😊 My husband turned 65 in October, he applied for Medicare A and B; we don’t know which insurance to choose for his supplement and drug coverage, please advise😳
I truly appreciate your videos. I'm 68 & still working but have Part A. I've spoken to a Medicare "coach" who explained what the differences are between a Supplement or Advantage plan for me and my specific needs. It looks like I'll be taking a HD Plan G when I retire. Luckily for me, I live in NY, so I have flexibility with moving from one type of Plan to another, which is a "benefit" for the higher premiums I'll pay.😊
😊Thank you! It’s sad that we make something so difficult for folks who are in a category that need something simple to meet their basic human needs. Do you offer videos on how we can influence changes that would simplify healthcare for those in their retirement years? I’m a sandwich generation trying to help my mother navigate these choices.
😊 You are fantastic. I am a independent agent/broker with a large agency (so I won’t mention names) however - I follow you and other and I must say you provide a balanced approach and your information checks out. Finally, I always learn something from you. Thank you and Go Vols! I will continue to watch your channel and keep learning. Ps if I wasn’t a captured agent I would send you a resume. God bless you
I LOVE this guy!!! He's very knowledgeable, open, forthright, logical, and non-judgmental! As a SHIIP volunteer, I regularly watch his videos for more detailed information on how to break down the very complex and complicated issues with Medicare to my clients! Thank you! 😀
This is the most concise comparison of Medicare choices ever. I will be turning 64 soon and plan to contact Retirement Nerds for guidance in the coming year, thank you.
😊 whew! I am a registered nurse in Georgia and trying to help my soon retiring friends and help myself in a few years! One thing I tell folks is, if you adore your medical providers now, and can’t bear to not see them, think twice before getting an advantage plan. Some huge healthcare systems are simply refusing to accept United plans of any kind, and perhaps others. Until major renegotiations take place. In the meantime that has meant 1000s of patients have had to find new care teams. Thanks for keeping up with all this. I’m a subscriber now👍🏽
All Aetna in Chicago Illinois area doesnot pay or fairly negotiate orices to doctors/hospitalswith Ascencion Health systems! Congress & state legislators need to stop thuscraEe ness now! Lift the FICA tax cap so everyone pays taxes fairly ! Stop the lobbyists & insurance/pharmacy / middlemen who are robbing us & US government!
😊Thank you so much for this explanation and comparison! My mother (and father until his death) have a Medicare Supplement Plan J - which I understand no longer exists. We are all in Florida. They have had their supplement plan for a long time. And they have had very little out of pocket costs, if any, for their healthcare to the point I have been amazed at how little. Since my father's death, I am much more involved in my mother's finances and she has had breast cancer, a mastectomy, radiation treatments, physical therapy for osteopenia, a 1-week stay in the hospital where she was diagnosed with a-fib, and a brain MRI for determining a dementia diagnosis. And she has had virtually no bills to pay! Now I have a better idea why - because of your video! And because of this, I won't let her even consider an Advantage plan! On the other hand, I helped my aunt and uncle figure out how to survive on just their Soc Security income by encouraging them to find an Advantage Plan to switch to. My uncle has Alzheimer's and had let the finances go for a while - they were in a big hole financially. My aunt had no idea how long his dementia had been affecting their money, and had never been a part of it so was clueless. Part of the restructuring I did with them was to have them switch to an Advantage Plan so they could save over $550/month they were paying for the Supplement plans - money they just didn't have to spend. Even with that, and a house refi, my cousins and I rotate around sending them $100/week for groceries. My uncle said at one point that they just are living too long for what they had planned for in regards to retirement. 😂They met with an insurance agent/advisor and came up with a plan that works for them. I have worried about what that will mean if/when either of them has any major hospital stays, but so far, the biggest change was that they had to change doctors to use those in-network. It was difficult for them to make that change initially, but now they are much better off. They have been on the Advantage Plan for almost 3 years. I am not in the insurance business, I have had no training on Medicare, I am not old enough myself to be on Medicare, but my husband is. All of what I have learned about Medicare, supplements, and Advantage plans have been through his, my mother's and my aunt/uncle's experiences, so I am definitely NOT an expert! And I have long wondered why every year Advantage plans are being pushed so hard during Open Enrollment and sometimes wonder if my mother should switch at some point. But as long as she can afford the premiums of her Supplement J plan, I feel like I don't want her to give that up so she can have that flexibility of getting the best doctors she can if/when she needs more - and would be concerned that she wouldn't be able to get that level of care from an Advantage plan. I feel like that Plan J is the Golden Ticket! Thanks again, for that explanation and comparison! It really helps fill in my knowledge gaps!
😊I’m a bit frazzled by the amount of info I’ve listened to the past week. I had chosen a new advantage plan a few days ago but now I think I’ve made that choice prematurely. Since the oep is still here can I change to a medigap plan even though I just enrolled in the advantage plan? This is not my oep. Thanks for the great video. I like your style.
Everyone one of us have a unique situation to consider in relation of our finances, health, lifestyle, age and priorities in life. This presentation avoids taking sides about which Medicare plan is best, it is a good base to start and must be followed by due diligence from our part! Thank you Eric, congratulations!
Erik, Thank you for the even-handed evaluation of the Medicare plans. It is a great service for you to take the time and present the information to all of us free of charge. Of course, it is a marketing venue for your agency and should afford you many referrals. Since you're generous with your time and knowledge, I hope this effort affords you all of the business you want and you and your family a comfortable living.
😊I watched several Medicare related videos to prepare my transition to Medicare from an employer sponsored health plan. So far this is the most comprehensive and thorough one. Very helpful.
