Medicap (Medicare supplements) vs Medicare Advantage plans

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Originally Posted by Khsoj

Frankly, I don't understand why anyone who lives in a rural area would even think of getting an advantage plan. They are a great deal if you live in a larger metro area where they are popular. But whats the point of signing up for then if no one (or else no one close) where you live will take them?

Many states are beginning to use the advantage plans for their retirees who are age 65 (or older) and offering nothing else. It certainly cuts state expenses and I doubt that they'll ever go back to their old health plans. These generally work out OK unless you live in some remote rural area (like say retired school teachers)

I agree. Medicare Advantage Plans work well in more densely populated areas. Of course, you could not be admitted unless your were in their coverage area. The coverage area is reviewed by Medicare to assure proper medical care under this plan. Well, it suppose to be but I have my doubts if they make a good assessment in some of the fringe areas of the coverage area.

I am basically satisfied with Kaiser Senior Advantage in the Denver area but I always look at other plans so to make a decision every year if it is the best plan. I make no assumptions that it will continue to be the best for me in the future. The big issue for me is hate more paperwork and Kaiser just works with a minimum of communications and I tend to look at supplement plans as a bigger hassle.

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[Ariadne22]

LC, with your health issues, could you get approved if you chose to switch?

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Originally Posted by Ariadne22

LC, with your health issues, could you get approved if you chose to switch?

Yes and No. I have not done much research on supplement plans in Colorado because I have no interest in these plans. It is complicated when you talk about Guaranteed Issue of Medigap Plans. It depends on what is offered in your state and what is your age and what plan you are coming from. Basically in Colorado, I can move from my Medicare Advantage Plan to selected types of Medigap Plans, even with my health conditions.

If I leave Kaiser Medicare Advantage Plan, I would more likely go to another Advantage Plan or a PPO Plan.

The Advantage Plans have been the least costly of what I have seen. I can get a plan with no additional cost per month but I have selected a plan with a very minimal monthly cost that includes prescription drug coverage.

It is really a difficult issue in understanding Medicare, especially for the elderly and those of diminished cognitive abilities. This publication is available to understand the supplemental plans under Medicare http://www.medicare.gov/publications/pubs/pdf/02110.pdf
If you can understand this publications with the first reading, then you can pass GO because you are a smart person.

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