Tag Archives: medicare supplement insurance

Your Questions About Medicare Supplement Insurance

Laura asks…

I am on SSDI and dont have insurance Help!!?

I have recently been approved for SSDI and I went to the Senior and disabled services they told me to apply for Oregon health plan. I did that and OHP told me I make too much money for that program $999.00 . I am married and my wife is disabled too she is on SSI she gets OHP because she is on SSI so do our two children. What is Medicaid? Is that a type of health insurance or just a supplement? I wont qualify for Medicare for two years as it looks now. What do I do? The people I have talked to at Social security and Oregon and Senior disabled services keep giving me the runaround. The lady at Senior and disabled services did not even know what Medicaid was.
Will I have to get Private insurance? I cant afford that.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Healthquotes.awardspace.info – here is my health insurance plan. As I remember they can provide such a service.

Helen asks…

Why doesn’t medicare cover my GYN office visit?

I called my gyn to make an apt for my annual PAP test and the girl at the other end asked me what my insurance was. I told her I had Medicare and an AARP supplement. Then she informed me that medicare does not cover the office visit only the PAP test. The office visit is $175. I then asked her how can I have a PAP test without an office visit? She replied, “I know, a lot of people are angry about that, but that’s Medicare‘s rules”. Don’t you think that’s ridiculous? I bet that’s going to discourage women from getting checked.
The more I thought about it, the more ridiculous it sounded, so I called Medicare. The gentleman at the other end said: “I never heard of such a thing; perhaps they are billing us with the wrong code. Tell them to bill us with the 25 modifier. That will cover the pap smear, the pelvic exam and the office visit”. I thanked him and called the GYN office back. The girl argued that billing that way was illegal because Medicare doesn’t cover a wellness visit, etc. She even called the billing dept. that gave her this BS information and told me that they would not change their billing because it would be “illegal”. How can a Medicare worker give me an illegal code? To make a long story short, I cancelled my apt and made one with another gyn that does not charge extra for an office visit. Beware!

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Well, I just had my yearly checkup with my ob/gyn, PAP test and all — my office visit was completely covered by Medicare — maybe you should check with Medicare — I think your doctor’s office is trying to get a double pay — no offense, but Medicare totally covers this exam!

Lizzie asks…

Another question about Social Security!?

Thanks for all the great answers. Now I am a lot less confused.
How about this? I am now age 56. I love my job, and my family has long-life. My father lived to 94. I know that I cannot predict the future, but I would like to work until age 70, or older. Collect social security at age 70. Keep my employer insurance and supplement with medicare at age 65. I know almost everyone else I talk to is planning to retire as soon as they qualify for social security, no matter how much money they loose. Great for them. But I like my idea. What do you think?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

I think you are a very fortunate man. Most people are not that wild about their job, and the stress they experience at work robs them of some of their life span. They say stress kills, and it’s true. It eats away at your health and robs you of many of your retirement years by reducing your life span. One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is the avoidance of stress.

Seeing that you love your job, your life span will most likely be longer than most because you won’t suffer from the ill effects of job stress. When I was 56, I thought I would work until I’m 70 too. But that wasn’t because I loved my job. It was because I was worried that I might not have enough money to pay for my food and shelter during my entire retirement years if I dared retire sooner than age 70. To make that story short, I ended up retiring at age 62 (not 70). I was able to do that because I was a planner–just like you. I was forever calculating what it would most likely cost me to live in retirement, how much I had managed to acquire, and how much more I needed. As soon as I saw that my financial situation would most likely work out for me, I started to look for an opportunity to exit from my work life into my retirement life.

My lifestyle choice (a modest one) allows me to feel very comfortable at $30K per year. From that I net $26K, spend $21K, and have $5K left over. This money comes from my employer’s pension plan for me, and interest I earn from my savings. In two more years, at age 70, I’ll start receiving another $30K in income per year because social security will kick in. Then I’ll be receiving a little more than twice the money I need to live on. So, as you can see, even though I’m far from rich, I’ll most likely die with money in the bank. But that’s possible because of my life style choice. People who have more expensive tastes and possibly want to live a flamboyant life style would need much more money than I do.

My advice to you is to continue to look at your financial situation to understand when it will allow you to actually retire. Once you figure that out AND achieve that goal, you’ll feel very light. It will be as though a weight has been removed from your shoulders. You’ll be at a point where you no longer have to work if you don’t want to. Well, I keep forgetting that you love your job, so for you it might not be a weight off your shoulders as much as it was for me. But it’s still refreshing to know that you really don’t have to work anymore if you should decide you don’t want to.

In closing, let me add that your choices about how long you work for a living, and how long you wait to receive social security benefits is a big gamble. You could very easily be in the middle of your big plan, and drop dead while still in the process. As you said, no one knows the future, but your’s looks very promissing both in life span possibility and in income possibility. So, create a flexible plan for yourself and go for it. I say flexible because you might run into situation that make it wise for you to tweak your plan a little. If so, then so be it. Do the needed tweaking.

Reading your question made me smile. It’s nice to see someone who is interested in planning his future to help ensure his retirement years will be pleasant ones.

Best of luck to you.

Susan asks…

I am a senior; now that the health care bill has been signed, what should I do?

I have no insurance other than Medicare. Right now, I’m being bombarded with ads for Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans. Won’t the new health care bill alter most of what these plans can offer? Should I choose one (even though it’ll probably be obsolete very shortly), or just sit tight with what I have for another year?
Thanks, guys for most of the responses so far. I especially appreciate those from “Meilin”, “handyman”, and “mrwizard.”
Thanks, “truth!” (sorry—I can’t seem to manage the inverted exclamation point on this keyboard).

“Cory”, thanks you for taking the time to respond; from perusing answers to others’ questions, I get the impression you’re quite young. As you grow older (and, presumably, more mature) you’ll find that there are issues that don’t call for flippant, “funny” quips as responses.
I’ve scanned over many of your responses, and I wish you’d do the same…you might start seeing a pattern that just might throw a little light on your very dark view of those who disagree with you. Incidentally, I appreciated your response to “Daisy’s” question—and not just because I agree with it. Take care, my friend!