Eric does the best explaining this government health program. I watch other TH-camrs but this channel explain it clearly and viewers like me understand it well. 😊
Love how comprehensive and detailed your podcasts are when it comes to the differences between Medicare supplements, vs advantage. Turning 65 next year, and I will be faced with these decisions. Your podcasts have been a great help in helping me to make an informed decision. Given my family history of catastrophic illness, Plan G looks like the best choice for me. The only drawback is the extra expense of trying to find affordable drug, dental, and vision supplements. ☺
Appreciate you watching ☺️ So glad to hear they are helpful! G is super solid. Use an agent to shop things for you and find the right plans (supplement, drug, dental, etc.).
😊. Medicare is complicated. I spent months researching what was right for me. Thank you for the objective coverage. Everyone needs to make their selection based on their own health and finances. Finding an objective Medicare advisor was not that easy. Met with one who gave me 2 advantages plan options. When I asked about supplement planes I was told they don’t have dental. I found a different advisor
Smart on your part. I think all agents should present both to people, show how they work, and trust that you know yourself well enough to be able to identify which would work well for you. Appreciate you! ☺
😊 Prior to my husband's death a few years ago we signed up for the Advantage plan for the added benefits. In our rural California area it was a mistake. My PCP was in a different town & I struggled to get an appt. Standard Medicare plus Plan G supplement gives me the greatest coverage for my geographical location and transportation availability.
Hi, great information, even though I just finished my yearly Medicare certifications. Always information overload, so I appreciate your simple and precise explanation. I love my Advantage plan because it suits my finances and my referrals always get approved. I’m also Medi-Medi. I also do what’s best for the customer. Subscribed.
Agreed! However, the VAST majority of agents are trying their best to do what's right for you. As is the case with any profession, a few bad apples cause problems for everyone.
My wife and I know both supplements and advantage plans. We have had them both for over 10 years. Both work as designed but the Advantage plan (PPO) with UNH has been the best overall. Saving us thousands of dollars and still offering good coverage with modest co-pays and we can use it anywhere in the USA. You'll be hard-pressed to find a doctor or hospital that does not accept this UNH plan.
Hi ty. I just changed from Humana PPO to UHC PPO but I am turning 65 in Feb & I think I need to get Supplement G. But what if we all change back to Original Medicare will I still be able to get G without medical review or price increase?
@@Cynthia-i7c Not without going to under writing if they find anything they don't like on your record you'll be turn down And your mixing up Originally Medicare with Advantage plan
Excellent, great information. I have dealt with both supplement and Advantage Plan. Advantage plan does save money with vision and dental, but I will probably switch back to Medicare now I am 70 and have seen my older siblings having medical issues. When you start having health issues, the freedom to go to any doctor or hospital for any kind of medical needs.and not worry about all of it.😀
😊 Thank you so much for this video. I work front desk at a PCP office. Some of this I have learned just from doing it every day, but you made it so very straightforward and clear. I plan to binge watch your other ones too. My patients ask me all the time. I will be recommending this video!! The one thing I will say is we see a lot of problems with the Advantage plans when it comes to having to see a Specialist. Many of the Specialists we refer to are now not accepting the Advantage plans or they will say we only allow a certain % of our practice each month with this plan so you can’t see the doctor until 2 or 3 months out. Plus they need referrals and pre certifications and they are constantly changing their formulary on the drugs. Also, we are in a semi rural area outside a major metropolitan area and they tell me that all the transportation benefits don’t work out here because it’s outside the mileage range. I do tell my patients, if you can afford it and want more choice, you should steer clear of Advantage plans. But you’ve helped me see why some people might choose one.
Good video as always..my only criticism is that drug coverage is a much more complex issue in 2025 than you imply. In fact, insurers have responded to the new Medicare rules by removing a number of meds from their formulary (or moving them down a tier or 2). The $2,000 cap is as phony as a $3 bill because it only applies to meds in the formulary. In my particular case, a $1,500 total cost in 2024 (Part D premium and co-pays) would become $11,000+ in 2025 if I stayed in the same plan. Even moving to the lowest cost plan is estimated to cost $5,000. No changes in meds, and using generics in every case possible. The effect is huge - and significantly underplayed. 😊
I agree with you. Drug coverage is a huge issue. In the context of this video in particular, it isn't really handled too differently between the two routes people can take. Advantage plans tend to have no premium cost and lower deductibles, but you're tied to the full plan based on the formulary where with a supplement plan, you can shop around and don't have to change all your other coverage to change your drug plan. Part D is a mess this year. No doubt about that.
Incredible work, as usual. 😊 Medicare Cost plans are interesting too. Sort of a hybrid between Supp and Advantage but only offered in some counties. Also, adding hospital indemnity/cancer insurance can change the cost and risk exposure on Advantage plans. It’s almost like adding a low cost Med supp to an advantage plan. Thanks Eric.
@jeffmiller8209 😊 are 2025 medigap rates available? If so, why aren't they on medicare gov? Is there any word on when 2025 rates will be on medicare gov? Thanks!
@paulbmiles medigap rate updates are not on the same calendar schedule. They dont all renew on January 1. Different insurance companies have different renewal dates (Any month of the year) so the company you're with will affect that.
@jeffmiller8209 Thanks for those replies. Wow, that is interesting. I'm still in the budgeting phase to sign up at 1/1/2026. So one could sign up for the first time, now for instance under a 2024 rate and potentially end up with a poor choice, price wise? Btw, I'm thinking Part N, in Ohio, Issue age.
😊 Thank you so much for such an objective comparison of the two. I am turning 65 next March so I have to make a decision about this within the next few months. I am still currently massively unsure about which way to go. Unfortunately, my crystal ball is broken that should be telling me how sick or injured I may become as I get older. I will continue to watch your videos and I thank you so much for providing this information.
Medicare can be so confusing, thank you for making it more clear between the two plans, I live in SoCal and I will be watching the video for my state!! 😊
Very informative, 😊😊really like the sheet comparison. I now know either decision at worst is a $3300 risk. Does the advantage plan max oop include out of network also. sorry if you said that in here. Thanks!
Some areas of the US have hospitals and providers 😊 who will not accept Medicare Advantage plans or will stop accepting them in 2025. That's also a factor to consider, especially in rural areas or urban/suburban areas with hospital monopolies.
