As you point out at th-cam.com/video/qtSeHOsvoFM/w-d-xo.html, does this mean that NY residents can switch from Advantage to Traditional and buy any supplemental plan without underwriting during EVERY year's enrollment period? Are there any other restrictions? Thanks for the great video!
@@laurapalmer6850 Just keep in mind that the Medigap premiums in some states (such as NY and FL) are higher than elsewhere. In these states, one of the High Deductible F or G plans might make more sense.
When you push your Medicare Supplement plans, you are as bad as those whom you diss for pushing their Medicare Advantage plans. Kind of a double standard there, isn't it? Supplements = good, Advantage plans = bad. Who made YOU the decider of an individual's health care choices.
Shame on our govt for making senior citizens having to deal complexities at a point in their lives, myself included. The system is complex at a time when people need ease of issues, not insurance companies bombarding with advertising. The insurance lobby owns Congress
Holy shit, Batman. I may have an attention deficit in my old age. Medicare and insurance in general have become more complex than a 2 1/2-hour crime drama on Netflix that I have to watch twice and take a lot of notes and still don't follow completely.
This is a republican option added to get their votes in congress. Your representatives have sold their soles for corporate money. You get screwed. They get rich. Why are old people voting republican? Stupid. I know there is more than this one issue but is there anything really more important that your health?
This all just makes my head spin. I need to figure this out. There's all this info spewing from every angle and from no one I would trust to put my interests first.
I just turned 62 suddenly bombarded with medi b.s. phone calls ive zero clue about this stuff spent whole day i have to study learn strategize all these b.s. plans...im sooo upset..im recovering from concussion and im supposed to have ZERO stress
The main thing about Medicare Advantage, it is a privatized for profit program and if your local Medicare Advantage doesn't include various in-network specialists, you will have to pay out of pocket for care. Medicare Advantage is for profit heatlh care and not patient oriented care, it is for profit care.
We are in our 70s using Medicare Original supplement plan F. Combined we pay $350 a month for F. Wide has chemo every three weeks. On our most recent Medicare F statement, we observed $51,000 for a single injection of one drug only. So far we estimate her breast cancer charges over $600,000. We want readers to know. By the way, those Medicare brokers put you into advantage plans that is best for them. Not you!
We have the same coverage! We pay more for it in California, but are SO glad it’s what we went with. Choice of doctors (including UCSF, Stanford and Mayo Clinic, if needed). Almost never get anything billed to us, it covers us completely. I noticed that Plan F is no longer offered - we are grandfathered in and hope we can keep it forever!
I am older and bogged down in my current day to day business and listening to this video makes me feel like I could lose my life savings if I check the wrong box, at the wrong minute, or the wrong category. The words "Gotcha" and "Tricks" makes me nervous. All I have to say is keep this lady in your favorites.
Again, a tale as old as time, some people will say the “free” advantage plan will save you thousands! And everyone has a friend or family member that loves their Advantage plans, but do you have a crystal ball to say how healthy you will be? Advantage plans are for people that want to take risks. Supplements are for people that want to be prepare even if they are healthy now. Saddest thing to see is someone’s advantage plan deny claims or make you go though hoops to get coverage. Good luck with you maximum out of pocket on the PPO advantage plans.
@mellocello187 true but when you need the coverage plan G will be there for you and you have the pick of the best doctors in the country, not a limited network. Pre authorizations are chronic with med advantage. You have to pay into the system with G but when your turn comes to need it your life is in better hands. You can't wait till you need it then rake up enormous medical bills, no system works that way. By the way, plan 2025 plans to do away with traditional Medicare so it may not be an option much longer. Kiss your doctor goodbye America
I happily worked with the Abt team when I turned 65 last March. Settled on Medicare with supplement plan N. I was VERY healthy, on no meds. 20 days into March, despite having no symptoms, a standard test led to diagnosis if a very aggressive stage 4 cancer. So now I am in chemotherapy and immunotherapy. The lesson here? I am still super happy with my decisions! I am approved to get the most effective treatments, and I pay $20 each month when I go in for infusions. No prob. If I was on an Advantage plan I very likely would be denied some treatments, and I would pay more for what I did get. 😊
@@bobbear4437 She’s more right than you think. While it may not be your personal experience, Advantage has been called out to answer for denial of services for more people requiring expensive treatment than it’s allowed. Advantage makes it’s money managing one’s care. The less allowed or denied, the more money they make. Advantage is NOT in the business of seeing you get the care you need; they’re in the business to make as much profit as possible by denying care and services.
The medicare managed plan is designed to deny coverage and/or make money on both the doctor and the patient. The doctor takes the copay, but thats it and sometimes is penalized for too much care. The scam is that they tell the doctor they can make money on volume. The patient gets scammed by substandard dme, limited medication, and lack of facilities. The mansged care plan gets more than the 80 percent to “administer “ the program.
Wow as an insurance broker for 35 years I applaud you for doing this. After reading some of the comments it is quite clear that most people listening to you just don't get it. Your best advice ,work with a professional broker. Our services are 100% free people
My question is how much are brokers getting paid when they sign someone up in an Advantage plan ? If they are earning a commission, then they have a vested interest in signing someone up, and do they have your best interest at heart? It’s all very confusing.
@@rbnhood39 Thank you for your great question. Compensation will vary depending on the plan and the state. Brokers will also earn a commission signing up someone on a Medicare Supplemental plan. Look, a good broker will do what is the best for their clients. Personally in my 35 years I don't pay attention to how much I am getting. It is all about making sure my client has access to the doctors and care they need. There are "bad" sales people in every profession this is no exception. However, Sorting through this Medicare stuff on your own is like doing surgery on yourself. Please take time to find a good broker and work together to get the best plan for your needs.
I got the hard-sell on the 'Advantage' plans ..... but did not desire an HMO-type plan. Very happy with Traditional Medicare with Supplement. Not restricted by Network or plan manager. Free to see who I want .... where I want.
I have been disabled for long time, would have to check how long , I was totally ignorant. Got a Humana advantage plan. I am now worried that I should have gotten a supplement plan. Is it too late for me now, I turn 65 in October the 8th . I don’t know what I should do or could do at this point. I believe I need a supplement plan , is there any thing I can do now 😢? Help please
@@rubymckee8123 Medicare open enrollment happens from October 15 through December 7 every year, giving you a dedicated time period called the GUARANTEED ISSUE PERIOD to change your Medicare coverage. The fall enrollment period gives you the most flexibility with which changes you can make. During Medicare open enrollment, sometimes called the Medicare annual enrollment, you can change Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D plans, including changing your coverage, switching between plan types and adding prescription drug benefits. If you're unhappy with Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage, you can switch between the two during open enrollment. At any time, you can switch your Medigap plan or add a supplemental Medigap plan to your Original Medicare. If you change your Medigap plan during a guaranteed issue period, the insurance company won’t consider your age or medical condition. Making changes during a guaranteed issue period gives you better protection from high prices, and it gives you more freedom to select the coverage you want.
When I was new to Medicare, I researched everything thoroughly. I called up an agent and went through everything. I wanted to reverify my research about not being able to keep switching plans and he lied saying that I could change my plan every year. (I am not in one of the states where you can do this). He was really pushing me to enroll in the Advantage plan. Beware folks, agents are not unbiased. They get paid to sell you these plans. Thankfully I had made the right choice for me and picked the traditional Medicare where I can go anywhere for my healthcare. Advantage plans are like a HMO’s whereby you cannot go anywhere. IE: can’t go to the Mayo Clinic in some states. Thanks for the video.
I am a recipient of Medicare and I totally agree with agents trying to push you into plans that they make money off of. My Medicare has to coordinate with a state paid coinsurance and a federal program that is specific to one of my major health conditions. I called one of those mailers to see about switching to a different Medicare plan, and the agent had never heard of the program. Had I switched, I would have been ineligible for the program and my coinsurance. The moral of the story is, don't just assume that these "agents" have your best interests at heart. They're trying to make money.
Medicare Advantage plans are just like insurance you get at work. Yes, there are some HMO's, but there are also PPO's as well. which are far less restrictive than HMO's. Many Medicare Advantage plans allow you to see specialists within their network without any prior authorization.
I have used my Medicare Advantage plan at many University teaching hospitals in the area my plan covers. I haven't found anyplace yet that will not accept my Medicare Advantage Plan. And if you have United Health Care and live within an area where there is a Mayo Clinic, they will accept it. Please make sure you completely understand MA plans before you speak. Obviously, if a Mayo Clinic is not in your area or network, MA is not going to allow you to fly halfway across the country to get to one. That defeats the whole purpose of the Medicare Advantage Program, which is to keep costs down.
Outstanding video. I originally signed up for traditional medicare but also for a very inexpensive supplement that only covered 50% of the 20% that medicare did not cover. I was okay with that, because I was/am very healthy. This year, I decided I wanted better coverage, and found a good price on a supplement that provided much better coverage for the 20%. What I didn’t know, was that I had to be approved by underwriting because I was going to a supplement with better coverage than what I originally enrolled in. I had NO idea that I had to pass underwriting to go to a better plan. I thought I could switch supplement plans to whatever I wanted, once per year. NOT SO! Luckily, I am still healthy. But I am so glad I now have the better supplement, and luckily at a good rate.
@@dogpatch8266 As early as the 1870s, politicians and newspapers began to refer to the Republican Party as both the “grand old party” and the “gallant old party” to emphasize its role in preserving the Union during the Civil War.
*To be clear...* You MUST enroll on a TUESDAY, UNLESS it's on a LEAP YEAR, then it must be on the second Wednesday of the month if you own a primary color car -- all owners of non-primary colored colors MUST enroll on the third Sunday of the month ESPECIALLY if you have a ginger cat. If said ginger cat is sick on that day, then you are eligible for Medicare part 24.b where you will be given FREE dental service -- EVERYTHING is FREE, except most things to do with teeth. If you still have teeth and desire Medicare part 24.b, make sure that you are NOT enrolled in Massachusetts (or if it is a holiday, any state beginning with the letter M), because most people do not realize that realizing things can cost you more than enough money to get all that is almost coming to you. And the mostest biggest "gotcha" is today which is the day that you are reading this unless you still have that ginger cat, in which case it is far too late unless you are reading this last week. This "gotcha" INCLUDES all you can eat FREE buffets from 3:32am to 3:34am in most dine-in restaurants, UNLESS you have money or must pay with a credit card. It is important to remember that wet paint can be substituted for not-so-wet paint, if you know what kind of hat to wear to the parking lot if it is storming outside and no one is watching. Failure to notice this will mean immediate forfeiture of all the things that you found handy about the house or two days notice of which is friendly again for the sake of all seniors in the need of special Tuesdays "progressive certification" for a while, or not, which ever comes first.
Social security benefits for seniors are an essential safety net for many, but it's also crucial to plan ahead and invest wisely for your retirement. Diversifying your investments across can help build wealth over time. It's never too early to start saving and investing for a comfortable retirement. I’m 63 and my husband 65 we are both retired with over $3 million in net worth and no debts. Currently living smart and frugal with our money. Saving and investing lifestyle made it possible for us this early even till now we earn monthly through passive income.
Alright phyllis, speaking in general terms, investing requires a good amount of knowledge. That's why it's essential to have a solid support system like a financial counselor, especially when picking out assets. I've been working with Regina Louise Collaro, who is an investment advisor at a registered wealth management company. I can't recommend her enough; my financial journey has been fantastic thanks to her. She's quite well-known for her services, and she helped me achieve financial stability through investments. Now, I benefit from her passive income strategies every month. So, I'd strongly suggest finding a reliable investment advisor for yourself
Regina Louise Collaro is based in the United States and can work with anybody wherever they stay. If you would like more information about her, you can conduct a search online.
personally, I'm blessed and realizing I'm not the only one working with Regina Louise Collaro. I will consider myself lucky. I've been able to feed and make a living through her advice and great work. For such a person as Regina, I owe her gratitude, support and endless prayers as it is not easy to gain access to such a competent and reliable adviser. Who isn't just wise but has all it takes to handle an investment and is good at what she does..
