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Congratulations, you are turning 65. So, you are one of the lucky ones. I always say the best thing that can happen to someone age 64 is they turn 65 and go onto Medicare. For people paying for medical insurance there is a significant cost saving accompanied by better benefits.
Medicare is medical insurance offered thru the Department of Social Security Medicare Division for people age 65+ and certain individuals that receive Social Security Disability for over 2 years. Medicare (also referred to as Original Medicare) offers this insurance in 2 parts:
For most people, there is no cost for Part A, but there is a charge of $134 per month for Part B (this assumes income is below $85K individual or $170K couple).
Most people will automatically be enrolled into Medicare A & B. You should receive your Medicare ID, 90 days prior to your 65th birthday month.
If you have not received your Medicare ID card then you should contact Medicare, 1-800-772-1213 or apply online.
Medicare offers pretty good health insurance coverage however it has some glaring deficiencies:
You are required to enroll into a prescription drug plan. Failure to enroll into a prescription drug plan will result in penalties if you attempt to enroll into a prescription drug plan in the future.
Because of this most people add a Supplement, Medigap, Medicare Part D, Medicare Part C or Medicare Advantage Plan.
This is where I come into the picture. I can help you choose the Supplement, Medigap, Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage Plan that is best for you. Supplements, Medigap plans are not the same as Medicare Advantage also referred to as Medicare Part C. Did you know there are Medicare Advantage plans available for as little as $0. Many of these plans include prescription drug coverage and satisfy the mandate.
Here is a brief synopsis of the plans offered. I can help you to understand these plans and select the plan that is best for you.
Is a strong provider. They offer 3 plan choices including a $0 premium option. Premera Blue Cross is a recognized and trusted name.
has remained a strong provider of coverage. They are one of the few companies that offer a PPO, which means “no referrals”. They also offer a $0 premium plan, and the Humana network of doctors which was already large has grown quite a bit. Humana also offers an Over the Counter and Transportation benefit.
offers 4 plans choices including a $0 premium option. They also offer an option with Generic Drug Coverage in the Coverage Gap.
Offers a $0 premium option, which includes all the extras. The also offer a plan for people who receive both Medicare and Medicaid
Molina is an excellent choice for people who receive both Medicare and Medicaid. Molina offer additional benefits that make it very attractive.
offers its Blue Advantage HMO and the Regence Advantage PPO. Regence offers an inclusive prescription drug formulary, and a large provider network.
At Kaiser Permanente, they make medical care easy by having everything in one place. I find them very efficient and effective.
Offers 2 PPO plan options; these are plans that do not require referrals. They are an excellent choice for snowbirds or if you just like to get away from time to time.
Many of these plans include the famous Silver Sneakers program which gives you a health club membership. This and many other benefits are offered at no additional cost. That’s why they call it Medicare Advantage.
