant" was an excellent factual counterbalance to the primarily emotional response that has been dominating the threads on this subject. As rants go, I'll give it a 9.8/10

Spot on. :BigApplause:

[Buffalo Jim]

Don't forget to include that a post may also be one from someone who either has a vested interest in trying to deceive those who are legitimately upset, or has even been given orders to protect the one causing all of this anguish.

Just trying to be fair. :ho:

A conspiracy theory really ? Two people alone in a room can`t keep a secret .

Do you also believe that our astronauts did not really land on the Moon ?

Do you believe that the CIA and the " Military Industrial Complex " conspired to take out JFK ?

What would be the " upside " for an employee of the VHS to come on here and try to mislead everyone . So they can protect a job that pays them $52K per year ?
And what would be gained by the VHS by doing so ? Explain what the financial benefit to the business would be .

[Barefoot]

...

[maureenod]

Just for the record, the OP is not a nurse. She is a medical assistant and receptionist.

[dbussone]

Just to point out and discuss another common theme on these threads----that UHC advantage restricts my choices so I cannot go see "the best".



There are 135 pages of participating physicians and just about every hospital in the region their handbook. It should not be all that hard to find a quality specialist. There are some hospitals, such as Shands and Mayo that do not participate. If you are already hooked into that system you have a tough choice



Now for a word about "the best":

Let's pick on cardiology as an example. There are 27,076 cardiologists in the US, 1854 in Florida. Only one can be "the best". But he/she cannot see 330 million patients, so somebody gets "second best", and third best, and so on down to 27,000th "best". There are minimum standards they all have to meet, I think the standard is too low, but I also understand that if the bar is set too high it will affect access to care.



So let's say you are "lucky" enough to get an appointment with "the best" cardiologist in the country. You will probably find that he is a zero personality academic jerk who pawns you off on his assistants as he rushes off to his research lab, or to his office to write his next paper for the NEJM, or to fulfill his teaching responsibilities. So why does he have a practice at all, you may ask:



1) It may be a requirement of his faculty position



2) It is fertile grounds to find new and unusual CASES. Note the word "cases", since in his world, you are not a patient, you are a "case"



3) It is fertile ground for him to find people to sign up for his latest experimental drug or procedure. That now makes you a "guinea pig" instead of a "case"



As far as my own care goes, give me a solid above average caring and personable cardiologist, say number 6 or 7000th on the list. I'll take him over "the best" any day.



I'd be interested if the other retired physicians and nurses agree with this assessment.



I'm not a retired doc or nurse, but I did spend 40 years in hospital administration, including academic teaching hospitals. You are correct.

[inthemindofanurse]

I do not work for TVH. I have family that lives in the villages, a friend that works in billing, and a sister that works for Humana. Nothing I mentioned is anything that is kept under lock and key. Its information that can be researched and obtained by anyone willing to look. Also, I work for a primary care office in The Villages that will be gaining a lot of patients due to this change. What would I gain by boosting UP a competitor? I am nothing but a peon, I gain absolutely nothing. I am simply over all the boo-hooing.

[golfing eagles]

BuffaloJim, no worries, I am not offended by your remarks, not at all. It's just without knowing the specifics of a situation, it can't really be explored. No-one I know has experienced the types of situations you described. As far as being denied life-saving cancer treatment, sorry, but I don't believe that. Of course the Canadian Health Care System isn't perfect, but it's free. I've been reading about the angst caused by the recent VHS announcement. It sounds as if choosing a health care plan in the US is enormously complicated!

I've experienced two critical situations in my life. I've been put at the head of the line in Emerg by Triage, and received immediate and awesome treatment. I know a bit about our health-care system first-hand - one situation in 2005 required four months in hospital, where I received the best of care, completely free! But then I've heard people complain bitterly about wait time in Emerg when they've gone there with a cold! Two completely different senarios.

Elective surgeries have longer wait times. You mentioned a friend who took his daughter to the US for eye surgery. It's true that LASIK surgery isn't covered in Canada. But Cataract surgery certainly is!

Here is a situation I personally encountered recently. I returned to Canada from The Villages in May, in need of a knee replacement. I was told by an Orthopedic Surgeon at a small hospital close to my home that he has a Walt list of two years. So I drove for two hours to a Knee/Hip Clinic affiliated with a large Toronto Hospital which is known to have excellent wait times. I was approved for surgery in June and had a knee replacement July 6.

I think with flexibility and persistence, Canada offers excellent free healthcare.

I suspect that just as individual healthcare experiences in the U.S. vary greatly, the same is true in the Canadian system. For example, a resident in your town that could not travel to Toronto would be stuck with the two year wait. But you are deluding yourself by referring to it as "free" Income tax? GST? PST?. Nothing is "free", even Canada spends over 10% of its GDP on healthcare. But I do believe there is free care for lobsters.

[goodtimesintv]

Only a fool would decide to buy a house based on a tour-bus guide pointing out the nice medical office facilities nearby, and assume that translates to the developers (The Villages) being ready and waiting to be their medical nanny.

How many people decided to buy their previous homes because there were nice medical office complexes down the street????

It's actually scary to see how many people here expected their employer and its 'mean ole greedy' insurance company to be their medical nannies, and now they expect a builder-developer--who they brand 'greedy' while he subsidizes the huge underpayments from Medicare to keep the place afloat financially--to be their medical nanny.

The o.p. is right in her rant. Think for yourself!!!

Or is that too much work???

[rubicon]

My mother told me "If you can't say anything nice then don't say anything at all... You are not going to have The Villages aficionados admit anything remotely is wrong with TV.

[Buffalo Jim]

BuffaloJim, no worries, I am not offended by your remarks, not at all. It's just without knowing the specifics of a situation, it can't really be explored. No-one I know has experienced the types of situations you described. As far as being denied life-saving cancer treatment, sorry, but I don't believe that. Of course the Canadian Health Care System isn't perfect, but it's free. I've been reading about the angst caused by the recent VHS announcement. It sounds as if choosing a health care plan in the US is enormously complicated!

I've experienced two critical situations in my life. I've been put at the head of the line in Emerg by Triage, and received immediate and awesome treatment. I know a bit about our health-care system first-hand - one situation in 2005 required four months in hospital, where I received the best of care, completely free! But then I've heard people complain bitterly about wait time in Emerg when they've gone there with a cold! Two completely different senarios.

Elective surgeries have longer wait times. You mentioned a friend who took his daughter to the US for eye surgery. It's true that LASIK surgery isn't covered in Canada. But Cataract surgery certainly is!

Here is a situation I personally encountered recently. I returned to Canada from The Villages in May, in need of a knee replacement. I was told by an Orthopedic Surgeon at a small hospital close to my home that he has a Walt list of two years. So I drove for two hours to a Knee/Hip Clinic affiliated with a large Toronto Hospital which is known to have excellent wait times. I was approved for surgery in June and had a knee replacement July 6.

I think with flexibility and persistence, Canada offers excellent free healthcare.