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

It was only signed today and they have not made the fixes yet, so wait until the dust settles before you decide anything. I don’t know why people are so unnerved by the bill. If you want a Medicare supplement to pick up the 20-30 percent Medicare doesnt pay you can buy that any time. You should wait to see if there are any changes good or bad before you do that. You have been getting by without Medi-gap apparently. We dont know the minutia of the effects the new bill has on Medicare yet because the changes cover a 10-year period. Two things that happen this year will be an effort to bridge the gap in payments for catastrophic prescription needs and a $250 rebate in lieu of the usual COLA.

Robert asks…

medicare for non seniors on ssdi?

from what i have found, most of the supplement plans are only for seniors…1 starts at age 55

Is the Medicare itself that same for people on SSDI as it is for peopleon SS retirement

I will not have any other insurance.
how is part D redundant for people on ssdi…

how else can i get rx coverage
i want A,B

not C…..

there are only 3-4 doctors that will work with people with my condition..
1 doesn’t take insurance at all..the others aren’t in ANY of the HMO networks–including the 1 PCP that won’t blow me off….i need to be able to have a willing PCP

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Yes it is the same. My brother had a stroke at age 40 and started receiving medicare benefits at age 42. His coverage is the same as that of my 85 year old mother, other than she has chosen traditional medicare and he carries one of the medicare advantage plans. Unfortunately you are going to find that many doctors only accept a certain number of medicare patients because medicare (like medicaid) pays less than the insurance companies do.
If you do not want medicare part c (which is the medicare advantage) then you will have to enroll in the original medicare plan.

Your Questions About Medicare Supplement Insurance

Mary asks…

My husband died a year ago. Today I received a bill for surgery that was performed in 2004. Do I have to pay

Our insurance comanies, Medicare and a supplement have paid this bill but there is still a few hundred outstanding. Am I resonsilbe?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

First find out if your state is a community property state. If it is than unfortunately his debts are your debts as his property is yours.
If you are not in a community property state then I would encourage you to seek legal counsel with an estates attorney or a bankruptcy attorney.
I work in the financial industry and deal with peoples credit regularly the only real repurcussion I can forsee is that they may place you in collections which can adversly effect your credit score but thats about it.
Also check with your insurance providers and the death benefits provided by his employer or retirement group.

God bless and my condolences on your loss best of luck on this one.

Ken asks…

asking about insurance?

A person of 79yrs old has medicare…goes as an outpatient for echocariogram…has paid for supplement insurance…then gets a bill for 134bucks…then is told that the supplment does not pay for the deductable therefore the 134 bucks are owed. The supplement is Blue Cross-Blue Shield and very expensive. Is this really true that they owe the bill?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

There are several different Medicare Supplement Plans. Plans C, F, and J are the only plans that will pay the deductible. If this person has a high deductible plan F, high deductible plan J, a Medicare Select plan, or any of the other plans they will have to pay the bill.

Sharon asks…

I am medicare eligible as of 1-1-07. my problem is i am not 65 yrs.,, i am on disability.?

Because I am under 65 I am not eligible for most supplements. Medicare says I can get a MEDIGAP policy, except I cannot find an insurance co. that sells this type of plan. Medicare says that all states are required to offer this plan for people in my situation. If anyone else has encountered a problem like this please help. The insurance co. keep on trying to sell me the advantage plan, but none of my doctors are on those plans (HMO). The Medigap plan works as the supplement to your original medicare & the rates are supposedly reasonable. If anyone has any info let me know.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Since you have medicare you can get what is referred to as Medagap Insurance. Make sure that you have signed up for part B through Medicare. Most insurance companies offer Medigap sometimes called Medicare Supplement. You also need to evaluate if you should get the prescription coverage. Getting B coverage is a must the presciption coverage may not be but if you don’t get it during the open enrollment period the rates go up if you get it latter.

Donna asks…

Question concerning diabetic test strips?

My dad has cut his testing down to twice a week to save on his test strips since they are expensive for him. He was testing daily. Perhaps testing twice a week is sufficient. His doctor said it would be fine. His blood sugar stays pretty stable, but in the past, has had problems with it being too high. He has Medicare, AARP supplement insurance, and goes to the VA clinic for appts. Is there a way to get test strips at a reduced rate? I thought his insurance would pay for them or partially at least, but he is buying them himself. I am considering sending him some money to help pay on them, if the doctor says he ever needs to be checking it more often. So how safe is it that he is only checking twice a week? I’m not impressed with his doctor, so I hope he is being honest with my dad on testing twice a week asw being fine. Anyone with diabetes that could advise?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

The doctor has to write a prescription. If the doctor writes a prescription specifically stating to check blood sugar twice a day, the insurance will give your father 60 strips a month. Alot of time it is a pain in the butt for people to run around and get scripts. Have the doc write a script for ‘diabetic supplies’ including how many lancets, strips, and needles (if used) are used a month. The only thing insurance wont pay for is alcohol wipes (they are cheap anyway) and medicare pts can get a new meter every 5 years, but usually its better to just buy your own meter (they arnt much, the companies make 90 percent of their money off the strips) have the doc write on the script the type of meter it is , get a new script to match a new meter. Insurance pays for strips!!! Now of course if your dad doesnt have a script he will have to buy them, even have the doc write to check sugar three times a day and he will have extras. I am a home care nurse and have figured this all out. If your dad uses insulin he needs to check at LEAST twice a day. If he is on orals, once a day in the am before meals, if he is good for a long time then once or twice a week is ok with some docs but i would watch it closer.

Linda asks…

how soon do you get medicare after your disability is approved?

my wife is 46 and i was wondering if we had to pay for medicare…i heard it was 100.00 out of each check….is that true?
is that permanent or just until she’s 65?
is it better to get the medicare and a supplement or should i leave her on my insurance and could i get a supplement then?
if we don’t do the medicare now, will it be more difficult to get it later?
when getting us the lump sum for her disability, when do they start the proration of her pay out?
does it start when we met with the attorney or when social security first turned her down?
when do the monthly checks start coming?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Part B premium is currently $96.40 for most people and is permanent. Medicare will be available to her after being on SSDI for 24 months.