You are good. I had a Medicare advantage plan and after 9 months wanted to switch to original med. and get a supplement. I was told by 3 agents that I would have to go through underwriting. THEN, I found an agent who told me about the trial period which I was eligible for. You are good. You are honest.
First choice of insurance you do not have to underwrite. This is another reason to not get an advantage plan. Go to traditional medicare through the government directly. Then if you get kicked out of your advantage plan because you are costing them too much money you don't have to worry about underwriting because government medicare will not kick you out. Stay with your original plan. Get straight government medicare A, get a quality medigap provider B and medicine provider D. Ask a medical provider what they would do before you make a choice. Asking an insurance provider is not your best advice. It is like trying to get dental insurance on the internet. Ask a dentist what they would get. They will tell you who pays the best. That is what you want. I used to work for a lab company and learned insurance providers that were downright worthless.(take your premiums and give you very little in return)
I got an insurance advantage medicare plan.... a broker helped me chose it,... it DID NOT COVER MY AREA... I'm disabled I don't travel out of town... I had no usable insurance that year. REGULAR MEDICARE IS FANTASTIC!!!!
Yes, I had to field some of these calls too. They call to see if we participate with this Medicare Advantage plan that advertises constantly on TV during the enrollment time. I tell them that plan is not popular here and they are restricted to network providers only. They now know they have a useless plan. I tell them to switch to a local Medicare Advantage plan that most providers participate, if they can.
This lady is clearly worthy of our business and i just hope other people can see this as much as I have been able to. Not everyone out there is a scam artist but there certainly are plenty of these types. I am glad to see this lady is so honest and informative. I predict she will do most excellent in her endevors!! I will be calling them asap.
I have Medicare advantage with Connecticare and I’m very happy with it. I do pay 23$ a month for dental which I think is a great price. Compared to the high deductible plan I had thru work before I was 65, I’m thrilled with my insurance. There’s a one a year hospital copay of around 400$ if you go in hospital. So cheap. I don’t know why people don’t like advantage. I love it.
Another reason we need universal HC. It is INSANE that people must navigate this next to impossible maze just when they are nearing one of the most vulnerable seasons of life. Medicare Advantage is not that much of an advantage. You get into an HMO and they deny so many things due to cost. They literally said to us, “Well, your granddad has lived a good, long life. So for seniors past a certain age, you’ll need to appeal for cancer treatment. We’d like to put him on Hospice.” Also, they don’t work with private retirement organizations that track and dispense medications for your loved one or provide other types of care (like physical therapy) on-site. Mobility is a lot for some elderly folks. So having a pharmacy (and dispensary) service on-site is a godsend. Ditto with PT. Fortunately, we were able to switch Grandma because Granddad also had Tricare.
I work for a hospital doing pre authorizations. So many people get the cheapest plan. They don’t realize that those plans don’t cover everything or they have a huge deductible. It is so confusing for the average person and many the brokers signing people up with will say anything to get sale.
Another important aspect of traditional Medicare plans vs Medicare Advantage plans is, if Medicare denies a lab charge due to improper coding for the reasons (symptoms or diagnosis) for testing, traditional Medicare CAN'T bill the patient for denied charges on lab tests, Medicare Advantage, can and will, bill the patient. Most doctors don't understand theses rules and limitations of Medicare and often order testing that Medicare won't pay for at all, or will only cover a test a limited number of times in a year. I used to work with lab denials in a couple of facilities I had worked at, and it was common for very angry Medicare Advantage patients to come in with their bills and demand that I "fix" it. They don't understand why their doctor would order tests that aren't covered by Medicare. Another interesting thing concerning traditional Medicare plans that have a supplemental insurance plan is that the supplemental plan will not cover Medicare denied testing. But in this instance, the patient won't be billed but the facility will be responsible for denied charges. I retired 4 years ago and these were the rules THEN, from my experience processing denials. I am unaware of any changes that may have occurred since. I did not get a Medicare Advantage plan specifically for these reasons and have traditional Medicare with a supplemental. My advise for retirees living on a fixed income with little savings would be to go with a traditional Medicare and a supplemental. Medicare Advantage would be more suitable for those retirees who are more financially secure with significant savings to pay those additional charges that you will receive.
The person living on a fixed ss income cannot afford the additional charges for a supplement plan, prescription drug plan and a dental plan. Supplement plan is only good if you can pay all the extra charges.
It sounds like these were rules under the Medicare Advantage Plan you worked for. There are many, many plans and I think the competition among them is putting a stop to these practices. You can change MA plans every year, so angering people will make you lose their business. About 50% of retirees have MA plans. If they were really bad, I think we'd be hearing about it all over the news. 60 minutes and other news shows would probably have big stores at this time during annual enrollment.
@@roadrunner40 I agree. My folks were going into debt paying for their supplement, to the tune of $900 to $1000 a month, along with prescription plans and dental. Above that, mom would have to pay out another couple hundred every 3 months, for the last half of the year, for one of her medications because of the cap on the policy she already paid $130 a month for. I am happy that some folks have more than SSI to fall back on, but many don't.
Good advice shared in this video. Don’t go down the Advantage plan path without fully understanding what you are signing up for. Need to think long term when deciding your health care insurance needs post 65.
I've said this before and I'll say it again (until I die): Medicare advantage plan sales people should be required BY LAW to tell prospective customers that it may be difficult or impossible to switch back to a medigap/supplement plan once they enroll in an advantage plan. I am presently enrolled in an advantage plan and have had very good coverage up to now. But down the road, if my cancer gets worse or some other unpredictable disease comes up, I'm terrified by the prospect that some pencil-necked accountant at an insurance company may determine my fate.
If you get Medicare Advantage plan you are in a Private plan. Traditional Medicare is always the best. Let no one. Kid you. Med Advantage put money in Politicians.
I recently turned 65. I have a pre-existing condition. I'm healthy, but was born with a birth defect that I need period 'maintenance' and equipment. I went with part A & B and chose G+ high deductable. The math works that if I use the supplemental G, paying the deductible and the low payment was CHEAPER than the regular G. This works for me. Typically I need expensive equipment/treatments every couple years, the rest of the time I just do annual physicals. BTW .. the company with the G+ said I had to wait 6 months before they would cover a pre-existing condition. For my situation I wouldn't touch the Medicare Advantage plan with a ten foot pole. Reasons: 1) you have to take a doctor in network. What if I need a specialist not in network? Not covered. 2) Every treatment has to be APPROVED. They can say no to a treatment you need. That right there is the reason to stay away from this. Insurance companies doing the Advantage plan are paid a set amount by the government for your care. It's in THEIR best interest not to get you treatment and incur costs.
Thanks for sharing this IMPORTANT information. I turned 65 last year and was pretty well versed after working in medical practices for 25 years, so I resisted the hard sell of MAP. Even when I found a broker I liked, she gently tried to push me by saying it would save me money. If somewhere down the line I can’t afford my supplement, I can always move to a MAP; doesn’t work in the reverse situation. Thanks again, I’ll share your video with friends and family.
It does amaze me how billions are sent out all the time, yet the gov’t claims there’s not enough money for our healthcare we already paid for while we were working. We should all be in the streets with pitchforks demanding we get what we paid for.
What's ironic is that seniors have paid their dues and shouldn't have to contend with the complications. In the meantime, younger people who mostly haven't paid their dues get free care through Medicaid.
The US government spends more money on healthcare for seniors than it does on foreign aid. There's a great quote: "The US government is an insurance company with an army." Peter Fisher Undersecretary of the Treasury 2002 Before Medicare was created by the Democrats under LBJ in the 1960's, only about 1/3 of retirees had any form of medical insurance. No for-profit company wants to have anything to do with insuring the sickest population. The only reason why traditional Medicare supplement programs exist is that Medicare picks up the first 80% of bills. The private companies only have to pay for the 80% of the last 20%. Medicare Advantage only exists because the government pays the insurance companies to cover their policy holders.
For several years, providers always asked me if i had a suppliment. I saw a video for medicare suppliment G. For 4 years, i have never had a copay or any out of pocket expenses at all. Get the supliment G, never pay any fee again. And i have have a lot of surgeries, and out patient procedures.
@InSearchofTruththruJesusChrist nope. It's F that is no longer offered. G is Still available to new enrolees. I know tjis because I turn 65 this year.
I have traditional Medicare, and a medigap plan G. It’s the most expensive, but I only pay my annual deductible. I decided to go this way because I have some health issues, and this eliminates a lot of worries.
I have saved this video for future reference. My wife and I did work with a very knowledgeable "agent" who warned us exactly as you did about the types of plans and all the considerations which must be taken into account for a good plan selection. So far we have been well-served by our selections (Govt. A&B, K + AARP Supp.) due to her guidance in this "minefield" of rules and regs. You are doing a great service to seniors with this video warning them about the pitfalls and penalties that ignorance can slap onto the unwary and ill-advised purchaser.
Good to hear from someone who really understands their product! I am 63 and, God willing, will face this decision soon. I was already suspicious of these advantage plans because of the commercials on TV and unsolicited phone calls. Now I understand the "gotcha". Thank you, Stephanie!
Took me years to learn my health insurance lesson. Medicare supplemental G plan allows me not to waste time with a primary care that has limited knowledge. I choose specialist anytime I want any State anywhere and sometimes out of the country. It does cost you more but it is definitely worth it. Medicare advantage locks you into your neighborhood and you can't get out, and they dictate your doctor referrals😢
Not all medicare advantage plans are like that. I have one, no referrals with my plan as of 2023, more dental coverage. I love it. In a life and death emergency I too can go to the nearest hospital that is in network or out of network, anywhere.
Ur comparison of discussing the cup holder instead of the performance of the vehicle was right on. I have never been more frustrated and stressed than when Aetna took over my health care (or lack of it)
I am 75, been on an advantage plan for 9 years. I have had health issues and am extremely happy with my plan. Just a few of my benefits: Primary care is free, Tier 1 drugs are free, specialist are 30$ copay, 60$ every quarter for OTC drugs, 2000$ per year dental, 10$ per month reduction in Medicare payments. These are just a few of the benefits. I have had total knee replacement, hernia repair, melanoma surgery, and my advantage plan has been outstanding in all cases. Approval for treatment was immediate and I have never been denied a claim. I am covered for emergencies if traveling. Advantage plan has a 5 star rating. My wife is a retired nurse practitioner and we both have advantage plans.
I too am happy with the advantage plan. My first 2 months on reg. Medicare I had to pay more than 200.00 for diff. services and since the 1.5 yrs. I have paid nothing .
I am so glad that I used your company to get medicare. I can't imagine how complicated and how easily someone could be tripped up by all the gotcha's that are in place. thank you!
Medicare DIS advantage plans should be outlawed. Maybe saving up front but if you actually need care you are very, very likely to be denied. As an NP I’ve seen lots and lots of buyers remorse
I've had both now. I'm currently on Original with Blue Shield plan G extra and Wellcare part D. I'm turning 73 soon. I had SCAN Classic Advantage Plan for almost 8 years. Both plans have advantages and disadvantages. Just know your decision at the beginning is extremely important and you must understand the differences in them. Use a good experienced agent who specializes in Medicare. There are many resources to help guide you. Stay sharp and healthy. It's always about the money unfortunately, but good health care is extremely valuable as one ages.
I am so happy after talking to many seniors and reading and re-reading ALOT. And I decided when I went on SS that I got the Medicare A & B, added a part D and a Gap. Saved me so many hassles. 💕 thank you for confirming I did do what was correct for me.
I took care of my mother's finances after my father died. Her medigap was great. When a provider tried to balance bill her (almost all did), I pointed to her medigap. Let them fight it out.
Thank you for presenting this complicated information in a very straightforward manner. I am still five years away from Medicare but it’s important to start learning about the process now.