It wasn`t Lasik [ cosmetic ' eye surgery . This young woman was age 16 at the time and a Nationally ranked doubles figure skater in Canada .
She developed a rare eye disorder which limited her vision and gave her constant blinding headaches so much so that she had to leave school and could only exist in a very dark room lying down .
Her parents were both corporate execs and they had many many connections in greater Toronto . Yet they were told that they had to wait for a very long time in order to see the type of specialist they needed .
So the parents brought her into the uS and found the treatment the girl needed . All in she lost nearly a full year of her life and suffered a great deal .
I am not trying to say that the Canadian system is bad . I am simply retelling the experiences I saw several f friends and acquaintances go thru .
Also I knew several Drs. who cam across the Border to practice in the US because they were not happy with the prospects for career satisfaction in the Canadian system .
Now having said all of the above I do sincerely believe that the Canadian System is going to eventually prove to be much superior to what we are headed for in the US under the new system .
So called " Obama Care " is still rolling out . Regulations will be changing annually for several more years and I much doubt that Americans will be pleased with what it will eventually turn out to be .
In fact I predict that our voters will demand many changes and the roll-back of numerous regulations created by this still new legislation .

[Challenger]

I suspect that just as individual healthcare experiences in the U.S. vary greatly, the same is true in the Canadian system. For example, a resident in your town that could not travel to Toronto would be stuck with the two year wait. But you are deluding yourself by referring to it as "free" Income tax? GST? PST?. Nothing is "free", even Canada spends over 10% of its GDP on healthcare. But I do believe there is free care for lobsters.

John Maynard Keynes "There is no such thing as a free lunch"

[dbussone]

BuffaloJim, no worries, I am not offended by your remarks, not at all. It's just without knowing the specifics of a situation, it can't really be explored. No-one I know has experienced the types of situations you described. As far as being denied life-saving cancer treatment, sorry, but I don't believe that. Of course the Canadian Health Care System isn't perfect, but it's free. I've been reading about the angst caused by the recent VHS announcement. It sounds as if choosing a health care plan in the US is enormously complicated!



I've experienced two critical situations in my life. I've been put at the head of the line in Emerg by Triage, and received immediate and awesome treatment. I know a bit about our health-care system first-hand - one situation in 2005 required four months in hospital, where I received the best of care, completely free! But then I've heard people complain bitterly about wait time in Emerg when they've gone there with a cold! Two completely different senarios.



Elective surgeries have longer wait times. You mentioned a friend who took his daughter to the US for eye surgery. It's true that LASIK surgery isn't covered in Canada. But Cataract surgery certainly is!



Here is a situation I personally encountered recently. I returned to Canada from The Villages in May, in need of a knee replacement. I was told by an Orthopedic Surgeon at a small hospital close to my home that he has a Walt list of two years. So I drove for two hours to a Knee/Hip Clinic affiliated with a large Toronto Hospital which is known to have excellent wait times. I was approved for surgery in June and had a knee replacement July 6.



I think with flexibility and persistence, Canada offers excellent free healthcare.



Bare - I've had the pleasure of consulting at a couple of large Canadian hospitals. In general I believe the system is quite good, but it does have some issues. For one, physician and nurse pay is not competitive. I've been successful in recruiting both docs and nurses to my US hospitals.

There are some procedures (cardiac surgery and some other tertiary level procedures) which have prolonged waits. Certain hospitals in the northern US have a thriving business in recruiting Canadians for these procedures. Paying cash has not been an issue since purchasing private insurance for care outside of the government system has been a practice by many Canadians for some time.

Now, there are also some reverse practices going on where US citizens go for care to see world class Canadian physicians for procedures like lung transplants. Top flight Canadian hospitals can charge Americans cash (and insurance payments) for certain treatments. This supplements their inadequate governmental funding. (That was one of the things I was helping them with.)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Villager Joyce]

Let's change the circumstances for discussing purposes. What if starting August 1st you have to pay $1 each time you play golf or go in a pool or take a class or drive on the MMP? Sure it's different, but it's the same. We didn't purchase our house because of VHS but at the same time we didn't purchase in another area because it was 20 miles to the closest health facility. We didn't purchase our house because the pools are free and golf is free, etc., but it was all part of the reason we wanted and still want to live here. This to us is a minor bleep on the radar, but it is important to many and I respect that.

[golfing eagles]

Let's change the circumstances for discussing purposes. What if starting August 1st you have to pay $1 each time you play golf or go in a pool or take a class or drive on the MMP? Sure it's different, but it's the same. We didn't purchase our house because of VHS but at the same time we didn't purchase in another area because it was 20 miles to the closest health facility. We didn't purchase our house because the pools are free and golf is free, etc., but it was all part of the reason we wanted and still want to live here. This to us is a minor bleep on the radar, but it is important to many and I respect that.

Sorry, bad analogy. You can't equate an amenity with a newly organized health care CHOICE. The equivalent to what the disenfranchised are complaining about would be if TV started charging $20 per round on the executive courses, after "free golf for life" was promoted ad nauseam. But in the case of TVH, there is no evidence that any equivalent promise was made.

[Villager Joyce]

Sorry, bad analogy. You can't equate an amenity with a newly organized health care CHOICE. The equivalent to what the disenfranchised are complaining about would be if TV started charging $20 per round on the executive courses, after "free golf for life" was promoted ad nauseam. But in the case of TVH, there is no evidence that any equivalent promise was made.

VHS was implied when we looked at the houses to purchase. When the changes were first being discussed, it was implied we would be grandfathered. I like my analogy.

[CFrance]

VHS was implied when we looked at the houses to purchase. When the changes were first being discussed, it was implied we would be grandfathered. I like my analogy.
I like your analogy too. Promises made to bring in business; promises not kept.

[golfing eagles]

VHS was implied when we looked at the houses to purchase. When the changes were first being discussed, it was implied we would be grandfathered. I like my analogy.

I love you, Joyce, but....

I still have my house in NY for sale. I'd be happy to IMPLY it is flawless. I'll IMPLY the taxes are low. I'll IMPLY it will double in value over the next 10 years. When can I expect your check????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[ColdNoMore]

As a Canadian with many older friends, I've never once heard of anyone waiting six months for an essential operation.
Or being refused treatment based on age. Never. :ohdear:

It's funny how an anecdotal (or even made up) story/stories can take a life of their own.

Very similar to the story/stories about all of us old folks here in TV, spending our time golfing/drinking/having orgies and walking around with our private parts about to fall off due to STD's. :D

I have had the good fortune to have worked with, and become friends with, scores of Canadians and have many times discussed the primary difference in our country's views on health of its citizens.

Long before ACA, I have personally never run across a Canadian that would have changed places with me even though I have a 'Rolls Royce' (even better than a Cadillac :p ) health insurance.

When I brought up all of the stories being bandied about in regards to being denied or waiting an unacceptably long time to receive treatment for a serious condition, they all said that it's possible that it might happen occasionally, but none of them had ever known of anyone that "died waiting to get in for a procedure" or even an untenable waiting time to get treatment for something serious or needed. :shrug:

Which is a lot different story than some people here in the States would want others of us to believe. :oops:

Something one of my closer friends once said has always stuck with me. He stated that it seemed to him that our country placed more emphasis ensuring the stability of those companies that made weapons of war (military industrial complex), than the health of ALL of its own citizens. His exact quote, as I recall was.... "a lot of you Americans seem to have the attitude toward your own fellow citizens of...I have mine, screw you."

Once again, this was long before Obamacare. That particular discussion stuck with me for years and is the reason I was glad to see something being done about insuring more fellow Americans and also eliminating the pre-existing condition exclusion, that so many insurance companies used (unless you were part of a large group plan) to exclude some people from getting the care they needed.

Anyway Barefoot, more than anything I wanted to let you know that as a group, I find Canadians to be at the top of the list of being the nicest, most reasonable, and caring folks that I personally had the pleasure of knowing. :thumbup:


PS. All is not perfect with you folks though. It does tick me off that y'all have had the ability to vacation in Cuba and bring back/own Cuban cigars. :grumpy::cus:


:D

[CFrance]

I love you, Joyce, but....

