Quote:
Originally Posted by ARCHIE  I am still working but am looking into retiring at some point.
Medicare use to just about cover everything and doctor's would write
off the 20% that they are allowed to over bill for. It is wise to ask
the doctor if he accepts Medicare Allowance, this meaning accepting
whatever medicaid allows. Some do , some don't so the additional 20%
would be out of pocket if you did not have supplemental ins.
However, if your healthy and don't have existing illnesses that can
add up it may not pay to purchased additional ins at say $200.00 (estimate)
a month if it's not going to be used. That would be $2,400.00 per year
out the window. I am thinking of just putting that in the bank, if I need it
fine, if not yipeeee for me. Of course prescriptions drugs are another thing.
You have to have a drug program. Epic is one that goes buy your income
and thus far is affordable for me. I'm still learning and looking into everything.
I know Blue Cross/Blue Shield has a plan that you pay for when it's needed
instead of paying monthy. A friend is on it and swears by it but I don't know
the details.
It's all so confusing and scary not to be covered. It's important to have
insurance but it seems crazy to pay monthly when it's not being used too. |
My Mom has a Medicare Advantage plan that is an HMO. (she doesn't pay any additional premium on top of what is de-ducted from S.S.)
She has a $20 co-pay for Dr. visits
One thing we are confused on if the Dr. charges $200 for a visit & Medicare pays $100 if she would be responsible for the difference along with the $20 co-pay.
My understanding of an HMO and having co-pays would be that in-network Dr.s agree to the Medicare charges already.
On the Medicare original plan I know it says you pay 20% for visits unless you have a Medigap policy to cover the gap.