When she becomes eligible for Medicare she’ll have a guaranteed issue period where she can sign up for a Medicare Supplement or a Medicare Advantage plan with no underwriting. Medicare Supplements are not available to people under 65 in all states and where they are available there are usually not many plans from which to choose. If she doesn’t get on a Supplement during the guaranteed issue period she may have trouble in the future because they can decline to accept her. However, she’ll have another guaranteed issue period when she turns 65.

Medicare Advantage plans are available in all states to people under 65. If she doesn’t get an Advantage plan right away she can get on one during the annual enrollment period from November 15 through December 31 of each year. She cannot be declined with an Advantage plan unless she has ESRD.

Whether it is better to keep her on your insurance would depend upon your current coverage and cost compared to the coverage and cost of whichever plans are available to her in your area. There is no way anyone here can tell you which is better. You’ll need to visit a local agent that works with all of the major plans in your area. The agent can work with you and compare the plans and suggest which would be best based upon her health conditions.

Your Questions About Medicare Supplement Insurance

Donna asks…

is a person better off with just medicare rather then a medicare supp.ins. if they need skilled nursing or gor?

if i have to go into a nursing home or have skilled nurse visits at home which kind of insurance am i better off with? regular medicare or a medicare supplement plan

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

A medicare supplement plan will cover the remaining costs that Medicare doesn’t cover. For approved skilled nursing facilities stays, Medicare covers days 1-20 at 100%. After that, for days 21-100, you are responsible for the remaining 20%, or 133.50 per day. Depending on the supplement plan you choose, it may cover it for you.

Betty asks…

How would you rate Colonial Insurance co?? especially for health care. Thanks.?

To supplement insurance once retired and before Medicare.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

For objective, unbiased information, check for consumer complaints with either the National Association of State Insurance Commissioners or with your own state’s insurance commissioner. There are links below:

Mandy asks…

Do you wish people that aren’t on Medicare would quit saying what a good plan it is?

You not only have to pay for Medicare but you need a supplement insurance also. The Doctor’s don’t really want people with this kind of insurance plan because Medicare pays what they want to pay. They paid all of 10% on my surgery bill and 10% on my hospital bill! For this kind of insurance we pay $600 a month! Finding a Dr. that will take you when you are on Medicare is hard!
The $600 is for supplement insurance also. $200 for of it for Medicare. Supplement usually pays 20% of what Medicare pays.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

I wish that people who aren’t economists would stop telling us how to fix the economy. And I wish that people who aren’t lawyers would quit saying that we need new laws.

Regarding Medicare, here’s some helpful information:

Medicare Premiums for 2009:

Part A: (Hospital Insurance) Premium

Most people do not pay a monthly Part A premium because they or a spouse has 40 or more quarters of Medicare-covered employment.
The Part A premium is $244.00 per month for people having 30-39 quarters of Medicare-covered employment.
The Part A premium is $443.00 per month for people who are not otherwise eligible for premium-free hospital insurance and have less than 30 quarters of Medicare-covered employment.
Part B: (Medical Insurance) Premium

$96.40 per month*

Medicare Deductible and Coinsurance Amounts for 2009:

Part A: (pays for inpatient hospital, skilled nursing facility, and some home health care) For each benefit period Medicare pays all covered costs except the Medicare Part A deductible (2009 = $1,068) during the first 60 days and coinsurance amounts for hospital stays that last beyond 60 days and no more than 150 days.

For each benefit period you pay:

A total of $1,068 for a hospital stay of 1-60 days.
$267 per day for days 61-90 of a hospital stay.
$534 per day for days 91-150 of a hospital stay (Lifetime Reserve Days).
All costs for each day beyond 150 days

Carol asks…

I need help choosing a medicare program!!?

Does anyone really understand the choices they have for medicare? I really don’t know which one to choose. I need the prescrition plan and also help with co pays at hospital and doctor office. Also do I still need to purchase a supplement insurance?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Medicare programs directly from medicare are the best. Insurance companies offer little discounts on things that may lure you in, but in the big picture medicare clients have the most benefits and report the best satisfaction when going directly. Part D for prescription must be purchased through an insurance company. All plans mostly resemble each other. Find out what options there are in your area and review the popular plans.

Medicare supplements are often important for seniors. Medicare only pays 80%, and they have caps for hospital stays. After 60 days they lower their pay, the pay per day is not much, and after 150 of days in the hospital they stop the payment entirely. If you can’t afford a decent Medicare Supplement get a high deductible plan that will cover you just in case you need to be in the hospital for a longer period of time. Cash charges for hospital stays are not affordable.

James asks…

Best health insurance for seniors.?

We will be on medicare next year. Please, what would be our best supplement insurance. We live in California.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Best way would be through a comparison site, fill in the one form, get many quotes, see what suits you best. It saves plenty of time.
Here’s a good one to start you off, it’s free.

Http://4ym8.com/CompareInsurance.html

these are all the main American insurers competing to get your business so you are bound to find something that suits you, if it works out remember my points please

Your Questions About Medicare Supplement Insurance

Ken asks…

Now I am asking about Medicare and retirement!?

OK, I am 56 and I have employer medical insurance. When I turn 65, I get medicare insurance. So far, so good with my understanding. So what about all those medicare insurance “supplement insurances, such as AARP, etc. I see on tv? Do you pay for them, or use them to ‘enhance; medicare, etc, etc.? I guess – are they worth it? I will still be working, have my employer medical insurance. My goal is to work to age 70,,, Anything you can tell me about medicare, so I can compare it to my employer insurance of NOW, would be appreciated.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

I have Medicare and Blue Cross/Shield supplemental insurance. It works fine! I can go to any Dr or hospital I want. The cost of the BC/S is subsidized by my former employer. I retired at 61 and regret I didn’t do it sooner. Retirement is a blast!