My 73 yr old disabled husband got frustrated by the increasing premiums of his supplemental insurance, so he thought he would try a Medicare advantage plan instead. I was very nervous about his decision because he has had numerous surgeries and would never pass underwriting w any company 🤦♀️. I shared a few very informative Utube videos w him and showed him that he had given way too much power to the company rather than his Dr. Fortunately he is within the 1 yr trial period so he decided to get out asap.Whew!!! We’re both relieved 🙂 1:35
I will tell you my wife on Medicare and recently had emergency surgery. The bill was very high but I was pleasantly surprised Medicare paid all but an amount that I consider fair. Everyone shoots down Medicare but I can tell its better than alot of employer health insurance.
The one thing that would help seniors is if Advantage plans were not called Medicare Advantage Plans. Seniors hear the name and assume they have the same rules as Medicare. They are just optional Insurance Companies who can and will deny certain things deemed unneeded. A panel of non doctors look at doctor suggested treatments and decide if it is needed. Well guess what there whole job is to make money and they can choose what is not deemed necessary even though your doctor says it is.
I'm definitely medical insurance challenged. I better figure this stuff out. I'm 71 and in good health thank God. I'll try and educate myself with your videos.
I did the trial right #1. I found out about it by doing my own research. I read the Medicare book and decided to leave my advantage plan for a supplement and original Medicare.
I've had a great Medicare Advantage plan for 15 years in the suburbs where there is competition and plenty of providers, but friends further out in the country do not have very good options.
I work in a sector of healthcare that requires pre-authorization for patient stays. We call Medicare Advantage plans Medicare Disadvantage plans. Its tough to get those patients into our unit. Many end up in a nursing home with all the attached “blessings.”
I ended up going with a Humana HMO plan and it has been pretty good. A year and a half ago I ended up in the hospital for 2 weeks and had 2 surgeries, initial bill was 98k I had to pay 2% of that. A few months later I had another surgery (follow up to the previous ones) and spent 4 days in the hospital and only had a $350 copay for it (no idea what the cost was on that one). Dental is not great but few plans cover much.
I talked with a very nice lady who helped me through all the quirks, etc. if Medicare and didn’t cost me anything! I suggest people find such a person!
I truly wish there were public statistics on complaints around the Advantage referral process for specific Advantage plans in any given state, THAT is the primary decision factor which seems to be what is truly unknown for people. Or at least state rankings around complaints for such.
Thanks again for your insightful and informative vids: Bc I watched, I protected myself from someone hustling me into a well-known Advantage plan: The person didn't know anything other than maybe her need to make sales. Thanks again.
When I first signed up for Medicare, I thought that the Part B premium was $164.90 per month and I set up a checking account to automatically pay the premium. What I didn't know, and what Medicare did not tell me, was that the first $742.50. Fortunately, there was enough money in the checking account to cover the first premium. I feel sorry for people who are not prepared for that.
@@joans5619the amount is because Medicare requires paying for three months at a time. I'm paying it, too and the plan N supplement instead of the advantage plans. I don't want to get stuck with small numbers of doctors and the insurance company in charge of my care. Don't forget the advantage plans also sock it to ya with huge deductibles.
Just to be clear, if you get Social Security benefits, each month's premium will be subtracted from monthly benefit. If you self-pay (not collecting SS), you will get quarterly bills for 3 months of premiums. Social Security online docs do mention the first bill may be higher to collect for prior months. There's more to the story here as the amount due is not a multiple of $164.90 in this instance.
I found out somehow (can't remember the details), that I could opt out because I get all my health care at the VA. It's a little complicated, but I was given specific instructions to follow before the end of the month in order to not have that first payment ($134.00 I think it was) taken out of my SS check, which I did follow, and they still took it out! I googled and found out that is actually like a gov't scam kind of thing or something that they do and get away with a lot. If anyone cares to look into this to see what I'm talking about, feel free. I'm just glad I did end up opting out because I get pretty good care at the VA, and I only pay a small co-payment for everything, and I get to keep that $134.00 every month.
No where does Medicare tell you they bill that quarterly. There is no option to pay monthly. Why not? A lot of other companies give options to pay quarterly OR monthly. I am glad I didn't set up auto pay.
if you are rural go with a gap plan. if you get sent to a specialist in the city you may not be covered but with gap you should be. city dwellers are better fitted for advantage plans as there are more providers under one umbrella
When a commercial for Medicare Pt. C came on the TV and the actor said, "I enrolled to get everything I'm entitled to," my dad used to say, "That's what I'm afraid of."
Damn! I'm turning 65 this year. I already have good medical coverage for my wife and I that I've paid a lot for over an eternity. I'm getting blind calls and offers in the mail. Until I understand medicare, I'm blowing off everything. This was the first video on the subject I've viewed. Holy shit could it be made anymore confusing? I've got a lot to learn I see.
We are in the same boat with hubby turning 65 this year. I am watching tons of videos and plan on attending a free seminar in our area. Might be something to look into for your area, as well.
It's not really that confusing...it's just new to you and different..take some time and do a deep dive into how it works..you'll feel better and make wiser decisions.
Retired a couple years ago and went with the Medicare Advantage plan, big mistake if I needed a specialty doc like ent, gastroenterologist. They tell me the doctor is no longer accepting new patients but the other specialty doc’s in the advantage plan suck. I’m going on regular Medicare after this year. Btw, I called Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale and they only take regular Medicare, they will not accept anyone on an a Advantage plan….. Wow!!
@@coleramus561 that’s good to know, so essentially they baffle the consumer with bs and then after a couple years in the advantage plan it’s too late to change and now I’m stuck with it. And on top of that because of my retirement income, my premiums go up and my SSI check goes down. 👇
@@coleramus561 Just an update, I did call the main Medicare number on the back of the card and asked her that question and she did say I can transfer back to straight Medicare and leave the advantage plan if I choose during the normal enrollment period….for what that worth.
I am 65 and going on Medicare and Social Security for the first time. It's nice to have knowledgeable people like this to help to try and steer us in the right direction. I do have an insurance broker to help me make my decisions. That being said, this is the most confusing and expensive crap I have ever experienced. I feel like the government is ripping me off no matter what direction I take and health care is just not affordable. As soon as I get sick I will lose everything is how I feel. I know I'm not alone in these thoughts.
I had one back surgery and two hip replacements. I didn't pay anything out of pocket with my traditional Medicare and supplemental policy. Well worth the cost of the policy! Also, no hassle to see a specialist.
True 100%. Original Medicare + Supplement is the best health care insurance you can get. No restrictions, no prior approvals. See any specialist anywhere in the country.
@@nejdro1 REALLY, you are paying no premium for your Medicare advantage health insurance ! This is a outrageous lie! What insurance company would pay for your knee replacement without you paying a premium!
Like the U S tax code and an average telephone bill, these “plans”, and bills with so many rules, regulations and “if you do this, you need to or can’t do this” scenarios, are intentionally convoluted and confusing to the average person, in the hopes you will just grow frustrated and give up searching for the best price, plan , or tax advantage, ultimately costing folks way more than they should. All the result of rules and inclusions inserted for and by special interests, by a bloated, corrupt and inefficient government bureaucracy.
Wow! I'm so happy your channel showed up in my feed. I'll be eligible for Medicare in less than 2 years, and I already know that I'm going with traditional Medicare. I work in the mental health field, and I ONLY accept traditional Medicare. Here in Colorado, we (healthcare providers) refer to the replacement plans as "Medicare DISadvantage." I feel bad for the folks who were lured in by "special cup holder" you mentioned. These plans are awful, and are absolutely NOT an advantage to the people who have them.
Hi, Stephanie ! While I considered myself to be fairly well informed when I became eligible in September of last year, I'm so glad I utilized your service ! There are so many rules and regulations that it's nearly impossible to know everything ! Your service gave me the extra level of support in providing the comfort level I was looking for. While I felt confident that I knew enough to avoid a bad decision, it's always good to know that I can reach out to you with any questions or concerns . Thank you !
I have a broker/ friend who helps me every year. Now I just call & ask her to check around & I still go with my traditional & a supplement. I think MC Advantage may be ok for those living in bigger cities but in small towns you don’t have Specialty Dr & have to travel Hours to get one. We have a Beautiful hospital but can’t seem to keep any good Drs here in our small rural desert town. 👵🏻👩🌾❣️
Love, love, love your information. Here are some (approx.) dollar amounts: Medicare Part A = free, Medicare part B = $160, Medicare part D (prescription) = $12, Medicare's Medigap part G = $170. These four items add up to (approx.) $342/mo. per each person that needs insurance. The average Social Security monthly check, per person is $2,485 and when people see that $342/mo. insurance premium they panic and pass up the great opportunity that is in front of them. The sharks move in and call themselves Advantage Plans. The only advantage to for the Sharks and they have the right to DENY your doctor's recommendations for coverage, until you eventually die from the ailment, which the doctor has said was there all along. The doctor isn't going to treat you, if the Advantage Plan denies your problem exists, but your teeth will be clean.
@@MikeAnn193 Advantage Plans are okay if you only need dental, vision, and pills, but once your doctor tries to keep you well or cure your sickness you'll have to file a law suit against the Advantage provider and they'll wait you out, until you die.
@@angelawhite4795 I use rounded off numbers for quick math. The sad part is that half of the people getting Social Security receive less than the $2,485/mo. average and $342/mo. (for insurance) is too much of their budget. If your career has been in the food service industry or hospitality industry, your monthly benefit will be way, way less than the Social Security average. If you've been a minimum wage earner your entire life, your benefit will be even less. These are the poor people, which Advantage Plans prey upon.
RN here- NEVER take an advantage plan. I am forever baffled by people working their whole lives and finally getting Medicare only to turn around and give their benefits to an insurance company! Advantage plans are a SCAM.
It is but some places will not accept straight Medicare, such as Bend Oregon. It’s criminal that my mom has to pay for advantage plan and out of pocket has been horrid. Biggest scam ever on retirees
Great help for new Medicare applicants. My brother is ready to retire and enroll in something. I have Medigap and love it. Iam trying to educate him so he is not stuck with the Advantage Plan.
This is such a great video, chucky jam full of super inportant information. The inportant thing to remember is Nothing is free 😮 Insurance companies want your money or premium but .... They not want to pay for the care you need Its all shell game.
They will either get their money up front (Supplement Plan), or as you go (Advantage Plan). You will pay. These companies get around $10,000 to run your benefits, and its just a fight for them to see how much of the $10K they can keep.
As a Medicare CSR, I must say thank you for putting this out there. I explain this pitfall on almost every call, and have long thought there should be a TH-cam channel that explains the complicated maze of American healthcare. It's great to see an agent be so forthcoming. Kudos to you ma'am.
Traditional Medicare and Plan G . Plus a drug plan. See any Doctor or go to any Hospital no network . Pay the 240 part B deductible and all other charges that are Medicare Approved are paid.
@@JDStaffylover I'm being facetious. Their rules are so convoluted and nonsensical that they might as well add such stipulations. I still can't believe anyone takes any of this seriously. It ALL needs to go NOW.
I have part A but I'm not taking part B I'm not paying $165. per month, for something I only use like once every 5 years or so. If you pay cash there is about a 40% discount. If your on Medicare then the bill is inflated 40% and your stuck paying 20% of that bigger amount. Have you ever been hounded by sales people in your life and they were trying to do you a favor.
I screwed up and got on an Advantage Plan! They turned down everything, even a chest X-Ray. I was very lucky at 70 and got underwritten and OK’d for a supplement plan. Plan G. It is expensive, but worth every penny. Have to pay dental, prescription, hearing. So that’s extra. Around $200.00 a month total! Boy, was I lucky to get on!!!!