I still have my house in NY for sale. I'd be happy to IMPLY it is flawless. I'll IMPLY the taxes are low. I'll IMPLY it will double in value over the next 10 years. When can I expect your check????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:
Your house in NY... everything is traceable. Taxes, history of valuation over the years. Comparable sale prices in your neighborhood. You must report at listing anything you know is wrong with the house, unless NY is different from the rest of the US. Otherwise you can be sued for non disclosure. Different situation from VHS.

We were told there would be a buildout in two years back in 2011. Ha ha. The Doctor Welby promotion was a marketing tool they never knew if they could uphold. I'm glad we didn't buy into it. We have the most wonderful doctor outside of the villages who saved my husband's life by recognizing a rare disease. And now that we have such trust in him, I am happy to know nothing can keep us away from his care.

[golfing eagles]

Your house in NY... everything is traceable. Taxes, history of valuation over the years. Comparable sale prices in your neighborhood. You must report at listing anything you know is wrong with the house, unless NY is different from the rest of the US. Otherwise you can be sued for non disclosure. Different situation from VHS.


OK, let me re-phrase. I'll IMPLY that there will be a new shopping mall built and IMPLY that there are plans for 6 new championship golf courses and IMPLY a new stadium seating Cinebistro is being built. Now it's the same. Of course, I won't put any of that in writing.....

[CFrance]

OK, let me re-phrase. I'll IMPLY that there will be a new shopping mall built and IMPLY that there are plans for 6 new championship golf courses and IMPLY a new stadium seating Cinebistro is being built. Now it's the same. Of course, I won't put any of that in writing.....
Okay. But a lot different than playing around with someone's health care, IMO.

[Jayhawk]

We have the most wonderful doctor outside of the villages who saved my husband's life by recognizing a rare disease. And now that we have such trust in him, I am happy to know nothing can keep us away from his care.

That's where you are wrong. Your "wonderful doctor" may change what he accepts for insurance any time. Then what will you say?

[JoMar]

Too funny....no one ever said we would be taken care of for "the time being"....did God tell you he would only take care of you for the time being, until I make some necessary changes, did your spouse, did your mother, did your life insurance company, did your nursing school. No, they didn't say that. You let your fingers get carried away with your rant. We know you would like to keep your job and I hope you do!! But, you don't work in the finance department, or senior management. You don't know if what "they" tell you is fact.

When I moved here two years ago I was told that my insurance would be accepted "for now" but TVHC was associated with UHC and there was a possibility that could change going forward. I changed because a review of BCBS in PA was superior to BCBS in FL and UHC Advantage was better than BCBS FL but, I was told that if I went with BCBS there was no guarantee how long it would be accepted. So, yeah they did say that.

[Jayhawk]

I like your analogy too. Promises made to bring in business; promises not kept.

Could you share a COPY of those promises, or is this just your understanding?

[JoMar]

Likewise, has "the nurse" ever come back to give sources for his/her multiple "facts?"

Just sayin'.

Actually what she said makes sense......even without documentation. The fact that is relavant is that this is about business and profit. You may choose to believe that or not, but I doubt there is much more to it than that.

[rexxfan]

Why -- because they can`t wait six months to get an operation to remove cancer or to settle for not being given a treatment because they are too old .
Aye, and in the end they won't have that option because our system will have been transformed into one where those same waiting times and rationing will be the norm. Hey, but at least everyone will have insurance. Heh. Sigh.
--
Bob C

[aaffmom]

The Villages' trollies for the past three years took visitors to new home areas to show the neighborhoods and types of homes available. The Trollies then went to one of the TVH centers to show the health care centers that were available to Village residents. They used TVH as a marketing tool to sell their houses. Many people bought here glad to know that quality and convenient healthcare would be available. It sounds like your rant is another example of a person who is not affected by this major change and has tired of the anger and disappointment of his fellow Villagers.

Maybe they work for The Villages

[Jayhawk]

60992

[ColdNoMore]

Doubtful. IMHO the post was not only full of unsubstantiated conjecture, it was crude and disrespectful. Excellent? Factual? Really?

I couldn't agree more. :thumbup:

[rexxfan]

As a Canadian with many older friends, I've never once heard of anyone waiting six months for an essential operation.
Or being refused treatment based on age. Never. :ohdear:
Who decides its "essential"? Just wondering.
--
Bob C

[CFrance]

That's where you are wrong. Your "wonderful doctor" may change what he accepts for insurance any time. Then what will you say?
He would have to stop accepting Medicare period. We have medigap insurance that is good anywhere that accepts Medicare. He is private, not in a group, and not beholden to any higher authority. I chose OB's that way long ago and have always chosen doctors that way as well.

Sure he could decide not to accept Medicare, but that is less likely than what is happening with "Dr. Welby-promoted" VHS.

Don't know what your agenda is, Jayhawk. People are being cast off after promises of great care. I call that false advertising.

[Mikeod]

After reading all these posts and threads, I would like to offer this. Initially, VHS was created to provide a system of health care that differed from the usual in that providers would be allocated more time to spend with their patients. In order to accomplish this, each doctor’s panel would have to be limited so that access was optimal while still spending more time at each visit. Proud of this “innovative” health care system, The Villages promoted it in their literature and in sales visits.
However, this plan flies in the face of current medical economics, where, because reimbursements to providers is the primary place bureaucrats choose to limit the growth of health care costs, practitioners need to schedule as tightly as possible. Thus, VHS at the beginning was heading down a path unlikely to succeed. It would seem they hoped more patients would opt for the MA plan that provided a more consistent flow of income, but that didn’t happen. The primary reason for that is, as seen in these posts, people already had plans either wholly or partly paid by a former/current employer or had plans that provided them the freedom of choice they desired. As a result, revenue expectations were not being met. The disparity between the reimbursement plans and the lump sum from the MA plans is significant. Thus the push for the UHC plan.
Did they anticipate this happening? I don’t think so. I think the same thing happened with Moffitt and USF. Both anticipated greater revenue from MA plans than actually occurred. Both pulled the plug when losses mounted. VHS faces the same dilemma. If they closed down instead of limiting insurance plans, would we be any better off? As far as the director of VHS being the same person that was in charge of the USF plan, I remember reading that he moved to VHS because he believed in what they were trying to do. I have had friends in primary care in various practice models. The burnout rate is high and the satisfaction is low. The VHS model looks better for both patient and provider.

[HimandMe]

As a Canadian with many older friends, I've never once heard of anyone waiting six months for an essential operation.
Or being refused treatment based on age. Never. :ohdear:

My kids live in Canada, and this is true. Furthermore, speak to almost any Canadian, they value their healthcare system highly. It's not without fault but better than most but it began 50-60 years ago when perhaps things were simpler and so many others (pharmaceutical, insurance companies etc. etc.) were not making huge amounts off those sick and dying. Another difference is that Canada unlike here has encouraged more general practitioners than specialists. I heard 80-20% with GPs front liners the largest group...and they do more in office). We have a major shortage of GPs to our detriment.

You cannot compare the Canadian system negatively or positively to ours as it's different and has an almost 60 year head start.

[goodtimesintv]

He would have to stop accepting Medicare period. We have medigap insurance that is good anywhere that accepts Medicare. He is private, not in a group, and not beholden to any higher authority. I chose OB's that way long ago and have always chosen doctors that way as well.

Sure he could decide not to accept Medicare, but that is less likely than what is happening with "Dr. Welby-promoted" VHS.

Don't know what your agenda is, Jayhawk. People are being cast off after promises of great care. I call that false advertising.