Sharon asks…

Does anyone know if I can buy more coverage for Medicare?

The Veteran’s administration is my main medical insurance but I also have medicare A and B.

Can I purchase a supplement insurance for optical insurance? I.E. Glasses and lasix surgery?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Supplementing your current insurance with a good vision plan is a great idea. The vision plan site below has two plans you can choose from.

Richard asks…

My wife is eligible for medicare. I am going on cobra insurance. Should I keep paying for her insurance ?

My medical insurance plan had a $1200 deductible and $25 co pay.
We do plan on paying for b supplement right at the start.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Go for it!

Pay for your cobra and put her on Medicare, making sure you have a supplement for B and drugs.

Your bank account will thank you!

John asks…

If health insurance copay for generic drug is more than the price of drug what do you pay?

I am looking at medicare supplement plans. Most plans say they cover generic drugs. The copay for one plan for a 30 day supply of a generic drug is $10. Suppose the generic drug is one that Wal-mart charges $4 for a 30 day supply. What do you pay; $4 or $10?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

The way my plan works is you pay the copay or the cost of the drug, whichever is less. For example, I have a $10 copay for generic drugs. I recently filled a prescription that only cost $8, so I only paid $8. I’m pretty sure this is the way it works with most plans, but it’s always a good idea to double check. Contact the customer service line for the plans you are interested in. Good luck.

Sandra asks…

need to find answers to medicare supplement?

trying to sign up for medical insurance thru american senior choices

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

So call and ask them to send you the information

Your Questions About Medicare Supplement Insurance

Sandra asks…

What are requirements for starting a business to sell life, health ins policies & medicare supplement plans?

More specifically what are the state, federal and/or medicare restrictions? ie posting surety bonds, liquid capital, insurance licenses, brick & border, etc.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

It’s going to vary by state. There ARE no federal insurance guidelines, except for Medicare.

Go visit your state insurance department website.

Charles asks…

How do I find a list of affluent individuals aged 62-64 in my city?

I am a Medicare Supplement Insurance Broker and am looking to expand my market. Any help appreciated!!!
Insurance Guy – I am trying to find individuals to consult 1-2 years before they qualify. Feeding my pipeline!!!

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Look in Who’s Who. They have lists of affluent and well connected people.
Check out the society section of the local paper. They usually have picture so you can see the age. In general, they tend to be older.

Helen asks…

MediCare B & D and suppliment insurance, is this another way of stating…?

the promise of healthcare deducted from paychecks during the 1970 -2008 generation to recieve health care when a person retires has been taken away and replaced with very limited non user friendly Medicare A and our dooped seniors citizens still have to buy their insurance via Medicare A, B & D and if they really want something covered 100% of a “negociated rate” then one must buy supplement insurance. The Bush-Clinton years have misused or abused these funds and are convincing citizens that buying insurance during senior years is fair (not our leaders screwing up). Am I looking at this wrong?
What I was trying to state is: health care has been deducted from paychecks to cover medical expenses after retirement. Bush & Clinton admin.s pulled off a scam that makes retiree’s pay for their insurance anyway, by making heatlh care a money making industry and causing the cost of care to increase ten fold. To begin with, lifting the not for profit status meant instead of nuns running a hospital on the salary they get anyway, we replaced them with 5 – 10 CEO’s each hospital and letting them pay themselves .5 -5 million dollars annually plus tax free benefits.
Why do so many people back the governement managing healthcare? Non medical politicans making health care decisions is crazy!
I’m not looking for someone to sell me more insurance when I retire in twenty years! I want someone to explain why medicare started being deducted from paychecks under the guise it was to be health care insurance for retirees and now legislation and mismanagement has caused this to be extrememly limited in what is may or may not offer a retiree based on how intuned each person is to fight for his/her benefits when needed.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Way wrong. People on Medicare with a Supplement policy pay far less than the under 65 crowd (in general terms).

The exception to that would be those on lots of drugs, but with the addition of Medicare Part D we’ve taken a step in the right direction.

Relying on the gov’t to run anything correctly is naive, but technically I’d say it’s improved….sorta.

But the premise of being promised health care as retirees is something that was goofed on the corporate level, because you can see the mess that GM is in. So do you blame the gov’t, the business, the unions that fought for the company to spend money they didn’t have, the end user, the attorneys suing for the mistakes???

Sharon asks…

Another example of people not understanding the issues? Is that the real problem with America?

My last question involved medicare supplement insurance. A response was—medicare advantage plans are heavily government subsidized, which is true BUT, that is not a medicare supplement .In fact, advantage plans takes the place of medicare in most cases, and thats why they are subsidized. Anyway, the problem is that people really dont totally understand the problem or the proposed solutions to that the problem. I am including myself in that category, but I am trying to get the FACTS regarding both

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Yes, people not understanding the issues is a huge problem in the U.S. The politicians are not making any easier for us. The average person just doesn’t have the time to learn all aspects of an issue so they can figure out who is lying and who is not. Maybe I should not have said lying, I should maybe say twisting of the facts. Anything to do with Medicare gets very complicated and I guess the solution is to vote politicians in that won’t twist things around. That is a joke that is really not very funny. Also the U.S. And France are 2 totally different countries, ours is much larger with a lot more problems.

Ruth asks…

I turned 64 in July 2009, how soon am I suppose to contact Medicare for my Insurance?

And what types of Medicare are there? Do I also need to get a supplement ins.? I also collect social security, stared at age 62.
I know nothing about Medicare for the elderly.
Thank you for any type of help you can give me.
Thanks

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

You apply three months before you turn 65.

There’s only one type of medicare.

Most likely, you need supplemental insurance. Medicare coverage is very limited.

