Medicare expert wanted

[l2ridehd]

Who are the subject matter experts (SME) on Medicare. Which plans to sign up for, best Medigap coverage, best doctor groups, and how the premiums adjust going forward. Seems first year is very expensive as they base it on prior year earnings, which just before retiring is very high income, so very high premium. Just when your income is set to drop dramatically. Does the premium change every year?

Seems like I need to talk to a SME on this topic before making these decisions.

[kathyzapp]

My husband and I went to the Newcomer's Meeting last week. There was a representative from SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders). They offer free counseling and information on Medicare and Health Insurance. Their number is 1-800-963-5337 (www.floridashine.org).

Hope this helps.

[Mudder]

I think people who are trained have SHINE workshops in some of the Rec centers. They are very helpful. Call Chula Vista, I'm pretty sure they are there one day a week or so.