@@mapguy32 Agreed. A major hospital system in northwest Indiana dropped two Advantage providers in April last year. If you were on those plans you were SOL until open enrollment. And even then, will your future plan/carrier be safe?
@@GetAtThat 😊Erik has a video that sheds light on the exaggerated claims about drops which some people post here. It is a very low risk. Approvals are another exaggerated risk, as Erik reveals.
Very true. Networks are important to consider. At about the 10:30 in this video: th-cam.com/video/ewH3TXydopc/w-d-xo.html We go over those instances and the network problems.
@@GetAtThat most of the time you have special election periods that allow you to change mid year. I haven’t run into a situation yet I haven’t been able to change a client mid year.
😊 Very nicely done video. I am a case manager and see people with Advantage plans all the time. They can’t get insurance auth for rehab and so many other things. I see it daily. But this video was very informative. Thank you
I have a question about the risk that over the next 20 years that what happen to the F plan might happen to G vs N plan I am thinking to go N plan since attained age increases and I plan for Long retirement for me and my wife. I am assuming if you can afford a G plan, then I can afford N play with Copays ( Doctor and Emergency Room)😊 4:04
😊Thanks for the straight forward explanation of the two options, I am not retiring for anther two years but trying to understand the entire process so I will be fully informed when I do make my decision. Today, I take no drugs and I am healthy and active so I think the Advantage plan would be a good option to start as I will probably need the Dental and Vision more than the medical.
😊Well explained, moved to location where existing Advantage plan is not available for my Mom. She lives with me on a limited income. Also during this time my Mom was diagnosed with Stage 4 Non Small Cell Lung Cancer, which was a shock, we had no idea. I'm concerned about pre-existing conditions now. Suggestions? Also, trying to find you video on for Kentucky.
😊Another great and informative video, Erik. Your non-biased look at ALL options when discussing Supplement vs Advantage comes through crystal clear, as usual. I appreciate that. - -Lyle
Very helpful video for this 64 year old. I'm thinking Advantage for me as I'm relatively healthy and have a pretty large HSA that could cover a few bad years 😊. I do travel a lot, so I'm not sure that this is the best choice as I can afford supplement. Thoughts? Now I need to see the "switching to supplement" video to see how problematic that might be. Thank you!
Great summary ☺☺. I chose a MA plan initially to save money in my HSA for later in life. Getting a buy back so reduces my Part B premium and paying all premiums out of pocket letting the HSA grow tax free. Now trying to figure out when might be the best time to convert to a Gap and Part D plan to cap MOOP. I think the government is going to eventually do a hybrid that everyone has to convert to and at that time there will be no underwriting. Not worried about underwriting now since I'm in good health, but they are gonna have to go to a common base plan at some point to simplify a horribly complicated system.
😊 I checked this video because I heard my grandma talked about choosing her healthcare plan. I didn’t understand what she was discussing about plans with my parents. I think I have health insurance from my parents. Anyway, I understand a bit more about healthcare from watching this video, not 100% though.
Great info and more importantly, HONESTY. Your mom would be so proud of you...I imagine she was proud of you since the day you were born, but more-so in your adult life! Let me offer my condolences on the loss of your "Fishing" buddy and partner. Finally, thank you for helping me as I start my retirement in the next 2 years. I won't be able to complain that I was uninformed. B
Regarding Advantage plans, he is speaking strictly about an HMO ..there are also PPO Advantage plans that allow far less restrictions while also having the financial benefits of an HMO. Overall for many this presentation is helpful.
Ive enjoyed many of your videos. And thanks to your great research I have already decided the route I'm taking. Off topic: If I promise not to wear it on the same days as you, where do you get your'e shirts? I really like the look!
Thank you so much!! Primo Golf Apparel! primogolfapparel.com/ They were big online when Phil Mickelson wore their joggers to The Open in Britain. The owner is a friend of mine :) There is a discount code: "RetirementNerds" if you find anything you like and want a discount there. And you can wear them on the same day. Twinning!
This is a very good comparison of plans, but I think they should also focus on out of network costs. My disabled sister in law was diagnosed with cancer. We specifically brought her to a hospital because it was identified as in-network by the Medicare Advantage plan she has. Six months later, we found out that the Advantage plan was no longer in network. She is now responsible for $13,000 annually as the out of network maximum amount. If you are seriously ill, Advantage plans seriously limit where you can be treated.
I take care of a feral cat colony in the city where I used to practice dentistry. I would like to know if the Plan G supplement with the Rx plan supplement would cover a Tier 4 medication ? Thanks
Thank you for watching! 😺 Whether or not it is covered will depend on the drug plan. Supplement plans do not cover prescription drugs. Standalone drug plans may or may not depending on the company and their formulary.
☺ Another excellent video packed full of information. I have a few years to go before I am eligible for Medicare and this channel is helping me understand a lot of information I will need to make the best decision for me and my wife. Thank you!
That caveat at the end is very important to many people who will opt for supplement plans because they want the greater freedom to select their doctors, and also not have to wait for, and hope for their insurance companies approving procedures. Also critical, once a person is on an Advantage plan, they can't move in most states to a supplement without going through medical underwriting, so when they're sick it's too late to switch, so they're trapped on Medicare Advantage, which is no laughing matter. 😊I do appreciate the complete view you provide in your videos, even though I detect a subtle push toward MA plans.
Appreciate you taking the time to watch ☺ Zero push to advantage plans. In fact, in the latest video yesterday I share the percentage of clients who go with one or the other. This is a teaser... so check it out and it may surprise you. It's very hard for the Advantage plan to lose the cost comparisons in the vast majority of cases when put up against a Plan N or Plan G. I try to let everyone know that the conversation is not always about cost though, so other factors definitely come into play.
☺ Hi Erik, as usual, your videos are one of a kind. I really love it when you point out the clickbait videos. There are many terrible Medicare videos on YT that make me furious.
