[gomoho]

Originally Posted by ijusluvit

I had just signed up for a Medicare Advantage plan last year when I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. So during 2013 I have been forced to pay the 20% coinsurance costs of Part B chemo drugs, etc, up to the out-of pocket ceiling of $5000. I am choosing to change my policy to the AARP UHC Plan F for next year, since the total annual premium costs are about $2300. Obviously that is better than paying $5000 for an Advantage plan. One of the benefits of the Affordable Care Act is that you can get any Advantage plan regardless of pre-existing conditions. However, you cannot get a Medigap or supplemental plan at the low advertised prices with pre-existing conditions unless you are a resident of several states. Those include New York and Connecticut. My NY residency gives me the full range of choices. The only time folks with pre-existing conditions from other states, including Florida, can get guaranteed admission to a Medigap plan is in the first six months after their 65th birthday, their first six months of Medicare registration.

I believe there is one other exception where you can get into a supplement plan without underwriting (no questions asked) and that is when your plan is terminated i.e. this year with Preferred Care Partners. So if you are a PCP member currently check with an agent and I believe during the Special Enrollment Period you will be allowed to sign up for a supplement.

[cinepuxon]

I strongly advise anyone thinking of dropping a Medigap Plan (ie, supplement) and switching to a Medicare Advantage plan to get free unbiased advice from trained counselors from the SHINE program. They offer counseling sessions at the various Villages Rec Centers now through Dec 7. MA plans are attractive because of no premiums but your choice of doctors and specialists may be limited and your out-of-pocket (OOP) can be $6000/$10000 in/out of network. If you are healthy they are great but getting seriously ill is another thing. With a Medigap supplement you may never see a co-pay for anything (depending on the plan). Something to consider as one ages. Please see a SHINE counselor before you make any binding decisions. 1-800-96-ELDER or 1-800-963-5337 for more info.

[ijusluvit]

Originally Posted by jazzeoneaj

[COLOR="Blue"]The information you gave was wonderful and first I hope you are doing well and are comfortable with the choices you have with medical treatment.

I know a few people with AARP Plan F..you are correct..it is a good one.
What I don't know is what is the monthly premium on this..if there is one? Do you feel it gives you more leaway to 'choice'.

Thank you and God Bless!!

Thank you too! The AARP Plan F is $177. monthly in New York. It varies state-to-state and it is somewhat higher in Florida. I have been told that there will be absolutely no restrictions on my treatment choices either in NY or here at the Moffatt Center.

[llaran]

I processed claims for 20 years, and I will never recommend an HMO. Think about coverage. ..do you want to go to the very best Dr for your condition? Anywhere in the country? You can with traditional Medicare. Ask about copays do they apply to the OOP? Most do not. Remember insurance buys you peace of mind, you pay auto and home coverage and may never use it but if you need it,it is there.