Medicare Supplemental Insurance

My question is pertaining to medicare supplemental insurance. Even though a person has medicare part A and B, a supplemental insurance is necessary (called medi-gap). There is also something called medicare advantage HMO and PPO. I don't know if it would be better to select the medicare advantage plan (whether the HMO or PPO) along with medicare B, or if I would be better off selecting a supplemental plan (medi-gap) like AARP, or what plan to choose.

Of course, now there is also medicare part D? What a decision. Does anyone have any advice on what supplemental plan they would choose? Also, I don't really know how the medicare advantage plan works? Thanks for any replies.

P.J. from DE

Answers:

Medicare Supplemental Insurance

This is tough stuff to decide. I work as a hospital social worker and regularly refer people to our state insurance department where they have a person who specializes in senior issues such as supplements, part D, etc. Most state offices have a toll free line so you don't have to pay long distance. I've found these counselors to be wonderful. Good luck! (05/17/2006)

By Pat

Medicare Supplemental Insurance

I work in a doctor's office and am amazed at what these people have been promised and never get. They send in the money and then are denied most claims. Please, please if you find an insurance company that doesn't add up report them to the insurance commissioner!

Don't let them get away with it. Secure Horizons Direct is one that comes to mind that you "should steer away from"! This patient was promised the world and gets nothing. Be very careful. Most patients would have been better off going with something straight from Medicare. (05/17/2006)

By Brendalu

Medicare Supplemental Insurance

I know it's bewildering! Part D is only pharmacy. To choose a MediGap plan, I would suggest that you go to the Medicare website, www.medicare.gov. You should find lots of information to guide your choice. You might also call your state's SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program), a program that offers local one-on-one counseling and assistance to people with Medicare. Best of luck! (05/18/2006)

By Claudia-MD