Thank you for your support! Means a lot. ☺ I agree... there is a level of thumbnail design that has to happen. Need to get the click, but there are some serious oversteps in my opinion.
😊Well, last year 2023 my husband ended up in the hospital with prostate cancer, and then on an emergency basis with a detached retina. With our supplement G plan, there were almost no costs with the exception of our premium costs. My sense is that if you live in a major urban area and can scope out the doctors under an advantage plan, and you’re unlikely to need to ever go out of network, you may be fine. My mom had Kaiser in Southern California until she went on hospice care and passed away. It was seamless for her as she worked for a government agency and had it before she retired, too. We moved to central Texas before we went on Medicare and without a Kaiser-type option here, we decided to pay upfront and stick with a supplement plan. I’m glad we did for 2023! We do have maximum flexibility with doctors and adjunct care like physical therapy, but yes, we are paying more for this. Luckily, we are in a financial position to do so, which isn’t the case for everyone.
We each had advantage plans for two years after we retired. The limited choice of providers and waiting for treatment approvals got to be annoying. Fortunately we were able to switch to to original medicare and a plan G. More expensive but for us, well worth it. 😆
Might I also add that a number of larger companies offering Advantage plans now offer ‘national’ networks. Still not the same benefit you might get with a Supplement, but not as limiting as a strictly ‘local’ network (though you have to do the research to figure out the network providers in whatever location you’re traveling to).😊
Thanks for putting up this video. Great stuff! 😊 You are so right, at looking at what works for each individual and not a one size fits all approach to supplement vs advantage plans.
No the big question is will "Advantage" deny my claim? Please do a video fast. I'm thinking of going through the underwriting and switching back to original after 10yrs of good luck with C. This is the most important video you could do. Fox
😊
😊 My husband turned 65 in October, he applied for Medicare A and B; we don’t know which insurance to choose for his supplement and drug coverage, please advise😳
I truly appreciate your videos. I'm 68 & still working but have Part A. I've spoken to a Medicare "coach" who explained what the differences are between a Supplement or Advantage plan for me and my specific needs. It looks like I'll be taking a HD Plan G when I retire. Luckily for me, I live in NY, so I have flexibility with moving from one type of Plan to another, which is a "benefit" for the higher premiums I'll pay.😊
😊Great video! You didn’t include the copayments that come with Advantage plans.
😊Thank you! It’s sad that we make something so difficult for folks who are in a category that need something simple to meet their basic human needs. Do you offer videos on how we can influence changes that would simplify healthcare for those in their retirement years? I’m a sandwich generation trying to help my mother navigate these choices.
😊 You are fantastic. I am a independent agent/broker with a large agency (so I won’t mention names) however - I follow you and other and I must say you provide a balanced approach and your information checks out. Finally, I always learn something from you. Thank you and Go Vols! I will continue to watch your channel and keep learning. Ps if I wasn’t a captured agent I would send you a resume. God bless you
I LOVE this guy!!! He's very knowledgeable, open, forthright, logical, and non-judgmental! As a SHIIP volunteer, I regularly watch his videos for more detailed information on how to break down the very complex and complicated issues with Medicare to my clients! Thank you! 😀
Thank you so much for watching and your service as a SHIP volunteer!!
😊thank you
😊 The best and easiest to understand comparison I've seen yet. Great visuals, too. Seeing the whole picture at once really helps, thank you so much!
So glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching! ☺
This is the most concise comparison of Medicare choices ever. I will be turning 64 soon and plan to contact Retirement Nerds for guidance in the coming year, thank you.
Thank you so much for watching! Got your email. Appreciate you!
Once in supplement can I change to Advantage plan in 2026? TIA
@@mmirafuentess1990no
A lot will change before you hit 67.
😊 whew! I am a registered nurse in Georgia and trying to help my soon retiring friends and help myself in a few years! One thing I tell folks is, if you adore your medical providers now, and can’t bear to not see them, think twice before getting an advantage plan. Some huge healthcare systems are simply refusing to accept United plans of any kind, and perhaps others. Until major renegotiations take place. In the meantime that has meant 1000s of patients have had to find new care teams.
Thanks for keeping up with all this. I’m a subscriber now👍🏽
Thank you so much for watching and subscribing! ☺️
I am in NW metro Atlanta, and a very large medical system may not accept Humana Advantage Plans starting in March of next year.
All Aetna in Chicago Illinois area doesnot pay or fairly negotiate orices to doctors/hospitalswith Ascencion Health systems!
Congress & state legislators need to stop thuscraEe ness now! Lift the FICA tax cap so everyone pays taxes fairly ! Stop the lobbyists & insurance/pharmacy / middlemen who are robbing us & US government!
😊Thank you so much for this explanation and comparison! My mother (and father until his death) have a Medicare Supplement Plan J - which I understand no longer exists. We are all in Florida. They have had their supplement plan for a long time. And they have had very little out of pocket costs, if any, for their healthcare to the point I have been amazed at how little. Since my father's death, I am much more involved in my mother's finances and she has had breast cancer, a mastectomy, radiation treatments, physical therapy for osteopenia, a 1-week stay in the hospital where she was diagnosed with a-fib, and a brain MRI for determining a dementia diagnosis. And she has had virtually no bills to pay! Now I have a better idea why - because of your video! And because of this, I won't let her even consider an Advantage plan!
On the other hand, I helped my aunt and uncle figure out how to survive on just their Soc Security income by encouraging them to find an Advantage Plan to switch to. My uncle has Alzheimer's and had let the finances go for a while - they were in a big hole financially. My aunt had no idea how long his dementia had been affecting their money, and had never been a part of it so was clueless. Part of the restructuring I did with them was to have them switch to an Advantage Plan so they could save over $550/month they were paying for the Supplement plans - money they just didn't have to spend. Even with that, and a house refi, my cousins and I rotate around sending them $100/week for groceries. My uncle said at one point that they just are living too long for what they had planned for in regards to retirement. 😂They met with an insurance agent/advisor and came up with a plan that works for them. I have worried about what that will mean if/when either of them has any major hospital stays, but so far, the biggest change was that they had to change doctors to use those in-network. It was difficult for them to make that change initially, but now they are much better off. They have been on the Advantage Plan for almost 3 years.
