Quote:
Originally Posted by Scott S
Yes it is a supplement policy, after reading your post I think it's time for a talk with mom, good info to think about.
Thanks..
Scott S
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The entire Medicare + Medicare Supplements [Medigap policies] is terribly confusing for seniors [everybody for that matter]/
There is Medicare PART A, this covers hospital IN PATIENT stays[1a]
There is Medicare PART B, this covers out patient treatments and doctor office visits. [1b]
There is Medicare PART D,this in the new one that covers prescription drugs.
[1a] Hospital RISK= $1068 this year for any hospital stay under 60 days.
[1b] one time annual deductible of $135. this year.
Then there are the Medigap PLANS, a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j. These are insurance policies purchased from private companies.
I have found Medigap plan d to have the best bang for the buck. It DOES cover [1a] above
What it DOES NOT cover
1. prescription drugs. Now with Medicare PART D above, one does not need Rx coverage in a supplement too.
2. It does nor cover the 'excess charges' that a Doctor that does not accept Medicare assignment, may charge. A money hungry insurance agent may push for this using the scare of high charges. But again there is the Medicare approved amount and the Doc that does NOT accept Medicare assignment may only charge 15% more than the Medicare approved amount. [Office visit $100. Medicare approved amount $38. The Doc may charge 15% above the $38. Not worth insuring.] Anyplace with a large senior population and virtually ALL Docs will accept Medicare assignment.
3 It does not cover the Medicare PART B deductible. Which is $135. this year. [it usually goes up very few dollars each year] That is a one time $135 deductible per year. NOT PER DOCTOR. ALL plans that do pay this $135. have a premium total well in excess of $135 more.
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