Oh, but your doctor--the kind of doctor I value, too--IS "beholden to a higher authority", which is Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

I would count on nothing when it comes to government and private insurers, because both are in bed together via politicians and lobbyists!

See the full story on this, the most-read article this week on this blog, "Social media's leading physician voice":

How MACRA will decimate the private practice physician

"....Recently, I attended an “informational listening session” for rural physicians, sponsored by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to learn more about the new MACRA proposal known as MIPS/APM (Merit-Based Incentive Payment System/Alternative Payment Model.) This plan will penalize 7 out of 10 small 1 to 2 physician practices in this country. Why? Because we will be overwhelmed complying with statistical reporting demands that do nothing to enhance the quality of care, instead of spending precious time seeing patients.

I inquired as to how CMS proposes to ease our burden of data reporting.

“I am not sure, but leave a website comment and someone might consider your needs.”

Not likely. A family practice physician described how technical mistakes at the claims clearinghouse froze her Medicare payments for eight months.

“Thank God my father died and left me a small inheritance,” she said.

Otherwise, her solo practice would have gone bankrupt. Is this the future of medical care in this country? Over 50 percent of her patients are on Medicare. If we allow this MACRA atrocity to go into effect, who will be left to care for the sick, disabled, and elderly?...."

How MACRA will decimate the private practice physician (http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2016/07/macra-will-decimate-private-practice-physician.html)

[dbussone]

After reading all these posts and threads, I would like to offer this. Initially, VHS was created to provide a system of health care that differed from the usual in that providers would be allocated more time to spend with their patients. In order to accomplish this, each doctor’s panel would have to be limited so that access was optimal while still spending more time at each visit. Proud of this “innovative” health care system, The Villages promoted it in their literature and in sales visits.
However, this plan flies in the face of current medical economics, where, because reimbursements to providers is the primary place bureaucrats choose to limit the growth of health care costs, practitioners need to schedule as tightly as possible. Thus, VHS at the beginning was heading down a path unlikely to succeed. It would seem they hoped more patients would opt for the MA plan that provided a more consistent flow of income, but that didn’t happen. The primary reason for that is, as seen in these posts, people already had plans either wholly or partly paid by a former/current employer or had plans that provided them the freedom of choice they desired. As a result, revenue expectations were not being met. The disparity between the reimbursement plans and the lump sum from the MA plans is significant. Thus the push for the UHC plan.
Did they anticipate this happening? I don’t think so. I think the same thing happened with Moffitt and USF. Both anticipated greater revenue from MA plans than actually occurred. Both pulled the plug when losses mounted. VHS faces the same dilemma. If they closed down instead of limiting insurance plans, would we be any better off? As far as the director of VHS being the same person that was in charge of the USF plan, I remember reading that he moved to VHS because he believed in what they were trying to do. I have had friends in primary care in various practice models. The burnout rate is high and the satisfaction is low. The VHS model looks better for both patient and provider.



Mike - I tend to agree with the first part of you post. However, when you initiate discussion about USF & Moffitt, I think your premise is not correct. Let's start with Moffitt. It is a great cancer research institute- but it's primary relationship, I believe, was with The Villages Regional Hospital and the developer. The promise was that Moffitt would develop a second campus, somewhat equivalent to its Tampa campus. That was never going to happen. The cost involved in duplicating research and teaching facilities in TV could never happen - too cost prohibitive. In addition, it is highly unlikely that world class researchers would wish to relocate to a semi-rural area in central FL. After all, this is not Gainesville.

As far as USF goes, it's faculty practice plan (I.e., it's docs) most likely over promised and definitely under delivered. Their expectation, IMO, was that the hospital or some entity would highly subsidize them, so that their practice fees represent profit. This is a common model with faculty physicians and their outreach efforts. Again, though, it was probably difficult for the practice plan to convince research/teacher/practitioners to locate here. The itinerant schedule used instead likely did not suit the patients or referring physicians.

IMO both organizations saw $$$ that were not going to happen. And it was not from the MA plans. Both organizations seek private funds whenever possible because of the uncertainty associated with public funding. As I noted above , these organizations like to develop relationships with entities that will fund physician base salaries at a minimum, then generate fee for service or per member per month fees that represent organizational profit. They believe they are superior to community physicians offering the same or similar services - sometimes that is true, sometimes it's not.

Moffitt, as I would have expected, learned that patients would travel to Tampa for advanced care. Therefore, why duplicate their Tampa campus here. So they essentially trashed their agreement with TVRH and the developer.

USF was unable to generate significant referrals from physicians who weren't part of the Villages Health System. After all, they came here to assist a group of docs (the Villages Health System) that was competing with community docs with existing practices.

The developer and those that run TVRH are intelligent and business-like. The $$$ were not happening and USF/Moffitt finally figured that out. Value is in the eye of the beholder and I believe USF and Moffitt were on the negative side of the equation...just my opinion, and some career based knowledge.

[Barefoot]

But you are deluding yourself by referring to it as "free" Income tax? GST? PST?.
Of course Canadian health care isn't free. It's funded by residents of Canada.
However Canadians don't have monthly health care premiums and health care is available to all without charge.
I also refer to The Villages as having "free golf for life". Obviously also funded by residents.

[dbussone]

Of course Canadian health care isn't free. It's funded by residents of Canada.

However Canadians don't have monthly health care premiums and health care is available to all without charge.

I also refer to The Villages as having "free golf for life". Obviously also funded by residents.



And their yearly cart fees. [emoji41] Feel better Bare.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Barefoot]

Feel better Bare.
Thanks for the good wishes, I appreciate them. :highfive:
I'm really sorry I ever got involved in defending "free" health care in Canada.
This is a thread about The Villages Health Care System, and obviously feelings run deep.
It's not the time to be discussing international health care policies.

[kja966]

I am a working family practice physician looking at retiring to TV in 3 months. The original post actually contains some very believable information. This is not isolated to TV but is a nationwide phenomena. Budget cutting, pink slips, higher patient loads and a lot more documentation has been the norm since the Affordable Care Act (quite misnamed) started to bite. When I first bought in TV about 4 years ago I heard the flowering reports from friends of the "Marcus Welby" style of health care. I considered it a fairy tale as the only way to provide that level of service is either concierge medicine (say an extra 3-7K a year) or a white knight willing to heavily subsidize the plan. Otherwise its not (to use one of the current fashionable buzzwords) sustainable. Did they really think they had found the holy grail no one else has found? Two patients and hour won't pay for a medical assistant, receptionist, triage specialist and the100k a year for the electronic medical record. I don't know what UHC is paying for the standard medical visit (99214 ICDM code) but I doubt it covers 30 min. Economics says if you want to stay afloat you see at least 4 patients per hour and 6 if you can do it. Specialists can give more time but they charge a lot more. A 5 min dermatology visit can run $400 retail which is reduced by insurance company contract to $80.
One of the new wrinkles of Obamacare is physicians and hospitals have part of their income determined by "patient satisfaction". This is a total wild card as few send the surveys in unless they have an ax to grind. In short medical systems are cutting costs and consolidating because of declining revenues. TV is not immune, and its not finished yet. Shortage of providers is on the horizon which will push wait times into months. Urgent Care waits will typically be 4 hours or more and ER's will be jam packed. A good analogy is kind of like a gallon of milk is only $1 - if you can find anyone who has it.

[dbussone]

Thanks for the good wishes, I appreciate them. :highfive:

I'm really sorry I ever got involved in defending "free" health care in Canada.