I am not in the insurance business, I have had no training on Medicare, I am not old enough myself to be on Medicare, but my husband is. All of what I have learned about Medicare, supplements, and Advantage plans have been through his, my mother's and my aunt/uncle's experiences, so I am definitely NOT an expert! And I have long wondered why every year Advantage plans are being pushed so hard during Open Enrollment and sometimes wonder if my mother should switch at some point. But as long as she can afford the premiums of her Supplement J plan, I feel like I don't want her to give that up so she can have that flexibility of getting the best doctors she can if/when she needs more - and would be concerned that she wouldn't be able to get that level of care from an Advantage plan. I feel like that Plan J is the Golden Ticket!
Thanks again, for that explanation and comparison! It really helps fill in my knowledge gaps!
Thank you so much for watching and helping your family through this!
😊I’m a bit frazzled by the amount of info I’ve listened to the past week. I had chosen a new advantage plan a few days ago but now I think I’ve made that choice prematurely. Since the oep is still here can I change to a medigap plan even though I just enrolled in the advantage plan? This is not my oep. Thanks for the great video. I like your style.
I congratulate you on creating such a concise overview without going down a bunch of rabbit trails the adds confusion to the overall picture!
Thank you so much for spending the time to watch :)
Everyone one of us have a unique situation to consider in relation of our finances, health, lifestyle, age and priorities in life. This presentation avoids taking sides about which Medicare plan is best, it is a good base to start and must be followed by due diligence from our part!
Thank you Eric, congratulations!
Thank you so much for watching! :)
Erik, Thank you for the even-handed evaluation of the Medicare plans. It is a great service for you to take the time and present the information to all of us free of charge. Of course, it is a marketing venue for your agency and should afford you many referrals. Since you're generous with your time and knowledge, I hope this effort affords you all of the business you want and you and your family a comfortable living.
😊I watched several Medicare related videos to prepare my transition to Medicare from an employer sponsored health plan. So far this is the most comprehensive and thorough one. Very helpful.
This means a lot! Thank you so much for spending the time with me and your kind words! ☺
Thanks!
Wow! Thank you so much!!
Eric does the best explaining this government health program. I watch other TH-camrs but this channel explain it clearly and viewers like me understand it well. 😊
Thank you so much for saying this! ☺
You are way nicer than we deserve!
I also wanted to say you are very helpful and thorough in your explanations. Thank you and keep up the great job!
Great explanation! Shared it with my friends!
Thank you so much!
Thank you Eric. Congratulations on 142,000+ subscribers. 😊
Thank you so much! Pretty crazy!
Greatly informative as always and very clearly explained!! 😊
Thank you so much! 😊
Love how comprehensive and detailed your podcasts are when it comes to the differences between Medicare supplements, vs advantage. Turning 65 next year, and I will be faced with these decisions. Your podcasts have been a great help in helping me to make an informed decision. Given my family history of catastrophic illness, Plan G looks like the best choice for me. The only drawback is the extra expense of trying to find affordable drug, dental, and vision supplements. ☺
Appreciate you watching ☺️
So glad to hear they are helpful! G is super solid. Use an agent to shop things for you and find the right plans (supplement, drug, dental, etc.).
😊. Medicare is complicated. I spent months researching what was right for me. Thank you for the objective coverage. Everyone needs to make their selection based on their own health and finances. Finding an objective Medicare advisor was not that easy. Met with one who gave me 2 advantages plan options. When I asked about supplement planes I was told they don’t have dental. I found a different advisor
Smart on your part. I think all agents should present both to people, show how they work, and trust that you know yourself well enough to be able to identify which would work well for you. Appreciate you! ☺
You are so helpful!😊
Thank you so much, Kathy! 😊
This is a great discussion. Thanks!☺️
Thank you! 😊
😊 Prior to my husband's death a few years ago we signed up for the Advantage plan for the added benefits. In our rural California area it was a mistake. My PCP was in a different town & I struggled to get an appt. Standard Medicare plus Plan G supplement gives me the greatest coverage for my geographical location and transportation availability.
Thank you for watching and sharing your experience 😊
Hi, great information, even though I just finished my yearly Medicare certifications. Always information overload, so I appreciate your simple and precise explanation. I love my Advantage plan because it suits my finances and my referrals always get approved. I’m also Medi-Medi. I also do what’s best for the customer. Subscribed.
Thank you so much for watching!
Love the balanced, reflective approach. Thank you for providing such valuable information!!!😊
Thank you so much for watching! ☺
Thank you for the information on the comparisons on the different plans.😃
Appreciate you watching! 😊
Excellent video, thank you so much!
Thank you!
😌Thank you for your knowledge and the wonderful way you explain everything!!!
Thank you so much for watching! 😊
I appreciate your videos. Shame on the agents that lead individuals to a plan because of the commissions. Everyone is an individual. 😊
Agreed! However, the VAST majority of agents are trying their best to do what's right for you. As is the case with any profession, a few bad apples cause problems for everyone.
My wife and I know both supplements and advantage plans. We have had them both for over 10 years. Both work as designed but the Advantage plan (PPO) with UNH has been the best overall. Saving us thousands of dollars and still offering good coverage with modest co-pays and we can use it anywhere in the USA. You'll be hard-pressed to find a doctor or hospital that does not accept this UNH plan.
Thank you for sharing your experience!
UR full of shit pal NO advantage plan is good when your sick
Hi ty. I just changed from Humana PPO to UHC PPO but I am turning 65 in Feb & I think I need to get Supplement G. But what if we all change back to Original Medicare will I still be able to get G without medical review or price increase?