$200 for all of that ?? Wow that is very cheap compared to most others. Some people pay over $200 just for their supplement plan. I’m just turning 65 and my total will be around $320/month
I’m 78 and my husband is 86. We both have been on regular Medicare A and B since turning 65. We also have AFLAC cancer policies. For years We also joined a Christian share care group long before Medicare, but decided to keep it instead of a Gap plan. They covered some things that Medicare didn’t. Eventually as we needed more medical care, I got tired of all the paperwork for the Christian group, so was advised to buy the G plan. It is more expensive but no hassle for me. But we had to undergo underwriting and I was turned down by AARP so we are both with Blue Shield of CA. Our regular Medicare costs around $150 a month each, I think, and the G Plan costs around $650 now but goes up every year. I love not having to do all the paperwork, and can go to any doctor and get almost any procedure I need, however between the two of us we are paying nearly $1000 a month. My husband, however, just finished his third issue with cancer. If it were true that an advantage plan pays 100% as she says, there would be no copays for anything.
I am still a bit young for medicare.... BUT.... as a nurse get asked questions all the time and your video is fantastic for making all the "garbage" clear! Great job!
I had a friend tell me about you and the insightful videos you put out to help seniors. When I get closer to that decision age I will seek out your help. Thanks for being here on TH-cam.
I manage a mental health practice with a provider who specializes in seniors so most of her client base is Medicare. I can’t tell you how many of our clients have accidentally changed their Medicare coverage to Advantage plans without even knowing it had happened and as soon as that change is made we’re no longer in their network. I don’t know exactly how it happens but if you’re already on Medicare be *very* aware of what you’re signing up for during open enrollment periods. Don’t sign anything that says Advantage or references other insurance companies unless you actually *want* to be switched to them managing your plan.
These Medicare "advantage" plans have television ads that emphasis the dental and vision coverage and do not explain that you will have a small group of physicians and higher co-payments. If you travel, any medical service will be "out of network" and very expensive. The TV ads are constant and deceptive.
@@swindewhile traveling, if you’re on Advantage, you can only use urgent care in order for your insurance to pay for it. If urgent care refers you to a doctor, Advantage will pay. Personal experience.
I have the Advantage plan for a couple of years before I turned 65. I looked into getting medigap but the prices are so much higher than advantage plus I had to add in dental and vision. The advantage plan was just like the insurance I had when I worked.
So you are getting more for less money? LOL. Impossible. These are private insurers their objective is to make money for themselves. You are just a facilitator or patron. They will kick you out if you start costing them too much.
@@malanalan1 And you know that how? You can see the future? It's been great for years!! I don't want some government-run crap. They handled Social Insecurity so well, right??
@@malanalan1 most probably works for an advantage company they are everywhere and start stalking you as soon as you turn 62 yrs or even before these companies are scammers and I’m always skeptical when I see someone praising them
@@jimroscovius I wouldn't have anything else. I still yet have to get a bill from my Medicare Advantage Plan. They have covered everything I have needed. Make sure doctors and hospitals use the correct coding for the procedures you are getting done, and Medicare Advantage will pay every time, without any questions.
Everybody listening to this Stephanie is fabulous saved me from a lot of headache a very honest broker well informed great to work with I am so happy that I found her when I turned 65 and then retired from nursing and needed a supplemental plan and part B thank God
This all boggles my mind! But, I followed most of what you said. I turn 65 in 8 months and am definitely not looking forward to having to deal with all this! My older brother got through all this for himself last year. He was telling me what the difference was between Advantage plans and Supplemental plans. I'm not looking forward to having to sift through all this Medicare information to make my choices. Ugh!!!
I opted for an Advantage HMO because I could not find a doctor in my area who was accepting new Medicare patients. And my own doctor refused to see me for the same reason. I guess Medicare doesn't pay doctors enough to make up for the paperwork burden?
My wife and I paid for supplements for two years until I retired at 67. Then we switched to an advantage plan. We were paying over $800 a month and have been paying $0 for the past three years. That's $28,000. All of the hospitals in our area accept our carrier. We pay $20 to see a GP and $35 to see a specialist. I just had surgery with follow-up for $35. We get all kinds of screenings and diagnostics at no charge. I don't understand why people think it is a scam.
I agree. We had original Medicare with a supplement plan. We were paying for Part B, about $165 each. Due to it coming out of Social Security some forget to add that amount into their monthly total. Next, you have to keep $400 each aside. That is out of pocket before the supplemental plan will pay your 20%. Next, the cost of the supplemental plan. We paid $700 a month, $350 each. I added up our yearly cost and it as way more than what we pay for our Advantage Plan. We only go to the doctor for our yearly physical. Thankfully, we aren’t sick very often. We take supplements, which we use or OTC card to pay, We exercise or walk and try to eat healthy. I realize there are some who need to go to the doctor for serious medical issues and the original Medicare with a supplemental would be of benefit for them. You need to get what is best for you.
Great video.. My transition to Medicare was a nightmare.. We spent almost 3 months with no health insurance.. my employment insurance cancelled us because I had only signed up for part A and not part B. (would have been nice if we were told beforehand) Now I pay for 2 health insurances and get less for our money...
I live in Pa and have a highmark bc bs med adv plan.I had a triple bypass and paid nothing.I pay nothing for pcp and specialists visits. Zero for lab work.zero for tier 1 And tier 2 drugs.very low copays for mri, outpatient surgery and so on.I am in a hmo and I guess the trade off is lower costs for staying in network.also I have a zero premium. W.Pa is pretty good for medicare Advantage Plans.
I will be going on medicare in 3 months and I also live in western Pa, can you tell me / post the plan name that you have, I am looking at the Highmark BcBs Is it the COMMUNITY BLUE MEDICARE HMO SIGNATURE plan ???
i became my mother's caregiver/power of attorney after she got dementia. i chose a fantastic supplement for her that lasted a year or 2. unbeknownst to me, on down the road the company dropped the supplement plan and only had an advantage. i didn't realize this until our 1st office visit in the new year, and she had huge amounts to pay instead of just the deductible she would have had otherwise. unfortunately, i was unable to do anythibg about it until the next year. this was years ago, and i'm sure lots of stuff's changed; however, even now that i'm on medicare myself (and have a huge number of health problems/doctors, i'll never go baxk to an advantage plan.
Good video. Everyone should be very aware of the facts that you mentioned about not being able to get a supplement plan when trying to return to regular Medicare. My own advice, after watching this video and many more about Medicare, personal experience, and reading a lot of articles about Medicare, would be that almost everyone who can afford a supplement plan should go that route. They can always change to Medicare Advantage later if they choose to. As to the perks-ask how much their dental plan would pay for implants. Even my work plan would only pay about 10%.
Then the sickening gov should give the money grabbers $800 a month and make medicare premium FREE!! Its disgusting. I paid nothing for Insurance when I was under 65, now simply cuz of my age I'm forced into this joke of medicrap!! I'm in good health. This should be a factor in what one pays just like it was before. I didnt magically become some sickly decrepid person when the calendar went from me being 64 to 65! Medicare is a rip off we are forced into, having no alternative makes it a monopoly!!
I have a Medicare advantage plan. I would really like the medigap but being poor I can’t afford it. I do get the free gym membership. The gym is close to my house, it gives me something to do without spending money and the $250 a month tuition scholarship for the grandkids is kind of my motivation to show up at the gym. Plus in the summer I can go to the gym at the hottest part of the day and turn off my home air conditioning. I trust my health insurance broker. I’m hoping he’s put me on the right path. I’m still broke but with the no premium payment at least I can afford other luxuries, like food.
@@door2416 maybe.But right now I can’t afford the premium. I also have some other kind of plan, similar to Aflac, or whatever that commercial with the duck is, which pays me something towards catastrophic illness.
Why when one retire's does the SSA, automatically a few month's after receiving your first retirement check. Start with drawing fund's from it and applying it to one's medicare plan. Which one will get an offical letter after the money is all ready been taken out and will continue. Informing the person that should they don't want the coverage. To leave the attached medical ID card on, put an "X" not a check mark (I found out the hard way between an "X" and a check mark). Sign it, insert it into the included envelope and mail it back. And if your lucky, in three to four month's time. The original fee as well as those additional month's it took to stop it. Will be replaced in full. I say lucky because, I not putting an "X" and simply putting a check mark, caused my opting out to be mooted. Having to do it agian, but putting an "X" where it was supposed to be. Caused my opting out and returning of any and all the fee's in the time it took, which was 6 month's. Recently, well acutally 8 month's ago, my retired wife, had the first fee taken out, received a letter a month later. Informing her she had to respond to the opting out process with in ten day's of it happening. But in as much as it took a month to get the letter envoling the opt our process. It's impossible to do it with in the ten day's. She having my experience, put the "X" where it's supposed to be. Signed it, inserted it into the additional pre stamped and address include envelope. With the ID attached as mandated. It's now been 9 month's, and after two phone call's which take's an average of some 90 minute's which 60 of which is being on hold. Simply told, yes, we received your opt out, it was scanned into the system. I'll send an notice to expedite it. Call back in a month. Have a nice day, good bye. Why when one has to file the various paper's prior to receiving their SS Retirement check's. Isn't the option of opting out at that point in time done?
What other Medicare "tricks" have you experienced? Let me know below!
As you point out at th-cam.com/video/qtSeHOsvoFM/w-d-xo.html, does this mean that NY residents can switch from Advantage to Traditional and buy any supplemental plan without underwriting during EVERY year's enrollment period? Are there any other restrictions? Thanks for the great video!
Having TRICARE the advantage plan works fine.
@@laurapalmer6850 Just keep in mind that the Medigap premiums in some states (such as NY and FL) are higher than elsewhere. In these states, one of the High Deductible F or G plans might make more sense.
When you push your Medicare Supplement plans, you are as bad as those whom you diss for pushing their Medicare Advantage plans. Kind of a double standard there, isn't it? Supplements = good, Advantage plans = bad. Who made YOU the decider of an individual's health care choices.
@@purplenights1 I don’t “push” either option. I educate, and am licensed to sell both.
Shame on our govt for making senior citizens having to deal complexities at a point in their lives, myself included. The system is complex at a time when people need ease of issues, not insurance companies bombarding with advertising. The insurance lobby owns Congress
Holy shit, Batman. I may have an attention deficit in my old age. Medicare and insurance in general have become more complex than a 2 1/2-hour crime drama on Netflix that I have to watch twice and take a lot of notes and still don't follow completely.
This is a republican option added to get their votes in congress. Your representatives have sold their soles for corporate money. You get screwed. They get rich. Why are old people voting republican? Stupid. I know there is more than this one issue but is there anything really more important that your health?
This all just makes my head spin. I need to figure this out. There's all this info spewing from every angle and from no one I would trust to put my interests first.
@@GeorgeMinton-jb8ky So, Publicans drove Obamacare?
"Who run Bartertown?"
I just turned 62 suddenly bombarded with medi b.s. phone calls ive zero clue about this stuff spent whole day i have to study learn strategize all these b.s. plans...im sooo upset..im recovering from concussion and im supposed to have ZERO stress
The main thing about Medicare Advantage, it is a privatized for profit program and if your local Medicare Advantage doesn't include various in-network specialists, you will have to pay out of pocket for care.
Medicare Advantage is for profit heatlh care and not patient oriented care, it is for profit care.
We are in our 70s using Medicare Original supplement plan F. Combined we pay $350 a month for F. Wide has chemo every three weeks. On our most recent Medicare F statement, we observed $51,000 for a single injection of one drug only. So far we estimate her breast cancer charges over $600,000. We want readers to know. By the way, those Medicare brokers put you into advantage plans that is best for them. Not you!
Thank you for sharing this!
We have the same coverage! We pay more for it in California, but are SO glad it’s what we went with. Choice of doctors (including UCSF, Stanford and Mayo Clinic, if needed). Almost never get anything billed to us, it covers us completely. I noticed that Plan F is no longer offered - we are grandfathered in and hope we can keep it forever!
I am older and bogged down in my current day to day business and listening to this video makes me feel like I could lose my life savings if I check the wrong box, at the wrong minute, or the wrong category. The words "Gotcha" and "Tricks" makes me nervous. All I have to say is keep this lady in your favorites.