Your Questions About Medicare Supplement Insurance

Carol asks…

what supplement insurance is called with medicare?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Supplemental insurance (Medigap) is a policy you purchase from an insurance company directly that covers the 20% of medical bills that are not covered by Medicare. This is what you might buy if you are enrolled in Original Medicare. If you are enrolled in Medicare Advantage, you dont need this supplemental policy. The cost varies from $125-$175 per month. You can consult an indepenent agent who sells several different Medigap policies. These Medigap policies have several plans. You can call a major company like Blue Cross or United Healthcare directly.

John asks…

will my supplement to medicare. first health insurance take care of me when I move from Melbourne Fl to nw. fl

when I move to Ft Walton Beach Fl

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

It very well should, they cover all the states…..ROB

David asks…

Are there health insurance companies in NJ that offer Medicare supplement “F” plans for people under age 50?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Not that I can find, but if you do your homework you will be just as pleased with the plan C’s that are available in NJ. Most providers accepting Medicare patients also accept Medicare Assignment. This means they will accept Medicare‘s approved amounts. Therefore, you will have not be responsible for excess charges above what Medicare approves. This makes Plan F excess coverage obsolete.

Helen asks…

Please help me with A & B supplement insurance?

Please is there anybody that can help me. I need supplement insurance for A & B medicare health insurance. I can’t get extra help right now. Do you have a good plan Thank you very much. This is making me sick
New york state Saratoga county NY

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Make use of the SE like google or yahoo to get some ideas first if you want to get the massive information,however if you do not want to spend so much time,here http://www.HealthInsuranceIdeas.info/free-online-health-insurance.htm is a direct and good resource for your questions.

Donald asks…

Has anybody heard any good or bad things about Amerigroup health insurance?

My father is considering enrolling in Amerivantage HMO plan to supplement his medicare insurance. If he doesn’t switch over, then he will stay with an Aetna HMO.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

They are a good company but that’s about all anyone here can say to help you.

They only have low income plans that work with Medicaid and are for Dual Eligibles. Aetna has both low income and regular plans. So without knowing which Aetna plan he has there is no way to help.

Also, plans will vary greatly between states and even between counties, which means one plan may be better for him in one state while the other plan may be better in another state. That being said, if the agent your father is working with is independent and representing all of the major companies then go ahead and listen to the agent. If the agent is only with Amerigroup you may want to find another agent that represents more options.

One thing you may not know. If he is on Medicaid he has the option to switch plans at any time. He doesn’t have to wait until the Annual Enrollment Period to change.

Your Questions About Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies

Richard asks…

Can anyone explain the rationale or correct me if I am wrong on Supplemental Insurance?

Some companies are charging $196.00 per month and some $124.00 for Plan F Medicare supplement, the coverage is exactly the same as mandated by Medicare but apparently some people are willing to pay $72.00 per month more for the same product, can anyone explain?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

You’re absolutely correct. The trouble is, most people understand little, very little, about insurance. I watched a senior citizen couple as an insurance specialist was explaining their coverages in their existing policy and the extended coverages in a new policy. He agent spoke for about 25 minutes. Speaking slowly and asking if they understood. And always asking if the had any questions about any particular point. After all was said and done, he closed by telling them to think about it and he’d get back to them in a day or two. The thanked him. He left. I know the couple so I politely asked them a simple question about the new policy. They couldn’t answer the question. Why? Because most people don’t understand insurance; or have a mental block to learn about it. And it’s been that way for as long as I can remember. And perhaps why some people pay more for an insurance product that is available elsewhere at a less expensive rate. Good Luck and have a great week.

Mandy asks…

Are medical insurance supplemental plans offered in the UK and other places where medicine is socialized?

I hear that in the UK and in other countries that the socialized medicine is not good enough and many people are paying for supplemental private insurance to protect themselves? Will this be the way the insurance companies can still profit? Is there some deal going on in the USA to hand them over all the extra coverage plans?
I take note that lots of seniors in the USA have medicare supplement plans they privately pay for and it costs them thousands. When people are on medicare, they soon find out that the coverage is inadequate. Will the same be for those on some kind of US plan as well?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

It will be worse in America and the health insurance Co will make a real fortune, the bill doesn’t help health care it ruins it.

Ken asks…

I have BlueCross BlueShield supplement to my medicare. My plan is a Regional PPO.?

Recently, my chiropractor’s ordered an MRI and his insurance clerk set up the appointment. I told her my plan was a networked PPO. She also had made a copy of my insurance card. The appointment was made for me at an imaging center, and I paid $100.00 co-pay. Today I received paperwork from BCBS, and it looks as if the facility was out of network and I will have to pay over $400. Isn’t it the responsibility of the insurance clerk to choose an MRI facility that was in my network? The card says “Regional PPO.” I had mentioned to the clerk I had a PPO plan, and I am pretty sure I told the facility when I called them. Was it my responsibility to have checked with the insurance company myself? Or should I have relied on the doctor’s office to have chosen a facility within my network? There are several in my city. I learned after the fact, unfortunately. Usually, I do check myself online to see if the doctor is in my network, but this time I didn’t because I thought the clerks knew what they were doing. I had discussed my plan with them. Do I have any recourse?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

You can complain. This happened to my wife for an MRI. We had to pay. It,s the individuals responsibility to find out who is covered. I would still make a fuss.

Ruth asks…

Is Bankfers Life & Casualty Co good company to work for?

I just got call from them today for interview next week. I would like to know if anyone has worked for that company and what was your experience. Bankers Life is an insurance company specializing in selling term insurance,life insurace, annuitiesm medicare supplement for seniors. Looks like very legitimate company, more than Primerica or Vector Marketing or Amway.
They called me to come for interveiw and bring my copy of resume and dress professionally.
But it does not look as good as State Farm or Blue Cross Blue Shield. Certainly their products are limited. The thing that I see yellow flag is that when they called me, they did not tell for what position I would be interviewed. It does look like I will be interviewed for sale on commission. It is Ok, I may try as long as I won’t have to pay for training or license. It would waste of time and money. Also another turn-off would be for me to make cold-calls and visit homes. Anyway who wants strangers at home?
Currently I am actively looking for job and before they called I planned to apply-in-person in couple places in downtown and job agencies. Of course I used Monster, CareerBuilder but that does not seem enough to land on job. So I am asking here in this forum in order to determine if its worth to go to their interview or better go to downtown. Thanks in advance.

