Omg, as a mid-forties woman with parents/family members who are on/going on Medicare, I have to ask why is this so so complicated. I’m pretty smart and my eyes cross when they start to discuss their plans, deductibles, drug plans, part a, b, c….im feeling hopeless for when I eventually go on this, is there no way to make things more simple and streamlined? Normal people (must less older adults with lots
Risky cognitive decline) cannot spend their time/energy understanding this. It’s maddening.
This link has the contact information for the SHIP/SHIBA program (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) in all 50 states, District of Columbia, and three US territories.
There was an organization called SHIBA in Washington state. Heard Oregon had one, but there might be something similar in most states. A non profit group of people that had workshops and trained volunteers to help understanding. They were a life saver, as we felt very overwhelmed. https://www.insurance.wa.gov/find-local-shiba-office
Since I was older, I was eligible for a plan F. No deductibles. Covers plan A and B (hospital and non hospital medical services). Wife missed qualifying by 27 days, but plan G is nearly identical to F, but has an annual deductible. (I think it was about $260-80ish last year.) If it's medical or hospital issue covered by Medicare, it's covered by the F and G plan. I have never had a bill, not even for a CAT scan and Ultrasound, but it's bare bones. No Massages, gym memberships, etc. A plan D is prescriptions. You plug in your zip code, and what meds you are on, and it populates a list by total price (which includes all the Plan D options as well as the meds. Have friends that wanted a Plan C ("advantage plan"). but their plan, while cheaper, has some co pays and deductibles. We just didn't want to mess with that. aain, check with your state to see if they have SHIBA or it's equivalent.
https://www.shiphelp.org/about-medicare ... p-location
Statistics: Posted by MtnBiker — Tue Oct 15, 2024 11:11 pm — Replies 24 — Views 934