@@Cynthia-i7c Do u know what ur saying you'd better read up ur in left field
@@Cynthia-i7c Not without going to under writing if they find anything they don't like on your record you'll be turn down And your mixing up Originally Medicare with Advantage plan
Thanks again Erik!👏
Thank you so much for watching!
Thank you! This is very digestible and really helps understand the options!
So glad it is helpful! Thank you for spending time with me!
Thank you my friend, for the Medicare information plans for 2025 thank you Eddie
Great video, full of information. Thank you 😊
Thank you for watching! 😊
Thank you for all your clarity for the confusion I had!💛
Appreciate you watching!
😊love your videos my husband & I are learning so much !!
So glad to hear they are helpful! Appreciate you both watching! 😊
☺️ Great video, so informative!
Thank you so much for watching! ☺
I love your videos. Thanks for the efforts to educate us. 😊
Appreciate you tuning in! 😊
😊got it. I am about 3-4 weeks away from having to chose for the first time. I will be checking in with my Fidelity advisor shortly. Thx.
Thank you for watching! ☺
Great presentation! Thanks for the best explanation and comparison of advantage vs supplement 👍🏼👏🏼
Appreciate you! ☺
😊 Thank you SO much for the great work you are doing on your channel!
You are too kind ☺
Sure do appreciate you!
🙂Great video & appreciate how you explain the differences. I'm now a subscriber.
Thank you so much!!
As always, your videos and information are some of THE best anywhere! Thank you! 😊
Appreciate you saying this! Means a lot! Thank you for your support ☺
Thank you for your videos. I share them with a lot of people. I always feel more at ease with this information.
Thank you so much for watching and sharing! Appreciate you and happy to know they are helpful :)
Excellent, great information. I have dealt with both supplement and Advantage Plan. Advantage plan does save money with vision and dental, but I will probably switch back to Medicare now I am 70 and have seen my older siblings having medical issues. When you start having health issues, the freedom to go to any doctor or hospital for any kind of medical needs.and not worry about all of it.😀
Thank you so much for watching and sharing your thought process! ☺
😊 Thank you so much for this video. I work front desk at a PCP office. Some of this I have learned just from doing it every day, but you made it so very straightforward and clear. I plan to binge watch your other ones too. My patients ask me all the time. I will be recommending this video!!
The one thing I will say is we see a lot of problems with the Advantage plans when it comes to having to see a Specialist. Many of the Specialists we refer to are now not accepting the Advantage plans or they will say we only allow a certain % of our practice each month with this plan so you can’t see the doctor until 2 or 3 months out. Plus they need referrals and pre certifications and they are constantly changing their formulary on the drugs. Also, we are in a semi rural area outside a major metropolitan area and they tell me that all the transportation benefits don’t work out here because it’s outside the mileage range. I do tell my patients, if you can afford it and want more choice, you should steer clear of Advantage plans. But you’ve helped me see why some people might choose one.
Thank you so much!! 😊
Appreciate you watching. Lots of videos here. If you have any specific questions, happy to point you in the right direction 🙂
😊ok, nowtadd the wrinkle of retired military with TriCare For Life. No need for part D, but what about Advantage plans?
😊You take such a complex subject and make is understandable. thank you
Trying to help in some small way :)
Thank you so much for watching! ☺
Good video as always..my only criticism is that drug coverage is a much more complex issue in 2025 than you imply. In fact, insurers have responded to the new Medicare rules by removing a number of meds from their formulary (or moving them down a tier or 2). The $2,000 cap is as phony as a $3 bill because it only applies to meds in the formulary. In my particular case, a $1,500 total cost in 2024 (Part D premium and co-pays) would become $11,000+ in 2025 if I stayed in the same plan. Even moving to the lowest cost plan is estimated to cost $5,000. No changes in meds, and using generics in every case possible. The effect is huge - and significantly underplayed. 😊
I agree with you. Drug coverage is a huge issue.
In the context of this video in particular, it isn't really handled too differently between the two routes people can take. Advantage plans tend to have no premium cost and lower deductibles, but you're tied to the full plan based on the formulary where with a supplement plan, you can shop around and don't have to change all your other coverage to change your drug plan.
Part D is a mess this year. No doubt about that.
Thank you from Rochester NY.
You have the best educational
and informative info. Couldn't find the blushing emoji😊
Thank you so much for watching! And you found it! ☺
Very helpful comparison of both plans, especially as I am trying to understand them from an agent perspective.
Thank you so much for watching!
Thank you for your información 😂. I still like better the Medicare supplement plan G. Happy and prosperous 2025, and God bless you.
Thank you so much for watching! Supplement Plan G is amazing! ☺
Thank you Erik!! always love your valuable information😊
Appreciate you! ☺️
Incredible work, as usual. 😊 Medicare Cost plans are interesting too. Sort of a hybrid between Supp and Advantage but only offered in some counties. Also, adding hospital indemnity/cancer insurance can change the cost and risk exposure on Advantage plans. It’s almost like adding a low cost Med supp to an advantage plan. Thanks Eric.
100% Thank you so much Adam! ☺
Thank you, Eric!!!
Appreciate you Jeff!
@jeffmiller8209 😊 are 2025 medigap rates available? If so, why aren't they on medicare gov? Is there any word on when 2025 rates will be on medicare gov?
Thanks!
@paulbmiles medigap rate updates are not on the same calendar schedule. They dont all renew on January 1. Different insurance companies have different renewal dates (Any month of the year) so the company you're with will affect that.
@@Theretirementnerds Thank you, Eric! I'm so glad you picked up on Paul's question. I had no clue how to answer that.
@jeffmiller8209 Thanks for those replies. Wow, that is interesting. I'm still in the budgeting phase to sign up at 1/1/2026. So one could sign up for the first time, now for instance under a 2024 rate and potentially end up with a poor choice, price wise?
Btw, I'm thinking Part N, in Ohio, Issue age.