PS. I know the question here has been posted couple times but I did not find info about if I would have to pay upfront.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Anyone say straight comission. It’s a great job if you don’t want to make money. Primerica is roughly the same thing give or take with the advantage of offering something that people may actually want. Also Primerica is something you can do on the side so it’s possible that you can be doing something else at the same time. I can’t say Bankers Life is a scam but it’s not likely somewhere where you’ll find a career and for that matter neither is Primerica. State Farm, Prudential, Allstate are all similar in nature where you’ll work reall hard for a real long time and if (theres a real big IF) you survive long enough you’ll make a reasonable living.

If you have a pulse Bankers Life and Casualty wants you. They can pretend all they want but as long as you are currently on the 10 most wanted list you’re hired. There shouldn’t be any real significant upfront. I think I paid for a class to get licensed and then I realized that I made no money for the rest of the time. I didn’t lose a ton of money but it was a complete waste of my time.

Thomas asks…

Does medicare and medcaid cover weight loss surgery? Do they require the 6 month supervised diet?

I am dissabled and I have medicare as my primary insurance and wisconsin medicaid as my supplement. Also do they require the 6 month doctor supervised diet like other insurance companies do? Thankyou for all advice. btw I’m a 22 year old female, my primary doctor thinks the surgery would greatly improve my health and possibly resolve my type 2 diabetes, I go for the orientation next wednesday august 19th and then my consult with the surgeon is august 24th. Once I think about it, I doubt they would have set up my appointment if my insurance wouldn’t pay for it. But I would still like to know about the 6 month supervised diet thing.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

There are 5 basic types of bariatric surgery. Medicare will not cover sleeve gastrectomy or vertical gastric banding. They will cover Roux-en-Y bypass (RYGBP), Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS), and Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) under they following conditions: You must have a BMI of greater than 34, you must have at least one co-morbidity related to obesity, and you must have been previously unsuccessful with medical treatment for obesity. In addition, these procedures are only covered when performed at facilities that are certified by the American College of Surgeons as a Level 1 Bariatric Surgery Center or certified by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery as a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence.

You can find approved facilities by searching on this website: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/center/coverage.asp If you contact these facilities they will help your further.

Your Medicare will be primary and Medicaid will usually pick up most if not all costs that Medicare will not pay. However, that is dependent upon your state and your Medicaid level.

Your Questions About Medicare Supplement Insurance

Donald asks…

I would like to know if anyone knows of an affordable Medicare health insurance supplement in Arizona?

Thank you for your input!

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

You’ll want to contact an independent agent that deals with senior policies. There are many Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Supplement plans available in Arizona with premiums running from $0 to around $160 per month. Some of the Medicare Advantage plans have the Part D prescription drug coverage included. If you get a Medicare Advantage plan without part D or a supplement you will need a stand-alone Part D plan. You are not required to get a plan but there are restrictions and penalties when you do get on a drug plan.

The drug coverage is one of the biggest differences between plans. There can be several thousand dollars difference in co-pays over a year. My most drastic example in co-pay differences is $48,000, this was the difference with one medication on the formulary with one plan and not on the formulary with another as well as the dredded “donut hole”.

Linda asks…

what is the best supplement insurance for senoir citizens on medicare which also covers dental in Ohio area?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Medicare Supplement do not include dental. Some Medicare Advantage plans do have some dental included but the coverage is not very inclusive. You should visit a local independent agent that works with senior policies to find the best plan for your situation in Ohio. The agent should also have dental plans available if you can’t find a Medicare Advantage plan with decent coverage.

Laura asks…

I work in a nursing facility and need to know where I can get phone #’s for medicare co-insurance companies?

I work in a nursing facility in the admissions office and need to verify insurance prior to admitting a resident. I need phone #’s for insurance companies which are a supplement to medicare such as AARP, Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, United Health Care, Bankers Life, Humana Gold,and other insurance companies. Is there a list of these phone #’s? (toll free preferably but if not, other phone #’s will do) I need them to verify insurance coverage for residents.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

I would suggest calling your State Insurance Commissioner’s office. They would also have phone numbers for the insurance companies that provide coverage and, I’m betting, would have a publication or list of Medicare supplemental policies. This office is responsible for every insurance policy sold in your state. Good folks to know. Check it out! Good luck!

Richard asks…

I’m licensed to sell life insurance, medicare supplements, annuities and long term care…?

Do I qualify for a medical billing job? I heard it might be so…

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Why would you want a job making $7 an hour, when you have unlimited potential selling???

Ken asks…

MEDICARE A & B – What do you consider Medicare Supplement Plan/Ins?

Hello, please comment. We do not know which is the best insurance plan would be that supplements Medicare A & B. Let’s say ‘relatively’ money is not a consideration at this time.

We need to know what you think is the best (from experience).

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

It is very confusing. Depending upon what state and county you’re in there can be 25 to 50 Medicare Advantage plans (Part C), 40 to 55 stand alone Part D plans, and many supplement plans available. You’ll want to visit a local independent agent that represents many of these plans so you can compare the plans in one place. You do not pay anything extra if you use an agent.

Many Medicare Advantage plans include drug coverage. If you get a supplement or a Medicare Advantage plan without drug coverage you’ll need a separate stand alone Part D plan. The premium for the Medicare Advantage plans can be as low as $0. The premium for the supplement can vary widely (from around $100 to over $350 per month) depending upon the plan, your age, and health conditions. The Part D premium can run from $10 to nearly $100 per month.

Some things to consider. What drugs are you currently taking and does the plan cover those medications? What is your current health condition? Generally speaking, if you use medical services 2 or 3 times per month a supplement will be better; if you use medical services 2 or 3 times per year a Medicare Advantage plan will be better. If you want to keep your current doctor will he accept the Medicare Advantage plan? Are you comfortable paying the higher premium for a supplement with very little (if any) out of pocket costs or would you be better off with a lower premium Medicare Advantage plan that has small co-pays?