This is a thread about The Villages Health Care System, and obviously feelings run deep.

It's not the time to be discussing international health care policies.



You have every right to discuss the Canadian system. It has its positives and negatives, but more pluses than minuses. Some of us who posted on this thread know a little about your system, but you know more. No harm in sticking up for something you believe in.

But could you please bring some lobster back when you return to TV? I won't tell GE!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[wendyquat]

I, for one, do not see why someone who is obviously not affected by this Medicare Advantage fiasco (for lack of a better word) is commenting at all! It's perfectly sane that those of us that are affected can express and share our disappointment! No, we did not receive "in writing" a promise that we would always be covered by VHS but it was pretty strongly IMPLIED since they had built and we're building beautiful and permanent offices and hiring many staff members! I do not blame the developer at all and I do understand that it comes down to making payroll BUT BUT BUT I do resent the manner with which it was presented with absolutely NO mention or "we're sorry for the inconvenience this has caused you"! It's not as if it weren't IMPLIED (I believe someone loves this word) that we would enjoy the Marcus Welby concept. After all, how many times did we hear it? Again, if it doesn't affect you, just BUTT OUT! Skip the thread! Move on!

[rubicon]

A conspiracy theory really ? Two people alone in a room can`t keep a secret .

Do you also believe that our astronauts did not really land on the Moon ?

Do you believe that the CIA and the " Military Industrial Complex " conspired to take out JFK ?

What would be the " upside " for an employee of the VHS to come on here and try to mislead everyone . So they can protect a job that pays them $52K per year ?
And what would be gained by the VHS by doing so ? Explain what the financial benefit to the business would be .

Buffalo Jim: In all due respect and for the simple reason of offering an alternative view ,in that same vein then I ask what or why would a resident feel the need to defend the Developer, The Villages or anything remotely related to the aforementioned? I long ago gave up the idea that people think, feel and emote the same. In this case this employee may be responding out of some sense of loyalty to her employer while perhaps other employees in her /his office may agree with posters who are angry. Also patients, customers etc do not always experience the same thing. A business may be performing at their peak one day and for a variety of reasons fail the next. Customers can only judge by their experience. I believe the same principle applies to residents here

To thine own self be true

[rubicon]

Your house in NY... everything is traceable. Taxes, history of valuation over the years. Comparable sale prices in your neighborhood. You must report at listing anything you know is wrong with the house, unless NY is different from the rest of the US. Otherwise you can be sued for non disclosure. Different situation from VHS.

We were told there would be a buildout in two years back in 2011. Ha ha. The Doctor Welby promotion was a marketing tool they never knew if they could uphold. I'm glad we didn't buy into it. We have the most wonderful doctor outside of the villages who saved my husband's life by recognizing a rare disease. And now that we have such trust in him, I am happy to know nothing can keep us away from his care.

Your right "if you buy here you can keep our healthcare system" Imply in any language if not kept means bait and switch. The marketing people are good at what they do...They are so good, they could sell two milking machines to a farmer that owns one cow.:D

[CFrance]

I, for one, do not see why someone who is obviously not affected by this Medicare Advantage fiasco (for lack of a better word) is commenting at all! It's perfectly sane that those of us that are affected can express and share our disappointment! No, we did not receive "in writing" a promise that we would always be covered by VHS but it was pretty strongly IMPLIED since they had built and we're building beautiful and permanent offices and hiring many staff members! I do not blame the developer at all and I do understand that it comes down to making payroll BUT BUT BUT I do resent the manner with which it was presented with absolutely NO mention or "we're sorry for the inconvenience this has caused you"! It's not as if it weren't IMPLIED (I believe someone loves this word) that we would enjoy the Marcus Welby concept. After all, how many times did we hear it? Again, if it doesn't affect you, just BUTT OUT! Skip the thread! Move on!
And I believe everyone has the right to express an opinion about everything, whether they're directly involved or not. And actually, I could have been directly affected had we gone with the Marcus Welby marketing campaign and signed up with them at the beginning. And in the end it's indicative of how things are run in TV, and I have opinions on that. Finally, I believe I have every right to voice opinions on anything here, as this is a forum for people to exchange ideas.

I have an opinion on abortion rights, too, even though I no longer could get pregnant...

[outlaw]

OK, let me re-phrase. I'll IMPLY that there will be a new shopping mall built and IMPLY that there are plans for 6 new championship golf courses and IMPLY a new stadium seating Cinebistro is being built. Now it's the same. Of course, I won't put any of that in writing.....

And those actions by you would be considered dishonest/unethical by an honest person...which makes me wonder about someone that actually thinks those actions are perfectly acceptable.

[wendyquat]

And I believe everyone has the right to express an opinion about everything, whether they're directly involved or not. And actually, I could have been directly affected had we gone with the Marcus Welby marketing campaign and signed up with them at the beginning. And in the end it's indicative of how things are run in TV, and I have opinions on that. Finally, I believe I have every right to voice opinions on anything here, as this is a forum for people to exchange ideas.

I have an opinion on abortion rights, too, even though I no longer could get pregnant...

You've made my point! We have every right to express our opinions. Why should we be accused of whining?

[Happydaz]

And I believe everyone has the right to express an opinion about everything, whether they're directly involved or not. And actually, I could have been directly affected had we gone with the Marcus Welby marketing campaign and signed up with them at the beginning. And in the end it's indicative of how things are run in TV, and I have opinions on that. Finally, I believe I have every right to voice opinions on anything here, as this is a forum for people to exchange ideas.

I have an opinion on abortion rights, too, even though I no longer could get pregnant...

Great post! I agree that people have a right to express their opinion without fear. That is what makes the United States such a great country. On another note I realized recently that three years ago I not only joined the Villages Healthcare system, but I also joined the Villages Citizens Bank. Since they don't accept my insurance anymore I am not going to stay with their bank anymore. I am moving my accounts to Chase. Freedom!

[Villager Joyce]

And those actions by you would be considered dishonest/unethical by an honest person...which makes me wonder about someone that actually thinks those actions are perfectly acceptable.

I couldn't pick GE out of a line-up of two, but I have always thought and continue to think of him as an honorable man.

[outlaw]

I couldn't pick GE out of a line-up of two, but I have always thought and continue to think of him as an honorable man.

And sometimes you think you know someone....I sure wouldn't buy a used car from someone who thinks what TVH is doing is acceptable behavior.

[ColdNoMore]

Buffalo Jim: In all due respect and for the simple reason of offering an alternative view ,in that same vein then I ask what or why would a resident feel the need to defend the Developer, The Villages or anything remotely related to the aforementioned? I long ago gave up the idea that people think, feel and emote the same. In this case this employee may be responding out of some sense of loyalty to her employer while perhaps other employees in her /his office may agree with posters who are angry. Also patients, customers etc do not always experience the same thing. A business may be performing at their peak one day and for a variety of reasons fail the next. Customers can only judge by their experience. I believe the same principle applies to residents here

To thine own self be true

Excellent points and observations. :thumbup:

[graciegirl]

I couldn't pick GE out of a line-up of two, but I have always thought and continue to think of him as an honorable man.

I agree. VERY much agree. And I think that there are a couple or three who always stir things up. I wouldn't recognize any of them. But I would hug the eagle and frown at the smart alecks but we may never know what their real names are. Golfing Eagles has introduced himself in a PM. My husband says anonymous people can say anything.

This kind of statement from me is usually followed by a barrage of comments about how dangerous it is to disclose your identity on the internet. I say the nasty ones never come to the Crispers meetings.