😊 Thank you so much for such an objective comparison of the two. I am turning 65 next March so I have to make a decision about this within the next few months. I am still currently massively unsure about which way to go. Unfortunately, my crystal ball is broken that should be telling me how sick or injured I may become as I get older. I will continue to watch your videos and I thank you so much for providing this information.
Thank you so much for spending time with me! ☺
It's a lot to juggle. Getting an idea of the plans in your area helps make it less intimidating :)
Medicare can be so confusing, thank you for making it more clear between the two plans, I live in SoCal and I will be watching the video for my state!! 😊
Thank you so much for watching! ☺
Here is the California video: th-cam.com/video/zCcgp0BUY3o/w-d-xo.html
😊- This was so helpful
Thank you for watching! 😊
Good video Erik. Thanks.😊
Thank you Tom! ☺
Very informative, 😊😊really like the sheet comparison. I now know either decision at worst is a $3300 risk. Does the advantage plan max oop include out of network also. sorry if you said that in here. Thanks!
Thank you this was very informative
Thank you so much for watching!
Some areas of the US have hospitals and providers 😊 who will not accept Medicare Advantage plans or will stop accepting them in 2025. That's also a factor to consider, especially in rural areas or urban/suburban areas with hospital monopolies.
@@mapguy32 Agreed. A major hospital system in northwest Indiana dropped two Advantage providers in April last year. If you were on those plans you were SOL until open enrollment. And even then, will your future plan/carrier be safe?
@@GetAtThat 😊Erik has a video that sheds light on the exaggerated claims about drops which some people post here. It is a very low risk. Approvals are another exaggerated risk, as Erik reveals.
Very true. Networks are important to consider.
At about the 10:30 in this video: th-cam.com/video/ewH3TXydopc/w-d-xo.html
We go over those instances and the network problems.
@@GetAtThat most of the time you have special election periods that allow you to change mid year. I haven’t run into a situation yet I haven’t been able to change a client mid year.
😊 Very nicely done video. I am a case manager and see people with Advantage plans all the time. They can’t get insurance auth for rehab and so many other things. I see it daily. But this video was very informative. Thank you
Thank you so much! ☺️
Thanks, camn I ask where you live? I am in the Florida panhandle.
Excellent info. Thanks 😊
Thank you! ☺️
Outstanding presentation! A+
Thank you!
I have a question about the risk that over the next 20 years that what happen to the F plan might happen to G vs N plan I am thinking to go N plan since attained age increases and I plan for Long retirement for me and my wife. I am assuming if you can afford a G plan, then I can afford N play with Copays ( Doctor and Emergency Room)😊 4:04
Yes, could very well happen with Plan G going the way of Plans F and J before it with Plan N filling the spot of most popular in the future
Very comprehensive review, thanks for putting it together. 😊
Thank you so much! ☺️
😊Thanks for the straight forward explanation of the two options, I am not retiring for anther two years but trying to understand the entire process so I will be fully informed when I do make my decision. Today, I take no drugs and I am healthy and active so I think the Advantage plan would be a good option to start as I will probably need the Dental and Vision more than the medical.
Thank you for taking the time to watch! 😊
😊Well explained, moved to location where existing Advantage plan is not available for my Mom. She lives with me on a limited income. Also during this time my Mom was diagnosed with Stage 4 Non Small Cell Lung Cancer, which was a shock, we had no idea. I'm concerned about pre-existing conditions now. Suggestions? Also, trying to find you video on for Kentucky.
Looks like you found the KY video.
If she can afford the costs, definitely something to consider.
😊Another great and informative video, Erik. Your non-biased look at ALL options when discussing Supplement vs Advantage comes through crystal clear, as usual. I appreciate that. - -Lyle
Thank you so much Lyle! Appreciate you!
Very helpful video for this 64 year old. I'm thinking Advantage for me as I'm relatively healthy and have a pretty large HSA that could cover a few bad years 😊. I do travel a lot, so I'm not sure that this is the best choice as I can afford supplement. Thoughts? Now I need to see the "switching to supplement" video to see how problematic that might be. Thank you!
Thank you for watching! 😊
Lots of variables in there including where you live!
Thank you for the balanced and informative video.
Thank you so much for taking the time to watch my friend! Appreciate you!
Excellent description and comparison of the various plans based on costs and ROI
😊 Thank you. I know there are medical advantage plans that cover hearing. Do you have more information about those types of plans? Thank you so much.
Almost all have something. Varies by plan and plans vary by where you live. My email is erik@theretirementnerds.com if you'd like us to help.
Great summary ☺☺. I chose a MA plan initially to save money in my HSA for later in life. Getting a buy back so reduces my Part B premium and paying all premiums out of pocket letting the HSA grow tax free. Now trying to figure out when might be the best time to convert to a Gap and Part D plan to cap MOOP. I think the government is going to eventually do a hybrid that everyone has to convert to and at that time there will be no underwriting. Not worried about underwriting now since I'm in good health, but they are gonna have to go to a common base plan at some point to simplify a horribly complicated system.
It's wild how complicated it is... right?
Thank you for watching! ☺
😊 I checked this video because I heard my grandma talked about choosing her healthcare plan. I didn’t understand what she was discussing about plans with my parents. I think I have health insurance from my parents. Anyway, I understand a bit more about healthcare from watching this video, not 100% though.
Appreciate you spending time with me! ☺️
Great presentation, balanced.
Thank you!
😊Thank you so much for your incredibly informative videos.
Thank you so much for watching and your nice comments! ☺
Improved charting from last year
Thank you :) Trying to get better every day :)
Great info and more importantly, HONESTY. Your mom would be so proud of you...I imagine she was proud of you since the day you were born, but more-so in your adult life! Let me offer my condolences on the loss of your "Fishing" buddy and partner. Finally, thank you for helping me as I start my retirement in the next 2 years. I won't be able to complain that I was uninformed. B
Thank you Brian! Appreciate you and your support! 🙏🎣
Flexibility is key advantage of a supplement plan, you can research and choose a doctor, covered anywhere if traveling
Very helpful. You made a stupidly complicated situation comprehensible for "normal" folk like me.