Again, a tale as old as time, some people will say the “free” advantage plan will save you thousands! And everyone has a friend or family member that loves their Advantage plans, but do you have a crystal ball to say how healthy you will be? Advantage plans are for people that want to take risks. Supplements are for people that want to be prepare even if they are healthy now. Saddest thing to see is someone’s advantage plan deny claims or make you go though hoops to get coverage. Good luck with you maximum out of pocket on the PPO advantage plans.
@mellocello187 true but when you need the coverage plan G will be there for you and you have the pick of the best doctors in the country, not a limited network. Pre authorizations are chronic with med advantage. You have to pay into the system with G but when your turn comes to need it your life is in better hands. You can't wait till you need it then rake up enormous medical bills, no system works that way. By the way, plan 2025 plans to do away with traditional Medicare so it may not be an option much longer. Kiss your doctor goodbye America
I happily worked with the Abt team when I turned 65 last March. Settled on Medicare with supplement plan N. I was VERY healthy, on no meds. 20 days into March, despite having no symptoms, a standard test led to diagnosis if a very aggressive stage 4 cancer. So now I am in chemotherapy and immunotherapy. The lesson here? I am still super happy with my decisions! I am approved to get the most effective treatments, and I pay $20 each month when I go in for infusions. No prob. If I was on an Advantage plan I very likely would be denied some treatments, and I would pay more for what I did get. 😊
uh no your wouldn't, anyone told you that is lying!
@@bobbear4437 She’s more right than you think. While it may not be your personal experience, Advantage has been called out to answer for denial of services for more people requiring expensive treatment than it’s allowed. Advantage makes it’s money managing one’s care. The less allowed or denied, the more money they make. Advantage is NOT in the business of seeing you get the care you need; they’re in the business to make as much profit as possible by denying care and services.
The medicare managed plan is designed to deny coverage and/or make money on both the doctor and the patient. The doctor takes the copay, but thats it and sometimes is penalized for too much care. The scam is that they tell the doctor they can make money on volume. The patient gets scammed by substandard dme, limited medication, and lack of facilities. The mansged care plan gets more than the 80 percent to “administer “ the program.
Wow as an insurance broker for 35 years I applaud you for doing this. After reading some of the comments it is quite clear that most people listening to you just don't get it. Your best advice ,work with a professional broker. Our services are 100% free people
My question is how much are brokers getting paid when they sign someone up in an Advantage plan ? If they are earning a commission, then they have a vested interest in signing someone up, and do they have your best interest at heart? It’s all very confusing.
@@rbnhood39 Thank you for your great question. Compensation will vary depending on the plan and the state. Brokers will also earn a commission signing up someone on a Medicare Supplemental plan. Look, a good broker will do what is the best for their clients. Personally in my 35 years I don't pay attention to how much I am getting. It is all about making sure my client has access to the doctors and care they need. There are "bad" sales people in every profession this is no exception. However, Sorting through this Medicare stuff on your own is like doing surgery on yourself. Please take time to find a good broker and work together to get the best plan for your needs.
I got the hard-sell on the 'Advantage' plans ..... but did not desire an HMO-type plan. Very happy with Traditional Medicare with Supplement. Not restricted by Network or plan manager. Free to see who I want .... where I want.
I have been disabled for long time, would have to check how long , I was totally ignorant. Got a Humana advantage plan. I am now worried that I should have gotten a supplement plan. Is it too late for me now, I turn 65 in October the 8th . I don’t know what I should do or could do at this point. I believe I need a supplement plan , is there any thing I can do now 😢? Help please
@@rubymckee8123 Medicare open enrollment happens from October 15 through December 7 every year, giving you a dedicated time period called the GUARANTEED ISSUE PERIOD to change your Medicare coverage. The fall enrollment period gives you the most flexibility with which changes you can make. During Medicare open enrollment, sometimes called the Medicare annual enrollment, you can change Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D plans, including changing your coverage, switching between plan types and adding prescription drug benefits. If you're unhappy with Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage, you can switch between the two during open enrollment.
At any time, you can switch your Medigap plan or add a supplemental Medigap plan to your Original Medicare. If you change your Medigap plan during a guaranteed issue period, the insurance company won’t consider your age or medical condition. Making changes during a guaranteed issue period gives you better protection from high prices, and it gives you more freedom to select the coverage you want.
When I was new to Medicare, I researched everything thoroughly. I called up an agent and went through everything. I wanted to reverify my research about not being able to keep switching plans and he lied saying that I could change my plan every year. (I am not in one of the states where you can do this). He was really pushing me to enroll in the Advantage plan. Beware folks, agents are not unbiased. They get paid to sell you these plans. Thankfully I had made the right choice for me and picked the traditional Medicare where I can go anywhere for my healthcare. Advantage plans are like a HMO’s whereby you cannot go anywhere. IE: can’t go to the Mayo Clinic in some states. Thanks for the video.
That simply isn't true for all plans
I am a recipient of Medicare and I totally agree with agents trying to push you into plans that they make money off of. My Medicare has to coordinate with a state paid coinsurance and a federal program that is specific to one of my major health conditions.
I called one of those mailers to see about switching to a different Medicare plan, and the agent had never heard of the program. Had I switched, I would have been ineligible for the program and my coinsurance.
The moral of the story is, don't just assume that these "agents" have your best interests at heart. They're trying to make money.
It’s so sad how many agents don’t know this or simply lie to make a sale. It is infuriating.
Medicare Advantage plans are just like insurance you get at work. Yes, there are some HMO's, but there are also PPO's as well. which are far less restrictive than HMO's. Many Medicare Advantage plans allow you to see specialists within their network without any prior authorization.
I have used my Medicare Advantage plan at many University teaching hospitals in the area my plan covers. I haven't found anyplace yet that will not accept my Medicare Advantage Plan. And if you have United Health Care and live within an area where there is a Mayo Clinic, they will accept it. Please make sure you completely understand MA plans before you speak. Obviously, if a Mayo Clinic is not in your area or network, MA is not going to allow you to fly halfway across the country to get to one. That defeats the whole purpose of the Medicare Advantage Program, which is to keep costs down.
Outstanding video. I originally signed up for traditional medicare but also for a very inexpensive supplement that only covered 50% of the 20% that medicare did not cover. I was okay with that, because I was/am very healthy. This year, I decided I wanted better coverage, and found a good price on a supplement that provided much better coverage for the 20%. What I didn’t know, was that I had to be approved by underwriting because I was going to a supplement with better coverage than what I originally enrolled in. I had NO idea that I had to pass underwriting to go to a better plan. I thought I could switch supplement plans to whatever I wanted, once per year. NOT SO! Luckily, I am still healthy. But I am so glad I now have the better supplement, and luckily at a good rate.
How much is your supplement?
One plan for EVERYONE! Stop all the corruption between hospitals and insurance companies. 💥🤛
and the GOP
@@dogpatch8266 As early as the 1870s, politicians and newspapers began to refer to the Republican Party as both the “grand old party” and the “gallant old party” to emphasize its role in preserving the Union during the Civil War.
*To be clear...*
You MUST enroll on a TUESDAY, UNLESS it's on a LEAP YEAR, then it must be on the second Wednesday of the month if you own a primary color car -- all owners of non-primary colored colors MUST enroll on the third Sunday of the month ESPECIALLY if you have a ginger cat. If said ginger cat is sick on that day, then you are eligible for Medicare part 24.b where you will be given FREE dental service -- EVERYTHING is FREE, except most things to do with teeth. If you still have teeth and desire Medicare part 24.b, make sure that you are NOT enrolled in Massachusetts (or if it is a holiday, any state beginning with the letter M), because most people do not realize that realizing things can cost you more than enough money to get all that is almost coming to you. And the mostest biggest "gotcha" is today which is the day that you are reading this unless you still have that ginger cat, in which case it is far too late unless you are reading this last week. This "gotcha" INCLUDES all you can eat FREE buffets from 3:32am to 3:34am in most dine-in restaurants, UNLESS you have money or must pay with a credit card. It is important to remember that wet paint can be substituted for not-so-wet paint, if you know what kind of hat to wear to the parking lot if it is storming outside and no one is watching. Failure to notice this will mean immediate forfeiture of all the things that you found handy about the house or two days notice of which is friendly again for the sake of all seniors in the need of special Tuesdays "progressive certification" for a while, or not, which ever comes first.
Sad but true!
@@vivianramsay2527 Indeed, otherwise it might get complicated.
😂 funny but not funny😢
Hysterical TRUTH!!!
But my ginger died from melanoma. Of course the vet wouldn't accept insurance for him because he had cancer too😮. Can I sub a black long hair instead?
Social security benefits for seniors are an essential safety net for many, but it's also crucial to plan ahead and invest wisely for your retirement. Diversifying your investments across can help build wealth over time. It's never too early to start saving and investing for a comfortable retirement. I’m 63 and my husband 65 we are both retired with over $3 million in net worth and no debts. Currently living smart and frugal with our money. Saving and investing lifestyle made it possible for us this early even till now we earn monthly through passive income.
Alright phyllis, speaking in general terms, investing requires a good amount of knowledge. That's why it's essential to have a solid support system like a financial counselor, especially when picking out assets. I've been working with Regina Louise Collaro, who is an investment advisor at a registered wealth management company. I can't recommend her enough; my financial journey has been fantastic thanks to her. She's quite well-known for her services, and she helped me achieve financial stability through investments. Now, I benefit from her passive income strategies every month. So, I'd strongly suggest finding a reliable investment advisor for yourself
Regina Louise Collaro is based in the United States and can work with anybody wherever they stay. If you would like more information about her, you can conduct a search online.
personally, I'm blessed and realizing I'm not the only one working with Regina Louise Collaro. I will consider myself lucky. I've been able to feed and make a living through her advice and great work. For such a person as Regina, I owe her gratitude, support and endless prayers as it is not easy to gain access to such a competent and reliable adviser. Who isn't just wise but has all it takes to handle an investment and is good at what she does..
well bless your hearts
Just keep in mind that the GOP is intent on gutting Medicare, Medicaid and SS. They have said so, publicly.
You are good. I had a Medicare advantage plan and after 9 months wanted to switch to original med. and get a supplement. I was told by 3
agents that I would have to go through underwriting. THEN, I found an agent who told me about the trial period which I was eligible for.
You are good. You are honest.
First choice of insurance you do not have to underwrite. This is another reason to not get an advantage plan. Go to traditional medicare through the government directly. Then if you get kicked out of your advantage plan because you are costing them too much money you don't have to worry about underwriting because government medicare will not kick you out. Stay with your original plan. Get straight government medicare A, get a quality medigap provider B and medicine provider D. Ask a medical provider what they would do before you make a choice. Asking an insurance provider is not your best advice. It is like trying to get dental insurance on the internet. Ask a dentist what they would get. They will tell you who pays the best. That is what you want. I used to work for a lab company and learned insurance providers that were downright worthless.(take your premiums and give you very little in return)
I got an insurance advantage medicare plan.... a broker helped me chose it,... it DID NOT COVER MY AREA... I'm disabled I don't travel out of town... I had no usable insurance that year.
REGULAR MEDICARE IS FANTASTIC!!!!
Wow.
Yes, I had to field some of these calls too. They call to see if we participate with this Medicare Advantage plan that advertises constantly on TV during the enrollment time. I tell them that plan is not popular here and they are restricted to network providers only. They now know they have a useless plan. I tell them to switch to a local Medicare Advantage plan that most providers participate, if they can.
This lady is clearly worthy of our business and i just hope other people can see this as much as I have been able to. Not everyone out there is a scam artist but there certainly are plenty of these types. I am glad to see this lady is so honest and informative. I predict she will do most excellent in her endevors!! I will be calling them asap.
I have Medicare advantage with Connecticare and I’m very happy with it. I do pay 23$ a month for dental which I think is a great price. Compared to the high deductible plan I had thru work before I was 65, I’m thrilled with my insurance. There’s a one a year hospital copay of around 400$ if you go in hospital. So cheap. I don’t know why people don’t like advantage. I love it.