[graciegirl]

And I believe everyone has the right to express an opinion about everything, whether they're directly involved or not. And actually, I could have been directly affected had we gone with the Marcus Welby marketing campaign and signed up with them at the beginning. And in the end it's indicative of how things are run in TV, and I have opinions on that. Finally, I believe I have every right to voice opinions on anything here, as this is a forum for people to exchange ideas.

I have an opinion on abortion rights, too, even though I no longer could get pregnant...

I would have loved to be part of Villages health. It is very hard to find a PCP here in TV who you can understand, has sterling credentials, (remember the doc that was arrested for drunk driving and had loose pills in her car?) is board certified or isn't an alternative medicine quack.

As for defending The Villages., I think it is a great, well run and making it's owners very rich. AND that ****es a lot of people off. They are jealous, but the owners risked their OWN money for expansion. They could have chosen to stop at any time but they are employing people who have families.....for one.

Rubicon says that you shouldn't have positive feelings for a corporation...I can have any kind of feelings I want. I am old enough to recognize when something is well run and the owners are still working. Some call that greed, others call it success. I like it. I say Yay Villages. Good for you. :shrug:

I think The Villages are run far better than the country is.

It looks like affordable health care is an impossible dream and it looks like The Villages tried and failed to provide it. They failed. They aren't God and they aren't your mom.

[Villager Joyce]

I think The Villages are run far better than the country is.

You set your standards pretty low there my friend.

[biker1]

How do you define "failed"? They have apparently decided that an MA plan for those on Medicare will be better than the status quo but I hardly call that failing. Failing is when they close up shop because they don't have enough patients. That may happen but I wouldn't bet on it. Individuals must personally decide whether they are getting quality care.

I am not on Medicare and they take our insurance so nothing has changed for us. I am satisfied with my PCP although I have gone "off the reservation" when I lost faith in the specialists at The Villages Health. Having a plan that would not allow me to go "off the reservation" would probably decrease my satisfaction and I understand why many people are troubled by the move to MA. For the time being, we are fine with The Villages Health for the routine stuff.


It looks like affordable health care is an impossible dream and it looks like The Villages tried and failed to provide it. They failed. They aren't God and they aren't your mom.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Wow! I've read some pros, some neutrality and a lot of cons on this insurance change; people, if the developers are doing this for The Villages, they were here long before you, with their decisions and they will be here long after you, with their decisions. You either stay status quo and find a new physician or change your insurance and stay with your physician; time to move on and get over it. Full disclosure, we have Federal Government BC/BS and can stay where we are but my mother-in-law will have to make changes; it is what it is, my wife is having to make the changes for her, but life goes on.

[maureenod]

Sounds like a lot of houses will be going on the market. And, many new builds will not be sold.

[judynlee]

Actually, I think her "rant" was an excellent factual counterbalance to the primarily emotional response that has been dominating the threads on this subject. As rants go, I'll give it a 9.8/10

Yes, she said it all-really, in a nutshell. We are so spoiled!!

[biker1]

Since I didn't see an emoticon I am assuming you are serious. I doubt that will happen.

Sounds like a lot of houses will be going on the market. And, many new builds will not be sold.

[Mikeod]

Sounds like a lot of houses will be going on the market. And, many new builds will not be sold.
Really? When we bought here, the attraction was the myriad of activities available for each of us, the beauty of the entire development, and the attractive homes. We had to change our health care plan because it was local to our former home. When VHS started, we changed again. Now, we may have to change again. But I wouldn't sell and move because of it. Too many very good friends and acquaintances here. And I think TV sells itself with or without VHS.

[asianthree]

Sounds like a lot of houses will be going on the market. And, many new builds will not be sold.

Why, are you a resident, and know some secret info. We sold our first house in 3 days, find that anywhere in the country

[Barefoot]

Sounds like a lot of houses will be going on the market. And, many new builds will not be sold.
I'm assuming you think there will be a mass exodus from The Villages due to the TVH announcement?
And a boycott of new builds? I don't think that will happen. :ohdear:

[NYGUY]

Sounds like a lot of houses will be going on the market. And, many new builds will not be sold.

The average person isn't thinking about Doctors and insurance. They are thinking about golf and pools and Rec Center activities and clubs etc.

[golfing eagles]

I couldn't pick GE out of a line-up of two, but I have always thought and continue to think of him as an honorable man.

And sometimes you think you know someone....I sure wouldn't buy a used car from someone who thinks what TVH is doing is acceptable behavior.

And those actions by you would be considered dishonest/unethical by an honest person...which makes me wonder about someone that actually thinks those actions are perfectly acceptable.

TY, Joyce. I think outlaw missed my point I would not
consider misleading info acceptable, I was simply trying to draw the line between IMPLYING, VERBALLY PROMISING and getting it in WRITING. Implying is the weakest, since it also requires an inference by the listener.

[goodtimesintv]

Sounds like a lot of houses will be going on the market. And, many new builds will not be sold.

Total nonsense.

New builds are marketed mainly to newbies who are newly retired, ages 55 to 65.

That's a 10-year age group of people who are not on Medicare plans, and therefore they choose their primary doctors the same way they always have, thru their PPO or their HMO plans.

[rubicon]

TY, Joyce. I think outlaw missed my point I would not
consider misleading info acceptable, I was simply trying to draw the line between IMPLYING, VERBALLY PROMISING and getting it in WRITING. Implying is the weakest, since it also requires an inference by the listener.

golfing eagles: First, I concur with most here.. enjoy learning from your insightful posts. However, as to the aforementioned I wish I had a nickel for every time we defended a breach of contract lawsuit based on implied promises. An implied promise has been ruled to have changed the written contract in more than one ruling


And you are right in explaining that the health market, etc is driving much of this. However, all things equal I am not aware of another system or group of doctors or single practitioner who will only accept one insurer. As a consumer I am not happy that government or insurance is stepping in between my doctor and me. etc etc etc. In network are creating a real pricing problem for out of networks. ACA is replacing medicare pushing for a single payer system

Personally I have no dog in this fight because my canvasing when I first moved here led me to the Munroe System and its a losing argument to go against anything that remotely connects to TV.

Personal Best Regards:

[Villageswimmer]

Wow! I've read some pros, some neutrality and a lot of cons on this insurance change; people, if the developers are doing this for The Villages, they were here long before you, with their decisions and they will be here long after you, with their decisions. You either stay status quo and find a new physician or change your insurance and stay with your physician; time to move on and get over it. Full disclosure, we have Federal Government BC/BS and can stay where we are but my mother-in-law will have to make changes; it is what it is, my wife is having to make the changes for her, but life goes on.


Whoa! I may have misunderstood this. Are you saying that if you have Fed Govt BSBC you can stay with TVH? Maybe that's why we haven't received the letter. :confused:

[rubicon]

Hi GG

"Thou shalt not have false gods before me:D

A person can love a corporation but a corporation can't and won't love you back.

A Developer by any other name is a Developer be it Donald Trump or Gary Morse. They are good at what they do and they are clever in their marketing. They leverage their businesses over a long period and have a return thrice over...maybe more

So when it comes to flashpoints here between The Villages of Lake Sumter Inc ( Developer) or District ( government) I default to residents as it aligns with my financial interest, unless there is something I view as being unfair to the other side. Its business and its not personal and I have serious doubt any of it has anything to do with jealousy nor do I view the business side of it as greed..... "whatever the traffic will bear is capitalism"

You may not always be right but you will always be Gracie...so don't change we need a variety of different opinions to get to the truth of things.

Most of us on TOTV are just passing time and trying to keep our minds and fingers alert.