So glad it was helpful! Thank you for taking the time to watch!
I'm still confused. Lol
@@kathysoltys3104 I'm 95% there, haha
Regarding Advantage plans, he is speaking strictly about an HMO ..there are also PPO Advantage plans that allow far less restrictions while also having the financial benefits of an HMO. Overall for many this presentation is helpful.
We touch on PPO as well. That whole section on out of network max out of pocket is referring to PPO options :) Thank you for watching.
Ive enjoyed many of your videos. And thanks to your great research I have already decided the route I'm taking.
Off topic: If I promise not to wear it on the same days as you, where do you get your'e shirts?
I really like the look!
Thank you so much!!
Primo Golf Apparel!
primogolfapparel.com/
They were big online when Phil Mickelson wore their joggers to The Open in Britain.
The owner is a friend of mine :)
There is a discount code: "RetirementNerds" if you find anything you like and want a discount there.
And you can wear them on the same day. Twinning!
Very nice info. 😊 Thank you!
Thank you so much! ☺
This is a very good comparison of plans, but I think they should also focus on out of network costs. My disabled sister in law was diagnosed with cancer. We specifically brought her to a hospital because it was identified as in-network by the Medicare Advantage plan she has. Six months later, we found out that the Advantage plan was no longer in network. She is now responsible for $13,000 annually as the out of network maximum amount. If you are seriously ill, Advantage plans seriously limit where you can be treated.
I take care of a feral cat colony in the city where I used to practice dentistry. I would like to know if the Plan G supplement with the Rx plan supplement would cover a Tier 4 medication ? Thanks
Thank you for watching! 😺
Whether or not it is covered will depend on the drug plan. Supplement plans do not cover prescription drugs. Standalone drug plans may or may not depending on the company and their formulary.
☺ Another excellent video packed full of information. I have a few years to go before I am eligible for Medicare and this channel is helping me understand a lot of information I will need to make the best decision for me and my wife. Thank you!
So glad it is helpful! Thank you for spending time with us! ☺
Thank you your presentations are great. wish you could pick my TN plan for me
Thank you so much for watching! I have partners licensed for TN if you need help. Erik@theretirementnerds.com is my email.
That caveat at the end is very important to many people who will opt for supplement plans because they want the greater freedom to select their doctors, and also not have to wait for, and hope for their insurance companies approving procedures. Also critical, once a person is on an Advantage plan, they can't move in most states to a supplement without going through medical underwriting, so when they're sick it's too late to switch, so they're trapped on Medicare Advantage, which is no laughing matter. 😊I do appreciate the complete view you provide in your videos, even though I detect a subtle push toward MA plans.
Appreciate you taking the time to watch ☺
Zero push to advantage plans. In fact, in the latest video yesterday I share the percentage of clients who go with one or the other. This is a teaser... so check it out and it may surprise you.
It's very hard for the Advantage plan to lose the cost comparisons in the vast majority of cases when put up against a Plan N or Plan G. I try to let everyone know that the conversation is not always about cost though, so other factors definitely come into play.
☺ Hi Erik, as usual, your videos are one of a kind. I really love it when you point out the clickbait videos. There are many terrible Medicare videos on YT that make me furious.
Thank you for your support! Means a lot. ☺
I agree... there is a level of thumbnail design that has to happen. Need to get the click, but there are some serious oversteps in my opinion.
Great video. you mentioned a spreadsheet to download to compare. i'm having a hard time finding it.
Here you go!
theretirementnerds.com/long-term-medicare-costs/
I have Medicare advantage PPO if I had an HMO then I have to go to in network. I can go to any doctor
😊Well, last year 2023 my husband ended up in the hospital with prostate cancer, and then on an emergency basis with a detached retina. With our supplement G plan, there were almost no costs with the exception of our premium costs. My sense is that if you live in a major urban area and can scope out the doctors under an advantage plan, and you’re unlikely to need to ever go out of network, you may be fine. My mom had Kaiser in Southern California until she went on hospice care and passed away. It was seamless for her as she worked for a government agency and had it before she retired, too. We moved to central Texas before we went on Medicare and without a Kaiser-type option here, we decided to pay upfront and stick with a supplement plan. I’m glad we did for 2023! We do have maximum flexibility with doctors and adjunct care like physical therapy, but yes, we are paying more for this. Luckily, we are in a financial position to do so, which isn’t the case for everyone.
Thank you for watching and taking the time to share your experiences! ☺
😊love your videos!!!
Appreciate you so much! ☺
We each had advantage plans for two years after we retired.
The limited choice of providers and waiting for treatment approvals got to be annoying.
Fortunately we were able to switch to to original medicare and a plan G.
More expensive but for us, well worth it. 😆
Location and company make a huge difference for sure. Glad you are happy on your supplement, and thank you for watching and sharing your experience!
Thank you for a very good explanation
Excellent video!!!
Thank you!
Might I also add that a number of larger companies offering Advantage plans now offer ‘national’ networks. Still not the same benefit you might get with a Supplement, but not as limiting as a strictly ‘local’ network (though you have to do the research to figure out the network providers in whatever location you’re traveling to).😊
Great Video 😊
Thank you so much! ☺
😊 About to embark on this journey.
It's an adventure... 😬
Thanks for putting up this video. Great stuff! 😊 You are so right, at looking at what works for each individual and not a one size fits all approach to supplement vs advantage plans.
No the big question is will "Advantage" deny my claim? Please do a video fast. I'm thinking of going through the underwriting and switching back to original after 10yrs of good luck with C. This is the most important video you could do. Fox
Here is a video on advantage denials :)
th-cam.com/video/ewH3TXydopc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=VWh1l3cL4u4qm2qg