In some areas they can be great!
Another reason we need universal HC. It is INSANE that people must navigate this next to impossible maze just when they are nearing one of the most vulnerable seasons of life.
Medicare Advantage is not that much of an advantage. You get into an HMO and they deny so many things due to cost. They literally said to us, “Well, your granddad has lived a good, long life. So for seniors past a certain age, you’ll need to appeal for cancer treatment. We’d like to put him on Hospice.”
Also, they don’t work with private retirement organizations that track and dispense medications for your loved one or provide other types of care (like physical therapy) on-site. Mobility is a lot for some elderly folks. So having a pharmacy (and dispensary) service on-site is a godsend. Ditto with PT. Fortunately, we were able to switch Grandma because Granddad also had Tricare.
I work for a hospital doing pre authorizations. So many people get the cheapest plan. They don’t realize that those plans don’t cover everything or they have a huge deductible. It is so confusing for the average person and many the brokers signing people up with will say anything to get sale.
Another important aspect of traditional Medicare plans vs Medicare Advantage plans is, if Medicare denies a lab charge due to improper coding for the reasons (symptoms or diagnosis) for testing, traditional Medicare CAN'T bill the patient for denied charges on lab tests, Medicare Advantage, can and will, bill the patient. Most doctors don't understand theses rules and limitations of Medicare and often order testing that Medicare won't pay for at all, or will only cover a test a limited number of times in a year. I used to work with lab denials in a couple of facilities I had worked at, and it was common for very angry Medicare Advantage patients to come in with their bills and demand that I "fix" it. They don't understand why their doctor would order tests that aren't covered by Medicare. Another interesting thing concerning traditional Medicare plans that have a supplemental insurance plan is that the supplemental plan will not cover Medicare denied testing. But in this instance, the patient won't be billed but the facility will be responsible for denied charges. I retired 4 years ago and these were the rules THEN, from my experience processing denials. I am unaware of any changes that may have occurred since. I did not get a Medicare Advantage plan specifically for these reasons and have traditional Medicare with a supplemental. My advise for retirees living on a fixed income with little savings would be to go with a traditional Medicare and a supplemental. Medicare Advantage would be more suitable for those retirees who are more financially secure with significant savings to pay those additional charges that you will receive.
I have lab work done every 3 months, and have never once been denied payment for coverage of labs under Medicare Advantage.
Is a dental plan alone part of supplement?
The person living on a fixed ss income cannot afford the additional charges for a supplement plan, prescription drug plan and a dental plan.
Supplement plan is only good if you can pay all the extra charges.
It sounds like these were rules under the Medicare Advantage Plan you worked for. There are many, many plans and I think the competition among them is putting a stop to these practices. You can change MA plans every year, so angering people will make you lose their business. About 50% of retirees have MA plans. If they were really bad, I think we'd be hearing about it all over the news. 60 minutes and other news shows would probably have big stores at this time during annual enrollment.
@@roadrunner40 I agree. My folks were going into debt paying for their supplement, to the tune of $900 to $1000 a month, along with prescription plans and dental. Above that, mom would have to pay out another couple hundred every 3 months, for the last half of the year, for one of her medications because of the cap on the policy she already paid $130 a month for. I am happy that some folks have more than SSI to fall back on, but many don't.
Good advice shared in this video. Don’t go down the Advantage plan path without fully understanding what you are signing up for. Need to think long term when deciding your health care insurance needs post 65.
I've said this before and I'll say it again (until I die): Medicare advantage plan sales people should be required BY LAW to tell prospective customers that it may be difficult or impossible to switch back to a medigap/supplement plan once they enroll in an advantage plan. I am presently enrolled in an advantage plan and have had very good coverage up to now. But down the road, if my cancer gets worse or some other unpredictable disease comes up, I'm terrified by the prospect that some pencil-necked accountant at an insurance company may determine my fate.
If you get Medicare Advantage plan you are in a Private plan.
Traditional Medicare is always the best.
Let no one. Kid you. Med Advantage put money in
Politicians.
I recently turned 65. I have a pre-existing condition. I'm healthy, but was born with a birth defect that I need period 'maintenance' and equipment. I went with part A & B and chose G+ high deductable. The math works that if I use the supplemental G, paying the deductible and the low payment was CHEAPER than the regular G. This works for me. Typically I need expensive equipment/treatments every couple years, the rest of the time I just do annual physicals. BTW .. the company with the G+ said I had to wait 6 months before they would cover a pre-existing condition.
For my situation I wouldn't touch the Medicare Advantage plan with a ten foot pole. Reasons: 1) you have to take a doctor in network. What if I need a specialist not in network? Not covered. 2) Every treatment has to be APPROVED. They can say no to a treatment you need. That right there is the reason to stay away from this.
Insurance companies doing the Advantage plan are paid a set amount by the government for your care. It's in THEIR best interest not to get you treatment and incur costs.
Thanks for sharing this IMPORTANT information. I turned 65 last year and was pretty well versed after working in medical practices for 25 years, so I resisted the hard sell of MAP. Even when I found a broker I liked, she gently tried to push me by saying it would save me money. If somewhere down the line I can’t afford my supplement, I can always move to a MAP; doesn’t work in the reverse situation. Thanks again, I’ll share your video with friends and family.
Thank you Barb!
Our government sends billions overseas every year but can't assure retirees free medical care without this complicated mess. A disgrace!
It does amaze me how billions are sent out all the time, yet the gov’t claims there’s not enough money for our healthcare we already paid for while we were working. We should all be in the streets with pitchforks demanding we get what we paid for.
What's ironic is that seniors have paid their dues and shouldn't have to contend with the complications. In the meantime, younger people who mostly haven't paid their dues get free care through Medicaid.
Make sure you vote out all Repugnants and we can get to the point where we can get this all free because we’re already paying for it.
This comment should be thousands! I doubt that the 95 billion Biden is sending to Ukraine could be used by Americans.
The US government spends more money on healthcare for seniors than it does on foreign aid. There's a great quote:
"The US government is an insurance company with an army."
Peter Fisher
Undersecretary of the Treasury
2002
Before Medicare was created by the Democrats under LBJ in the 1960's, only about 1/3 of retirees had any form of medical insurance. No for-profit company wants to have anything to do with insuring the sickest population. The only reason why traditional Medicare supplement programs exist is that Medicare picks up the first 80% of bills. The private companies only have to pay for the 80% of the last 20%.
Medicare Advantage only exists because the government pays the insurance companies to cover their policy holders.
For several years, providers always asked me if i had a suppliment.
I saw a video for medicare suppliment G.
For 4 years, i have never had a copay or any out of pocket expenses at all. Get the supliment G, never pay any fee again.
And i have have a lot of surgeries, and out patient procedures.
preach brother Perry.
How much a month do you pay for G?
Laws have changed and G is no longer offered to new enrollees. Only those already grandfathered in can still enroll in G.
@InSearchofTruththruJesusChrist nope. It's F that is no longer offered. G is Still available to new enrolees. I know tjis because I turn 65 this year.
@@terribolan2010 thank you. I stand corrected.
I have traditional Medicare, and a medigap plan G. It’s the most expensive, but I only pay my annual deductible. I decided to go this way because I have some health issues, and this eliminates a lot of worries.
I have saved this video for future reference. My wife and I did work with a very knowledgeable "agent" who warned us exactly as you did about the types of plans and all the considerations which must be taken into account for a good plan selection. So far we have been well-served by our selections (Govt. A&B, K + AARP Supp.) due to her guidance in this "minefield" of rules and regs. You are doing a great service to seniors with this video warning them about the pitfalls and penalties that ignorance can slap onto the unwary and ill-advised purchaser.
Thank you!
I definitely have empathy and concern for seniors who don't have the resources or help to figure this stuff out.
Good to hear from someone who really understands their product! I am 63 and, God willing, will face this decision soon. I was already suspicious of these advantage plans because of the commercials on TV and unsolicited phone calls. Now I understand the "gotcha". Thank you, Stephanie!
You are welcome!
Took me years to learn my health insurance lesson. Medicare supplemental G plan allows me not to waste time with a primary care that has limited knowledge. I choose specialist anytime I want any State anywhere and sometimes out of the country. It does cost you more but it is definitely worth it. Medicare advantage locks you into your neighborhood and you can't get out, and they dictate your doctor referrals😢
Not all medicare advantage plans are like that. I have one, no referrals with my plan as of 2023, more dental coverage. I love it. In a life and death emergency I too can go to the nearest hospital that is in network or out of network, anywhere.
Leave it to politicians to make laws horribly complicated.
Ur comparison of discussing the cup holder instead of the performance of the vehicle was right on. I have never been more frustrated and stressed than when Aetna took over my health care (or lack of it)
I am 75, been on an advantage plan for 9 years. I have had health issues and am extremely happy with my plan. Just a few of my benefits: Primary care is free, Tier 1 drugs are free, specialist are 30$ copay, 60$ every quarter for OTC drugs, 2000$ per year dental, 10$ per month reduction in Medicare payments. These are just a few of the benefits. I have had total knee replacement, hernia repair, melanoma surgery, and my advantage plan has been outstanding in all cases. Approval for treatment was immediate and I have never been denied a claim. I am covered for emergencies if traveling. Advantage plan has a 5 star rating. My wife is a retired nurse practitioner and we both have advantage plans.
I too am happy with the advantage plan. My first 2 months on reg. Medicare I had to pay more than 200.00 for diff. services and since the 1.5 yrs. I have paid nothing .
@@joyceknight9568 but what are you paying for the plan?
I am so glad that I used your company to get medicare. I can't imagine how complicated and how easily someone could be tripped up by all the gotcha's that are in place. thank you!
Me too!! 😊
Medicare DIS advantage plans should be outlawed. Maybe saving up front but if you actually need care you are very, very likely to be denied. As an NP I’ve seen lots and lots of buyers remorse
Very informative video. I'm only 62 right now, but as I approach 65, I will certainly be calling you for more information.
I would love that!
I've had both now. I'm currently on Original with Blue Shield plan G extra and Wellcare part D. I'm turning 73 soon. I had SCAN Classic Advantage Plan for almost 8 years. Both plans have advantages and disadvantages. Just know your decision at the beginning is extremely important and you must understand the differences in them. Use a good experienced agent who specializes in Medicare. There are many resources to help guide you. Stay sharp and healthy. It's always about the money unfortunately, but good health care is extremely valuable as one ages.
Great input!
I am so happy after talking to many seniors and reading and re-reading ALOT. And I decided when I went on SS that I got the Medicare A & B, added a part D and a Gap. Saved me so many hassles. 💕 thank you for confirming I did do what was correct for me.
I took care of my mother's finances after my father died. Her medigap was great. When a provider tried to balance bill her (almost all did), I pointed to her medigap. Let them fight it out.
@@bennri exactly.. I handled my dad's until he passed now I handle my mom's. That was all I needed to see. Its definitely a, b, d and gap for me
Thank you for presenting this complicated information in a very straightforward manner. I am still five years away from Medicare but it’s important to start learning about the process now.
My 73 yr old disabled husband got frustrated by the increasing premiums of his supplemental insurance, so he thought he would try a Medicare advantage plan instead.
I was very nervous about his decision because he has had numerous surgeries and would never pass underwriting w any company 🤦♀️.
I shared a few very informative Utube videos w him and showed him that he had given way too much power to the company rather than his Dr.
Fortunately he is within the 1 yr trial period so he decided to get out asap.Whew!!!
We’re both relieved 🙂 1:35
I will tell you my wife on Medicare and recently had emergency surgery. The bill was very high but I was pleasantly surprised Medicare paid all but an amount that I consider fair. Everyone shoots down Medicare but I can tell its better than alot of employer health insurance.