Your Questions About Medicare Supplement Insurance Cost

Thomas asks…

Can someone give good thoutful answers to this question? no ranting allowed?

Iam in the health insurance industry—dont shoot me-lol—–but, I sell health supplements to people on medicare. The exact same plans may coct a thousand dollar more from one company to the next. My company shops arounf for the cheapest price before we offer to people. If a private person would have that same right, wouldnt it only make sense that their premium will come down? Shopping for insurance across state lines would be a monumental reduction in premium cost for EVERYONE. Why not urge our representatives to allow this because it WOULDNT COST the government to do either. BTW—my private insurance is about 6000 a year. I would like to reduse it. What do you gys think?–Agin , no bashing or ranting

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Our politicians have made it pretty clear that they’re more interested in giving the government more control over our health care rather than reducing costs.

Susan asks…

HELP ME WITH HEALTH!!! 10 points to best answers?

12. Which law helps to allow donation of organs without cost to the donor?
Good Samaritan Act
HIPAA
Uniform Anatomical Gift Act
DSHEA

13. Lucretia is having abdominal pain and decides she needs to have certain points in her foot massaged to control her pain. What type of unconventional medicine is she using?
acupuncture
iridology
reflexology
naturopathy

14. Marcus is complaining of a headache and his friend suggests to him that he should have a spinal adjustment to make the pain go away. What form of unconventional medicine is this friend most likely suggesting?
homeopathy
chelation therapy
iridology
chiropractics

15. Which of the following does not contribute to homelessness?
substance abuse
catastrophic financial event
domestic violence
medical insurance

16. What government agency helps homeless people find shelter?
FDA
FAA
HUD
CDC

17. Which policy helps protect patients’ privacy and insurance coverage?
FDA
HIPAA
OSHA
CDC

18. You stop at the scene of an accident and notice a woman face down in a puddle of water. You turn her over and determine that she is unconscious. What law enables you to proceed with emergency care?
Good Samaritan Act
Uniform Anatomical Gift Act
Controlled Substances Act
Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act.

19. What law prevents heroin from being prescribed by physicians and health care providers?
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Workers’ Compensation Fund
Controlled Substances Act
Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act

20. Which of the following would help you to get the best health care information currently available?
Surf the .com websites for the most current treatment and prevention information.
Obtain oils from the neighbor to put on your feet to soothe your sore throat.
Buy the most current herb from the television infomercials.
Research a medical condition at the library of your local hospital.

21. Who pays most of the health care costs of patients over the age of sixty-five?
HIPAA
CHIP
Medicare
Institute of Medicine

22. Which of the following is not a reason why health care costs are spiraling upward in the United States?
lawsuits and need for legal coverage
advancements in technology
increased job losses and loss of benefits
decreasing numbers of uninsured

23. When people do not have adequate health insurance or good access to health care, where do they typically go for health care services?
the emergency department of a local hospital
a health and wellness clinic
a doctor that used to be on his or her insurance coverage
an herb shop for alternative medicine ideas

24. Which of the following is not a technological advancement of the twentieth century?
microscopes
artificial hearts
laser surgery
MRIs

25. In the United States, which drug resistant lung infection is increasing in frequency due to homelessness and other diseases?
malaria
tuberculosis
HIV/AIDS
cancer

26. Which of the following is not one of the top ten leading objectives outlined in Healthy People 2010?
Reduce the use of tobacco.
Increase the use of nutrient supplements in diets.
Reduce the use of harmful substances including drugs and alcohol.
Increase the use of helmets and safety belts to prevent unintentional injuries.

27. Which of the following environmental factors is not a major concern listed in Healthy People 2010 report?
available housing
food safety
clean water
landfills and waste

28. What is the main goal of Healthy People 2010?
disease control
health promotion
values clarification
ethical exploration

29. What is the role of OSHA?
regulates safety in the workplace
regulates employee wages
researches cancer and other diseases
researches sea life and finds new creatures

30. The value compassion affects a community by causing its members to do which of the following?
run organizations that help the needy
compete with one another for jobs and money
sue others when they break contracts
punish criminals when a crime is committed
Service Activity Questions

Please answer the following questions about your service experience (referred to in objective 4). These questions will not affect your grade on this Speedback assignment.

31. What category best describes where you per

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

12. Good samaritan act.
13. Reflexology.
14. Chiropractics.
15. Medical insurance.

Getting bored. Do the rest yrself

Michael asks…

Is Medicare A, B, and D enough health insurance? Do you need a $200+/month supplement to cover a heart bypass?

Is Medicare A, B, and D enough health insurance? Do you need a $200+/month supplement to cover a possible triple bypass at age 71? How much will a triple bypass cost? What much will come out of my savings?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

You need to talk to a local agent . . . But Medicare A alone certainly isn’t enough.

Medicare Parts A, B, C and D
Medicare is divided into four parts: Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D.

Part A: Hospital Insurance
Part A pays for most inpatient hospital care, some inpatient skilled nursing home care, some home health care, and hospice care. You are automatically enrolled in Part A when you join Medicare. If you qualify automatically for Medicare (through your own or your spouse’s Social Security record), you do not have to pay a monthly premium for Part A coverage.

If you have 30-39 Medicare-covered employment quarters, you may buy Part A for $216 per month (2006). If you have fewer than 30 quarters, you may purchase Part A for $393 per month (2006).

Part B: Medical Insurance
Part B pays for doctors’ services, outpatient hospital care, outpatient physical and speech therapy, some home health care, ambulance services, and some medical equipment and supplies.

Part B coverage is voluntary. The monthly premium ($96.40 in 2009) is automatically deducted from your Social Security check every month. If you don’t receive Social Security benefits, you will be billed for Part B.