Stay well

Personal Best Regards:

Rubicon says that you shouldn't have positive feelings for a corporation...I can have any kind of feelings I want. I am old enough to recognize when something is well run and the owners are still working. Some call that greed, others call it success. I like it. I say Yay Villages. Good for you.

I think The Villages are run far better than the country is.

[goodtimesintv]

golfing eagles: First, I concur with most here.. enjoy learning from your insightful posts. However, as to the aforementioned I wish I had a nickel for every time we defended a breach of contract lawsuit based on implied promises. An implied promise has been ruled to have changed the written contract in more than one ruling

And you are right in explaining that the health market, etc is driving much of this. However, all things equal I am not aware of another system or group of doctors or single practitioner who will only accept one insurer. As a consumer I am not happy that government or insurance is stepping in between my doctor and me. etc etc etc. In network are creating a real pricing problem for out of networks. ACA is replacing medicare pushing for a single payer system

Personally I have no dog in this fight because my canvasing when I first moved here led me to the Munroe System and its a losing argument to go against anything that remotely connects to TV.
Personal Best Regards:

Below are the "Accepted Insurances' at TVHealth. There ARE other insurer's plans accepted.

As I stated above, there is a significant new population here or coming here, who are 55-65 years old, and will not be involved with Medicare for another 7, 8, 9, or 10 years! And if the politicians have their way, newbies under 65 will probably be looking at 70 years old being Medicare age, anyway!

Or, like us, they are still employed and we have employer-based PPO coverage that is in this accepted list.

Note: Medicare enrollees are not the only people living here!

It would be foolish NOT to market to people younger than Medicare age, as they are bringing private insurer dollars in where Medicare reimbursement falls short of operating costs.

Accepted Insurances:

If you are eligible for Medicare, we want you to know that the only Medicare Advantage plans The Villages Health participates in are those offered by UnitedHealthcare®.

UnitedHealthcare® The Villages® MedicareComplete® (HMO) Plan 1
UnitedHealthcare® The Villages® MedicareComplete® (HMO) Plan 2
AARP® Medicare Complete Choice® (Regional PPO)
AARP® Medicare Complete Choice® (HMO)
United Healthcare® Medicare Advantage Dual Complete
We continue to Participate with the following Commercial Insurances:

Avmed
Blue Cross & Blue Shield
Cigna
Multiplan
Private Healthcare System/PHCS
Tricare Standard
United Healthcare


Accepted Insurance by The Villages Health (http://thevillageshealth.com/insurance.php)

[goodtimesintv]

I would have loved to be part of Villages health........

....As for defending The Villages., I think it is a great, well run and making it's owners very rich. AND that ****es a lot of people off. They are jealous, but the owners risked their OWN money for expansion. They could have chosen to stop at any time but they are employing people who have families.....for one.

Rubicon says that you shouldn't have positive feelings for a corporation...I can have any kind of feelings I want. I am old enough to recognize when something is well run and the owners are still working. Some call that greed, others call it success. I like it. I say Yay Villages. Good for you. :shrug:

I think The Villages are run far better than the country is.

It looks like affordable health care is an impossible dream and it looks like The Villages tried and failed to provide it. They failed. They aren't God and they aren't your mom.

Bravo!

[Polar Bear]

...A person can love a corporation but a corporation can't and won't love you back...

I agree with much of your post, rubicon. But not this part, stated in such absolute terms.

Corporations exist to make money. And I have no problem with that at all. But corporations are also made up of people.

It may not always happen, but the love can be in both directions.

[golfing eagles]

I agree with much of your post, rubicon. But not this part, stated in such absolute terms.

Corporations exist to make money. And I have no problem with that at all. But corporations are also made up of people.

It may not always happen, but the love can be in both directions.

And besides, according to Citizen's United, corporations are people, too:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[villagetinker]

Does anyone have a copy of the 2016 UHC plan F and plan N enrollment guides. These are the supplement plans that we have, and I threw away these documents when we signed up (we were grandfathered....). Now I am in the process of comparing the 2016 "accepted" plans against what we currently have. I would only need these for a couple of hours or up to 2 days, thank you.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Whoa! I may have misunderstood this. Are you saying that if you have Fed Govt BSBC you can stay with TVH? Maybe that's why we haven't received the letter. :confused:

Correct....

[gage405]

I have Medicare and Federal BC/BS and I got my letter saying unless I changed by December 31, I am out! Is being on Medicare already the difference?

[Carla B]

I have Medicare and Federal BC/BS and I got my letter saying unless I changed by December 31, I am out! Is being on Medicare already the difference?

Yes, being on Medicare is the difference. You are not eligible to stay unless you switch to Medicare Advantage (except if you have Tricare for Life and you are already on Medicare + TFL).

[Carla B]

Village Tinker, are you asking about the Benefit Table of the various Medigap plans? If so, you can Google "AARP United Health Care Medigap Plans" and look at what is covered by each plan. I also have the book "Medicare & You" 2016 version that the gov't sends to everyone each year. It explains Medigap plans and also gives a general outline about Medicare Advantage plans. if you would like to borrow it please send a PM.

[rubicon]

Below are the "Accepted Insurances' at TVHealth. There ARE other insurer's plans accepted.

As I stated above, there is a significant new population here or coming here, who are 55-65 years old, and will not be involved with Medicare for another 7, 8, 9, or 10 years! And if the politicians have their way, newbies under 65 will probably be looking at 70 years old being Medicare age, anyway!

Or, like us, they are still employed and we have employer-based PPO coverage that is in this accepted list.

Note: Medicare enrollees are not the only people living here!

It would be foolish NOT to market to people younger than Medicare age, as they are bringing private insurer dollars in where Medicare reimbursement falls short of operating costs.

Accepted Insurances:

If you are eligible for Medicare, we want you to know that the only Medicare Advantage plans The Villages Health participates in are those offered by UnitedHealthcare®.

UnitedHealthcare® The Villages® MedicareComplete® (HMO) Plan 1
UnitedHealthcare® The Villages® MedicareComplete® (HMO) Plan 2
AARP® Medicare Complete Choice® (Regional PPO)
AARP® Medicare Complete Choice® (HMO)
United Healthcare® Medicare Advantage Dual Complete
We continue to Participate with the following Commercial Insurances:

Avmed
Blue Cross & Blue Shield
Cigna
Multiplan
Private Healthcare System/PHCS
Tricare Standard
United Healthcare


Accepted Insurance by The Villages Health (http://thevillageshealth.com/insurance.php)

goodtimesintv: then should i interpret all this to mean someone is practicing age discrimination once a person becomes medicare eligible? Does this mean like that old car what sense is there in putting more money into it to keep it running? Hmmmm

[rubicon]

I agree with much of your post, rubicon. But not this part, stated in such absolute terms.

Corporations exist to make money. And I have no problem with that at all. But corporations are also made up of people.

It may not always happen, but the love can be in both directions.

Polar Bear that profit motive you reference is god to corporation and rightly so. And those nice people you refer to do exist. However its the people who run corporations that matter that control. Have you ever studied what happens when a nice guy (VP) is about to be fired just because he wears hush puppies and does not style himself according to the standard power tie and suit, yet dressed appropriately .And oh he wore braces.

I did and people emptied a room ever time he walked by because they were afraid of contagion and would be fired too. People who broke bread with him daily went to his home, etc. a person who performance wise simply brilliant I could repeat these types of stories over and over again. And that VP with the hush puppies came to me for counseling and to ask for my help.