The one thing that would help seniors is if Advantage plans were not called Medicare Advantage Plans. Seniors hear the name and assume they have the same rules as Medicare. They are just optional Insurance Companies who can and will deny certain things deemed unneeded. A panel of non doctors look at doctor suggested treatments and decide if it is needed. Well guess what there whole job is to make money and they can choose what is not deemed necessary even though your doctor says it is.
Yes! I can't tell you how hard it's been to help my elderly aunts, uncles, in-laws understand this!!
I'm definitely medical insurance challenged. I better figure this stuff out. I'm 71 and in good health thank God. I'll try and educate myself with your videos.
I did the trial right #1. I found out about it by doing my own research. I read the Medicare book and decided to leave my advantage plan for a supplement and original Medicare.
I've had a great Medicare Advantage plan for 15 years in the suburbs where there is competition and plenty of providers, but friends further out in the country do not have very good options.
I work in a sector of healthcare that requires pre-authorization for patient stays. We call Medicare Advantage plans Medicare Disadvantage plans. Its tough to get those patients into our unit. Many end up in a nursing home with all the attached “blessings.”
🎉these videos are golden. Thank you
You are so welcome!
I ended up going with a Humana HMO plan and it has been pretty good. A year and a half ago I ended up in the hospital for 2 weeks and had 2 surgeries, initial bill was 98k I had to pay 2% of that. A few months later I had another surgery (follow up to the previous ones) and spent 4 days in the hospital and only had a $350 copay for it (no idea what the cost was on that one). Dental is not great but few plans cover much.
I talked with a very nice lady who helped me through all the quirks, etc. if Medicare and didn’t cost me anything! I suggest people find such a person!
What a convoluted and screwed up system we have.
I truly wish there were public statistics on complaints around the Advantage referral process for specific Advantage plans in any given state, THAT is the primary decision factor which seems to be what is truly unknown for people. Or at least state rankings around complaints for such.
Thanks again for your insightful and informative vids: Bc I watched, I protected myself from someone hustling me into a well-known Advantage plan: The person didn't know anything other than maybe her need to make sales. Thanks again.
When I first signed up for Medicare, I thought that the Part B premium was $164.90 per month and I set up a checking account to automatically pay the premium. What I didn't know, and what Medicare did not tell me, was that the first $742.50. Fortunately, there was enough money in the checking account to cover the first premium. I feel sorry for people who are not prepared for that.
Hi, why was there $742.50 due? Why not the $164.90 per month as you thought? My husband is signing up soon so just wondering what to expect.
@@joans5619the amount is because Medicare requires paying for three months at a time.
I'm paying it, too and the plan N supplement instead of the advantage plans.
I don't want to get stuck with small numbers of doctors and the insurance company in charge of my care. Don't forget the advantage plans also sock it to ya with huge deductibles.
Just to be clear, if you get Social Security benefits, each month's premium will be subtracted from monthly benefit. If you self-pay (not collecting SS), you will get quarterly bills for 3 months of premiums. Social Security online docs do mention the first bill may be higher to collect for prior months. There's more to the story here as the amount due is not a multiple of $164.90 in this instance.
I found out somehow (can't remember the details), that I could opt out because I get all my health care at the VA. It's a little complicated, but I was given specific instructions to follow before the end of the month in order to not have that first payment ($134.00 I think it was) taken out of my SS check, which I did follow, and they still took it out! I googled and found out that is actually like a gov't scam kind of thing or something that they do and get away with a lot. If anyone cares to look into this to see what I'm talking about, feel free. I'm just glad I did end up opting out because I get pretty good care at the VA, and I only pay a small co-payment for everything, and I get to keep that $134.00 every month.
No where does Medicare tell you they bill that quarterly. There is no option to pay monthly. Why not? A lot of other companies give options to pay quarterly OR monthly. I am glad I didn't set up auto pay.
if you are rural go with a gap plan. if you get sent to a specialist in the city you may not be covered but with gap you should be. city dwellers are better fitted for advantage plans as there are more providers under one umbrella
When a commercial for Medicare Pt. C came on the TV and the actor said, "I enrolled to get everything I'm entitled to," my dad used to say, "That's what I'm afraid of."
😱
🤣 Yes. Total misrepresentation.
On an Advantage plan now, too late , time wise, for me to change. Wish I'd seen this video a few years back when I was first eligible.
Damn! I'm turning 65 this year. I already have good medical coverage for my wife and I that I've paid a lot for over an eternity. I'm getting blind calls and offers in the mail. Until I understand medicare, I'm blowing off everything. This was the first video on the subject I've viewed. Holy shit could it be made anymore confusing? I've got a lot to learn I see.
We are in the same boat with hubby turning 65 this year. I am watching tons of videos and plan on attending a free seminar in our area. Might be something to look into for your area, as well.
It's not really that confusing...it's just new to you and different..take some time and do a deep dive into how it works..you'll feel better and make wiser decisions.
@@dinahsoar6982 The irony within your single statement is just the insight I needed. Thanks.
Thanks for the information! It's all so ridiculously complicated!!! And it seems intentional!!
Retired a couple years ago and went with the Medicare Advantage plan, big mistake if I needed a specialty doc like ent, gastroenterologist.
They tell me the doctor is no longer accepting new patients but the other specialty doc’s in the advantage plan suck.
I’m going on regular Medicare after this year.
Btw, I called Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale and they only take regular Medicare, they will not accept anyone on an a Advantage plan….. Wow!!
I'm eager to hear if you're successful going back. My understanding of the fine print is once you're on Advantage, you can never go back.
@@coleramus561 that’s good to know, so essentially they baffle the consumer with bs and then after a couple years in the advantage plan it’s too late to change and now I’m stuck with it.
And on top of that because of my retirement income, my premiums go up and my SSI check goes down. 👇
@@coleramus561 That is the impression I had, too.
@@coleramus561 Just an update, I did call the main Medicare number on the back of the card and asked her that question and she did say I can transfer back to straight Medicare and leave the advantage plan if I choose during the normal enrollment period….for what that worth.
I am 65 and going on Medicare and Social Security for the first time. It's nice to have knowledgeable people like this to help to try and steer us in the right direction. I do have an insurance broker to help me make my decisions. That being said, this is the most confusing and expensive crap I have ever experienced. I feel like the government is ripping me off no matter what direction I take and health care is just not affordable. As soon as I get sick I will lose everything is how I feel. I know I'm not alone in these thoughts.
soooon true. God Bless you Eddie
I had one back surgery and two hip replacements. I didn't pay anything out of pocket with my traditional Medicare and supplemental policy. Well worth the cost of the policy! Also, no hassle to see a specialist.
That’s excellent!
True 100%. Original Medicare + Supplement is the best health care insurance you can get. No restrictions, no prior approvals. See any specialist anywhere in the country.
What are your monthly premiums? Are you merely amortizing the cost? My Medicare advantage cost me no premium. My knee replacement cost me about $1500.
@@nejdro1 REALLY, you are paying no premium for your Medicare advantage health insurance ! This is a outrageous lie! What insurance company would pay for your knee replacement without you paying a premium!
I pay no monthly premium. I do have co-pays for specialists, etc. My knee operation cost me a total of $1300.@@LydiaBucci-i1d
Like the U S tax code and an average telephone bill, these “plans”, and bills with so many rules, regulations and “if you do this, you need to or can’t do this” scenarios, are intentionally convoluted and confusing to the average person, in the hopes you will just grow frustrated and give up searching for the best price, plan , or tax advantage, ultimately costing folks way more than they should. All the result of rules and inclusions inserted for and by special interests, by a bloated, corrupt and inefficient government bureaucracy.
Wow! I'm so happy your channel showed up in my feed. I'll be eligible for Medicare in less than 2 years, and I already know that I'm going with traditional Medicare. I work in the mental health field, and I ONLY accept traditional Medicare. Here in Colorado, we (healthcare providers) refer to the replacement plans as "Medicare DISadvantage." I feel bad for the folks who were lured in by "special cup holder" you mentioned. These plans are awful, and are absolutely NOT an advantage to the people who have them.
Hi, Stephanie ! While I considered myself to be fairly well informed when I became eligible in September of last year, I'm so glad I utilized your service ! There are so many rules and regulations that it's nearly impossible to know everything ! Your service gave me the extra level of support in providing the comfort level I was looking for. While I felt confident that I knew enough to avoid a bad decision, it's always good to know that I can reach out to you with any questions or concerns . Thank you !
Wonderful! We look forward to helping you for years to come.
I have a broker/ friend who helps me every year. Now I just call & ask her to check around & I still go with my traditional & a supplement. I think MC Advantage may be ok for those living in bigger cities but in small towns you don’t have Specialty Dr & have to travel Hours to get one. We have a Beautiful hospital but can’t seem to keep any good Drs here in our small rural desert town.
👵🏻👩🌾❣️
Love, love, love your information.
Here are some (approx.) dollar amounts:
Medicare Part A = free, Medicare part B = $160, Medicare part D (prescription) = $12, Medicare's Medigap part G = $170.
These four items add up to (approx.) $342/mo. per each person that needs insurance.
The average Social Security monthly check, per person is $2,485 and when people see that $342/mo. insurance premium they panic and pass up the great opportunity that is in front of them.
The sharks move in and call themselves Advantage Plans. The only advantage to for the Sharks and they have the right to DENY your doctor's recommendations for coverage, until you eventually die from the ailment, which the doctor has said was there all along. The doctor isn't going to treat you, if the Advantage Plan denies your problem exists, but your teeth will be clean.
😁
@@MikeAnn193
Advantage Plans are okay if you only need dental, vision, and pills, but once your doctor tries to keep you well or cure your sickness you'll have to file a law suit against the Advantage provider and they'll wait you out, until you die.
Medicare part B 164.90
@@angelawhite4795
I use rounded off numbers for quick math.
The sad part is that half of the people getting Social Security receive less than the $2,485/mo. average and $342/mo. (for insurance) is too much of their budget.
If your career has been in the food service industry or hospitality industry, your monthly benefit will be way, way less than the Social Security average.
If you've been a minimum wage earner your entire life, your benefit will be even less.
These are the poor people, which Advantage Plans prey upon.
@@MikeAnn193 Go with a PPO plan instead of an HMO plan, and you are almost limitless in the number of doctors you can see.
So glad I live in a country where healthcare is free.
Lucky you! I would just as soon leave sooner, than later, so I don't need to worry about it!
Nothing is free anywhere in the world.
RN here- NEVER take an advantage plan. I am forever baffled by people working their whole lives and finally getting Medicare only to turn around and give their benefits to an insurance company! Advantage plans are a SCAM.
@MaryMeola..Then what
It is but some places will not accept straight Medicare, such as Bend Oregon. It’s criminal that my mom has to pay for advantage plan and out of pocket has been horrid. Biggest scam ever on retirees
@@sharonkincaid6565 Sometimes, as difficult as it is, relocating for economic or healthcare needs is necessary.
@@sharonkincaid6565 - and there are some that won’t take Advantage plans. This is not unique to Bend, OR. It’s a nationwide phenomenon.
@@imxploring - sometimes it means giving up your trusted healthcare provider for one that’s accepting the insurance plan you have.
Great help for new Medicare applicants. My brother is ready to retire and enroll in something. I have Medigap and love it. Iam trying to educate him so he is not stuck with the Advantage Plan.
This is such a great video, chucky jam full of super inportant information.
The inportant thing to remember is
Nothing is free 😮
Insurance companies want your money or premium but ....
They not want to pay for the care you need
Its all shell game.
This is so complicated, why don’t they make simple for older citizens 🤦♀️
Because private corporate insurance is involved
Because people in America are brainwashed and keep electing wrong people which is GOP.
Agree 100%.
Because the confusion benefits the con artist companies selling you these products
They will either get their money up front (Supplement Plan), or as you go (Advantage Plan). You will pay. These companies get around $10,000 to run your benefits, and its just a fight for them to see how much of the $10K they can keep.