Medicare Advantage Plans, also called Medicare Part C (combines A, B and D into an HMO or a PPO with a private insurer)
Part C governs the way Medicare benefits are provided by companies that contract with the Medicare program. Someone with Medicare who enrolls in a Medicare Advantage plan generally gets all of their medical services through that plan. Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO’s) and Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) contract with Medicare to provide Medicare benefits in a managed care setting, that since 2006 includes the new Medicare Part D benefit in all but a few HMOs. People enrolling in one of those plans without Part D benefits would need to buy separate coverage for that benefit.

You must pay the Part B premium in order to qualify for a Medicare Advantage Plan.

Many Seniors choose to remain with the traditional Medicare A and B arrangement (80/20, and MediGap), and sign up for a stand-alone Part D Plan.

Part D: Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Stand-Alone Plans with a private insurer)
Part D offers some help with prescription drugs. The coverage is voluntary and the monthly premium varies depending on how much coverage you have.

Laura asks…

Monetary assistance program for people with limited health care coverage?

I live in the state of california, age 64, not yet covered under medicare (age 65) and have limited insurance coverage. I have just recently been diagnosed with a disease where they doctor says I need to have a bone marrow transplant at the City of Hope Hospital, and I’m sure the procedure would be far more than my insurance would cover. Does anyone know of any program, State or Federal or otherwise that helps supplement the medical cost of this? Some kind of obscure monetary assistance program that isn’t really mentioned or talked about…Please, I’m hoping someone might have some information, I Greatly appreciate your thoughts.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

First, do check with your insurance. The may cover it, or may not. But, with your doctors at the transplant facility, you should have available a social worker that can help you figure it out. They will know the ins and outs of the local and governmental programs that can help you out, and can help you apply for them.

If you havnt been introduced to a social worker, call your doctor and ask to speak to one.

Sandra asks…

Is Medicare A, B, and D enough health insurance? Do you need a $200+/month supplement to cover a heart bypass?

Is Medicare A, B, and D enough health insurance? Do you need a $200+/month supplement to cover a heart bypass?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

If you need a heart bypass it is worth getting Part C (Medigap) insurance don’t you think? After the operation if you need rehab, Medicare pays for 60 days in nursing care. But remember, Medicare still only pays for what they think is 80 per cent of the physician and hospital cost with Parts A and B.

If you have a Kaiser Permanente in your area, operation and doctor are included but the post-op rehab is not.

Your Questions About Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies

Chris asks…

Medicare Supplement price increases based on age?

My husband and I had retiree insurance through his former employer until he was age 66. At that time, with only 10 days notice, the retiree insurance was cancelled due to the company‘s bankruptcy; thus he felt that he needed a Medicare supplement and I agreed. He purchased a plan recommended by the Medicare advisor at our local senior center. We just receive notice that his premium is about to increase by $155 per quarter due to his age. It is my understanding, now that I’m at the age to have to soon choose a supplement, that if he had health insurance during the 63 days before he purchased his supplement the premium could not increase due solely to his getting older. What am I misunderstanding or overlooking here?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

You can easily check your minimal health care rates in internet, for example here – health-quotes.isgreat.org

Susan asks…

What is open enrollment for Medicare?

My mom is coming up on open enrollment for medicare for the state of Ohio. She currently is on Medicaid. Im getting all kinds of Insurance company letters but im not sure what all of it means. Im I just picking out a another health insurance as a supplement to medicaid or what? And when is open enrollment due by?

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

It’s the time period where you can sign up, or make changes to, your Medicare benefits.

The due date should be specified in her paperwork.

David asks…

Regarding medicare and supplemental insurance vs. group ins. with my company?

I pay about $80 per month for group ins., my company pays the rest. I have a 20% co-pay and pay $20 for every dr. visit. Medicare and a supplement would cost about $180 per month, but would pay 100% coverage. I’m 67 years old. Which one should I do??

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

You should go back and read the details. I strongly, strongly suspect that “medicare and supplement pay 100%” is NOT CORRECT.

Sandra asks…

Receiving more responsibilities at work?

I got a parttime job while going to school at a Medicare Supplement Insurance Co. on Aug 2006 ($8.00 hr), part time ranging 2-5 hours a day. I then was promoted to stay as assistant for fulltime and a dollar raise on Feb 2007 ($9.00).

When I started working partime, my duties were answer phone, fax, print, process applications, and process agent contracts, open/close office.

When I got my raise, she added on the duties of becoming the customer/member representitive, which includes doing research of doctor claims the member received that wasn’t handled, calling their insurance company to solve issues regarding payments, changing bank draft info, cancelling insurance, (anything pertaining to helping member w/ their insurance claims).

She recently included…
1. Typing up recipes for her mother-in-law
2. Doing some personal/office bookeeping.
3. Mailing out her kids gifts.
4. Going through internet to compare drug plans.

Do you think I should ask for a raise and how?
This is kind of a personal business branch. She is married to the director. So he doesn’t care if she’s trying to save him a few bucks.

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

Just ask for one. Be firm and ask.

If you don’t get it you can do a few different things.
Complain,(that gets you nowhere.
Quit ( that gets you somewhere quick)
Go to the ladies boss and tell her that you have been doing personal stuff for her and that she should be fired and then ask her for a raise.. (crude but effective)
Nothing (be happy you have a job.

George asks…

I have to write a heartfelt letter to an insurance company..

They canceled my grandpas Medicare supplement because he didn’t pay the premium. He is sick (cancer 5th stage) and he forgets stuff.
He has been in and out of the hospital and is now on in-home hospice.
The insurance co. said that they would reactivate it but that they won’t pay any retroactive medical bills.
I was told that if I wrote them a letter to appeal to their emotions that it might help.
I need some ideas.

Thanks!

Medicare Insurance AZ staff answers:

You think a government employee has emotions?

The letter might make you feel better, but it’s not going to change anything.

However, if Grandpa is really slipping like that, he should get the paperwork done to set someone up with power of attorney, who can pay his bills for him. OR, you need to go to court and be made legal guardian for him. Otherwise, this is just going to keep happening.

Sorry. It’s tough to get old.