Knowing I would interfere the president of this company kept me in the dark until it was too late and the matter resolved. because he knew that I would tell hi that he had absolutely no legal basis to fire this VP and he didn't want that on the record. the president and I did have a come to Jesus meeting and of course he had more stripes than me so I knew I was about to go on a suicide mission and used my best Dale Carnegie to no avail/ But this President was too aloof too full of himself ........................

consider also mass layoffs its corporations natural way of survival.

Those nice people you refer to can only be as nice as a corporation will allow. When push comes to shove watch how many remain at your side. Its the human experience So again I say a corporation can't and won't love you back .

Personal Best Regards:

[Karron]

Buffalo Jim isn't far off according to this -

Waiting Your Turn: Wait Times for Health Care in Canada, 2015 Report | Fraser Institute (https://www.fraserinstitute.org/studies/waiting-your-turn-wait-times-for-health-care-in-canada-2015-report)

Specialist physicians surveyed report a median waiting time of 18.3 weeks between referral from a general practitioner and receipt of treatment—slightly longer than the 18.2 week wait reported in 2014. This year’s wait time is 97% longer than in 1993 when it was just 9.3 weeks.

While I was working in Illinois, we had an Orthopedic surgeon who operated on his mother from Canada......at the time he told us that his mother was on a long waiting list because of her age!
Needless to say, she paid cash for hospital care here in the USA, but she recovered and went back home no longer in pain and eventually came back for surgery on the other knee.
Sounds like the "wait time" was real!

[jamblu]

I just enrolled in the UHC Advantage plan because I have M.S. and thought having one doctor would be a good idea for me. I really was not told the negatives. I chose the HMO 2 program. Would anyone explain the differences I might encounter if I need hospitalization or if I need doctors outside of Florida? Are my only options urgent cares under this program?

[Villageswimmer]

Yes, being on Medicare is the difference. You are not eligible to stay unless you switch to Medicare Advantage (except if you have Tricare for Life and you are already on Medicare + TFL).


They don't mention TFL on the website link posted by Rubicon (thanks R). Wonder why?

The site verbiage isn't clear to me. The second listing should say something like "if you are NOT ON MEDICARE, we accept..."

Am I the only one confused by this?

We still haven't received the letter. We ARE both on original Medicare.

Maybe I need another coffee.

[Polar Bear]

Polar Bear that profit motive you reference is god to corporation and rightly so. And those nice people you refer to do exist. However its the people who run corporations that matter that control. Have you ever studied what happens when a nice guy (VP) is about to be fired just because he wears hush puppies and does not style himself according to the standard power tie and suit, yet dressed appropriately .And oh he wore braces.

I did and people emptied a room ever time he walked by because they were afraid of contagion and would be fired too. People who broke bread with him daily went to his home, etc. a person who performance wise simply brilliant I could repeat these types of stories over and over again. And that VP with the hush puppies came to me for counseling and to ask for my help.

Knowing I would interfere the president of this company kept me in the dark until it was too late and the matter resolved. because he knew that I would tell hi that he had absolutely no legal basis to fire this VP and he didn't want that on the record. the president and I did have a come to Jesus meeting and of course he had more stripes than me so I knew I was about to go on a suicide mission and used my best Dale Carnegie to no avail/ But this President was too aloof too full of himself ........................

consider also mass layoffs its corporations natural way of survival.

Those nice people you refer to can only be as nice as a corporation will allow. When push comes to shove watch how many remain at your side. Its the human experience So again I say a corporation can't and won't love you back .

Personal Best Regards:

Those are individual experiences and I know many similar ones happen. But they do not describe all of the corporate world.

Sorry...still don't buy your blanket conclusion. :)

[Villageswimmer]

I just enrolled in the UHC Advantage plan because I have M.S. and thought having one doctor would be a good idea for me. I really was not told the negatives. I chose the HMO 2 program. Would anyone explain the differences I might encounter if I need hospitalization or if I need doctors outside of Florida? Are my only options urgent cares under this program?


I think you should call UHC with your specific questions. This is far too important to rely on responses from a message board. Another good source is SHINE. I would talk with both. Best of luck to you.

[dbussone]

I think you should call UHC with your specific questions. This is far too important to rely on responses from a message board. Another good source is SHINE. I would talk with both. Best of luck to you.



Excellent and timely advice. [emoji41]

[kcrazorbackfan]

I have Medicare and Federal BC/BS and I got my letter saying unless I changed by December 31, I am out! Is being on Medicare already the difference?


Correct. I'm 63 and my wife is 56 so we're not eligible for Medicare.

[Barefoot]

My kids live in Canada, and this is true. Furthermore, speak to almost any Canadian, they value their healthcare system highly. It's not without fault but better than most but it began 50-60 years ago when perhaps things were simpler and so many others (pharmaceutical, insurance companies etc. etc.) were not making huge amounts off those sick and dying. Another difference is that Canada unlike here has encouraged more general practitioners than specialists. I heard 80-20% with GPs front liners the largest group...and they do more in office). We have a major shortage of GPs to our detriment.
You cannot compare the Canadian system negatively or positively to ours as it's different and has an almost 60 year head start.

Good post.

At the time he told us that his mother was on a long waiting list because of her age!
I know 90 year olds in Canada who are having hip replacement surgery.
Wait times for elective surgery depend on the community and hospital involved.
I just received a knee replacement in a month, and I'm no youngster.
But I had to go to a hospital in Toronto rather than having surgery in the small local hospital.
It's usually all about choices.

[wendyquat]

This answered all my questions!
No Premium "FREE" Medicare Plans | You Get What You Pay For - YouTube (https://youtu.be/REYZuAHbNb0)

[rubicon]

Not addressed here and the underlying issue for all of this is the affect ACA has had on the health care and health insurance industries. the subject matter is too complex and too political but in a nutshell ACA was passed to create government directed oligopolies and that is what is occurring with the proposed mergers of some health care insurance giants.

Its forcing many changes in pricing, benefits etc. On a practical level how does an ethical doctor respond given the demands made by government and the continuing reduction in fee schedules. My cardio is a guy I respect. He hates that he has to keyboard on his computer to satisfy government/insurance demands when he rather be truly doctoring. I read that medical schools are having a drop in application, especially for primary care physicians . I read that in networks are causing rapid pricing increases of out of network providers. The health care industry has been in continuing flux consolidations, changing medical models ,etc. some physicians are simply doing a cash business providing their patients with the needed billing to return to government/insurance companies ...will it work?

Bottom line is bottom line how do you balance ethical obligations with remaining in business if you are a health care provider?

[graciegirl]

Bottom line is bottom line how do you balance ethical obligations with remaining in business if you are a health care provider?

And more than that, there is the issue of whether our brightest will continue to choose to go into medicine when they can have a less stressful life and make more money in other areas. The person describing the problems with Canada's social medicine mentions they aren't recruiting enough doctors in Canada.. If you make yourself study and work and commit to a grueling residency for many years after others have graduated and earning a living, it seems right to me that you SHOULD make a lot of money as a skilled doctor.

Now those who are more high minded and maybe more left of me would say, HAH...another money grubber, but I just say it like it is. Socialized medicine discourages medical vocations, and makes medicine less good. It makes people wait for needed procedures, and does not allow them to choose their doctors.

I don't like anything that smacks of socialized medicine, but we both have worked to have good insurance and saved to have money for health needs.

The old Squirrel saving the nuts for the long winter is not pleased with the young ones partying during the nut harvest season. Sacrifices must be made for important issues. If you don't take care of your own family, who is expected to?

We know that answer.