As a Medicare CSR, I must say thank you for putting this out there. I explain this pitfall on almost every call, and have long thought there should be a TH-cam channel that explains the complicated maze of American healthcare. It's great to see an agent be so forthcoming. Kudos to you ma'am.
Thank you!
Traditional Medicare and Plan G . Plus a drug plan. See any Doctor or go to any Hospital no network . Pay the 240 part B deductible and all other charges that are Medicare Approved are paid.
But what if it's on a Tuesday and I have a ginger cat?
@@ts-900?
@@JDStaffylover I'm being facetious. Their rules are so convoluted and nonsensical that they might as well add such stipulations.
I still can't believe anyone takes any of this seriously. It ALL needs to go NOW.
@@ts-900well... if it's 30 days hath September you might be ok.
@@terribolan2010 Well okay then, because it hath.🐈Ginger cat is happy.
I have part A but I'm not taking part B I'm not paying $165. per month, for something I only use like once every 5 years or so. If you pay cash there is about a 40% discount. If your on Medicare then the bill is inflated 40% and your stuck paying 20% of that bigger amount. Have you ever been hounded by sales people in your life and they were trying to do you a favor.
I've had similar experiences, with much bigger discounts for cash pay.
Your videos are very clear and informative.
Thank you!
I screwed up and got on an Advantage Plan! They turned down everything, even a chest X-Ray. I was very lucky at 70 and got underwritten and OK’d for a supplement plan. Plan G. It is expensive, but worth every penny. Have to pay dental, prescription, hearing. So that’s extra.
Around $200.00 a month total! Boy, was I lucky to get on!!!!
$200 for all of that ?? Wow that is very cheap compared to most others. Some people pay over $200 just for their supplement plan. I’m just turning 65 and my total will be around $320/month
I’m 78 and my husband is 86. We both have been on regular Medicare A and B since turning 65. We also have AFLAC cancer policies. For years We also joined a Christian share care group long before Medicare, but decided to keep it instead of a Gap plan. They covered some things that Medicare didn’t. Eventually as we needed more medical care, I got tired of all the paperwork for the Christian group, so was advised to buy the G plan. It is more expensive but no hassle for me. But we had to undergo underwriting and I was turned down by AARP so we are both with Blue Shield of CA. Our regular Medicare costs around $150 a month each, I think, and the G Plan costs around $650 now but goes up every year. I love not having to do all the paperwork, and can go to any doctor and get almost any procedure I need, however between the two of us we are paying nearly $1000 a month. My husband, however, just finished his third issue with cancer. If it were true that an advantage plan pays 100% as she says, there would be no copays for anything.
I am still a bit young for medicare.... BUT.... as a nurse get asked questions all the time and your video is fantastic for making all the "garbage" clear! Great job!
Thank you!
I had a friend tell me about you and the insightful videos you put out to help seniors. When I get closer to that decision age I will seek out your help. Thanks for being here on TH-cam.
Wow, thank you!
I manage a mental health practice with a provider who specializes in seniors so most of her client base is Medicare. I can’t tell you how many of our clients have accidentally changed their Medicare coverage to Advantage plans without even knowing it had happened and as soon as that change is made we’re no longer in their network. I don’t know exactly how it happens but if you’re already on Medicare be *very* aware of what you’re signing up for during open enrollment periods. Don’t sign anything that says Advantage or references other insurance companies unless you actually *want* to be switched to them managing your plan.
These Medicare "advantage" plans have television ads that emphasis the dental and vision coverage and do not explain that you will have a small group of physicians and higher co-payments. If you travel, any medical service will be "out of network" and very expensive.
The TV ads are constant and deceptive.
@@swindewhile traveling, if you’re on Advantage, you can only use urgent care in order for your insurance to pay for it. If urgent care refers you to a doctor, Advantage will pay. Personal experience.
Okay I'll get traditional and AARP for seniors, thanks for helping me
I have the Advantage plan for a couple of years before I turned 65.
I looked into getting medigap but the prices are so much higher than advantage plus I had to add in dental and vision.
The advantage plan was just like the insurance I had when I worked.
My thoughts exactly. It worked for me, and it'll work for me now.
So you are getting more for less money? LOL. Impossible. These are private insurers their objective is to make money for themselves. You are just a facilitator or patron. They will kick you out if you start costing them too much.
@@malanalan1 And you know that how? You can see the future? It's been great for years!! I don't want some government-run crap. They handled Social Insecurity so well, right??
@@malanalan1 most probably works for an advantage company they are everywhere and start stalking you as soon as you turn 62 yrs or even before these companies are scammers and I’m always skeptical when I see someone praising them
@@jimroscovius I wouldn't have anything else. I still yet have to get a bill from my Medicare Advantage Plan. They have covered everything I have needed. Make sure doctors and hospitals use the correct coding for the procedures you are getting done, and Medicare Advantage will pay every time, without any questions.
Everybody listening to this Stephanie is fabulous saved me from a lot of headache a very honest broker well informed great to work with I am so happy that I found her when I turned 65 and then retired from nursing and needed a supplemental plan and part B thank God
Wow, thank you so much!
Part C plans ("Advantage plans") give control of your care and medical benefits to an insurance company.... never a good thing.
This all boggles my mind!
But, I followed most of what you said.
I turn 65 in 8 months and am definitely not looking forward to having to deal with all this!
My older brother got through all this for himself last year.
He was telling me what the difference was between Advantage plans and Supplemental plans.
I'm not looking forward to having to sift through all this Medicare information to make my choices.
Ugh!!!
Let us help! We do all the leg work for you and the service is complete free. Watching videos and learning in advance also helps!
(888)465-9728
Why are insurance companies so corrupt in America?
Because it’s a huge unregulated money grab, with lots of lobbyist and politicians in pocket to keep it that way.
ask Florida's Rick Scott
@@ChromeLuxxdid all boils down comes back to the beginning it is the occult
I opted for an Advantage HMO because I could not find a doctor in my area who was accepting new Medicare patients. And my own doctor refused to see me for the same reason. I guess Medicare doesn't pay doctors enough to make up for the paperwork burden?
Advantage Plans prevent patients from getting needs due to many providers not accepting their plans!! I have seen it happen!
As a newly minted nurse, this is very helpful.
My wife and I paid for supplements for two years until I retired at 67. Then we switched to an advantage plan. We were paying over $800 a month and have been paying $0 for the past three years. That's $28,000. All of the hospitals in our area accept our carrier. We pay $20 to see a GP and $35 to see a specialist. I just had surgery with follow-up for $35. We get all kinds of screenings and diagnostics at no charge. I don't understand why people think it is a scam.
I agree. We had original Medicare with a supplement plan. We were paying for Part B, about $165 each. Due to it coming out of Social Security some forget to add that amount into their monthly total. Next, you have to keep $400 each aside. That is out of pocket before the supplemental plan will pay your 20%. Next, the cost of the supplemental plan. We paid $700 a month, $350 each. I added up our yearly cost and it as way more than what we pay for our Advantage Plan. We only go to the doctor for our yearly physical. Thankfully, we aren’t sick very often. We take supplements, which we use or OTC card to pay, We exercise or walk and try to eat healthy. I realize there are some who need to go to the doctor for serious medical issues and the original Medicare with a supplemental would be of benefit for them. You need to get what is best for you.
Great video.. My transition to Medicare was a nightmare.. We spent almost 3 months with no health insurance.. my employment insurance cancelled us because I had only signed up for part A and not part B. (would have been nice if we were told beforehand) Now I pay for 2 health insurances and get less for our money...
Yet another reminder of the simple fact that "Your country is just not that into you."
I live in Pa and have a highmark bc bs med adv plan.I had a triple bypass and paid nothing.I pay nothing for pcp and specialists visits. Zero for lab work.zero for tier 1 And tier 2 drugs.very low copays for mri, outpatient surgery and so on.I am in a hmo and I guess the trade off is lower costs for staying in network.also I have a zero premium. W.Pa is pretty good for medicare Advantage Plans.
I will be going on medicare in 3 months and I also live in western Pa, can you tell me / post the plan name that you have, I am looking at the Highmark BcBs Is it the COMMUNITY BLUE MEDICARE HMO SIGNATURE plan ???
Impossible
i became my mother's caregiver/power of attorney after she got dementia. i chose a fantastic supplement for her that lasted a year or 2. unbeknownst to me, on down the road the company dropped the supplement plan and only had an advantage. i didn't realize this until our 1st office visit in the new year, and she had huge amounts to pay instead of just the deductible she would have had otherwise. unfortunately, i was unable to do anythibg about it until the next year. this was years ago, and i'm sure lots of stuff's changed; however, even now that i'm on medicare myself (and have a huge number of health problems/doctors, i'll never go baxk to an advantage plan.
Good video. Everyone should be very aware of the facts that you mentioned about not being able to get a supplement plan when trying to return to regular Medicare. My own advice, after watching this video and many more about Medicare, personal experience, and reading a lot of articles about Medicare, would be that almost everyone who can afford a supplement plan should go that route. They can always change to Medicare Advantage later if they choose to. As to the perks-ask how much their dental plan would pay for implants. Even my work plan would only pay about 10%.
I just found out that the government gives over 1000$ per month to the insurance carriers to sign up and cover customers on advantage plans plans!
Yup!
Then the sickening gov should give the money grabbers $800 a month and make medicare premium FREE!! Its disgusting. I paid nothing for Insurance when I was under 65, now simply cuz of my age I'm forced into this joke of medicrap!! I'm in good health. This should be a factor in what one pays just like it was before. I didnt magically become some sickly decrepid person when the calendar went from me being 64 to 65! Medicare is a rip off we are forced into, having no alternative makes it a monopoly!!
I have a Medicare advantage plan. I would really like the medigap but being poor I can’t afford it. I do get the free gym membership. The gym is close to my house, it gives me something to do without spending money and the $250 a month tuition scholarship for the grandkids is kind of my motivation to show up at the gym. Plus in the summer I can go to the gym at the hottest part of the day and turn off my home air conditioning. I trust my health insurance broker. I’m hoping he’s put me on the right path. I’m still broke but with the no premium payment at least I can afford other luxuries, like food.
Wait until you actually need health insurance. You will see how much is lacking with your "no cost " plan.
@@door2416 maybe.But right now I can’t afford the premium. I also have some other kind of plan, similar to Aflac, or whatever that commercial with the duck is, which pays me something towards catastrophic illness.
$0 up front, pay later !
it pisses me off how confusing they make things. just take care of our elderly... why does it have to be all convoluted! I'm so angry.
I love your channel Stephanie! Thank you.
Thank you!
Why when one retire's does the SSA, automatically a few month's after receiving your first retirement check. Start with drawing fund's from it and applying it to one's medicare plan. Which one will get an offical letter after the money is all ready been taken out and will continue. Informing the person that should they don't want the coverage. To leave the attached medical ID card on, put an "X" not a check mark (I found out the hard way between an "X" and a check mark). Sign it, insert it into the included envelope and mail it back. And if your lucky, in three to four month's time. The original fee as well as those additional month's it took to stop it. Will be replaced in full. I say lucky because, I not putting an "X" and simply putting a check mark, caused my opting out to be mooted. Having to do it agian, but putting an "X" where it was supposed to be. Caused my opting out and returning of any and all the fee's in the time it took, which was 6 month's.
Recently, well acutally 8 month's ago, my retired wife, had the first fee taken out, received a letter a month later. Informing her she had to respond to the opting out process with in ten day's of it happening. But in as much as it took a month to get the letter envoling the opt our process. It's impossible to do it with in the ten day's. She having my experience, put the "X" where it's supposed to be. Signed it, inserted it into the additional pre stamped and address include envelope. With the ID attached as mandated. It's now been 9 month's, and after two phone call's which take's an average of some 90 minute's which 60 of which is being on hold. Simply told, yes, we received your opt out, it was scanned into the system. I'll send an notice to expedite it. Call back in a month. Have a nice day, good bye.
Why when one has to file the various paper's prior to receiving their SS Retirement check's. Isn't the option of opting out at that point in time done?