Ask Terry Questions medicare suppliment

medicare suppliment

By Terry Savage on March 01, 2017 |

Do you really need one and if so can you tell me good ones to choose from and what to stay away from. I don't want to get scammed . I will be 65 in August and all this is haunting me.

Terry Says

OMG -- YES, you REALLY need a Medicare supplement plan (sometimes called Medigap).  Medicare itself pays only a portion of your healthcare costs, leaving you with deductibles, co-pays, and other uncovered expenses.  And you should definitely choose a supplement as soon as you apply for Medicare. If you buy one within the first six months, you cannot be turned down for the best coverage, even if you have pre-existing conditions.  (Yes, there is still a pre-existing issue in Medicare supplement plans!). Fortunately, it is easy to pick a plan.  Just go to www.Medicare.gov, where the plan comparisons are easy for plans in your state. Here is a link to that portion of the Medicare.gov site.    You want to buy the most comprehensive policy possible, regardless of monthly cost.   The most comprehensive plan is now labeled Plan F -- and you can lower the monthly cost but agreeing to pay a higher annual deductible.    But you really want coverage for copayments for both hospital and doctors charges, (Part A and B) and for excess charges -- all of which you will find in Plan F.   Then you can go directly from the Medicare website to see which companies offer the plans, and go directly to their websites. An even better idea is this shortcut -- and I personally guarantee you will not get ripped off!  Go to www.eHealthMedicare.com   Or call them at 888-519-2017    They will walk you through the choices and give you great advice, AND help you sign up!  They make it easy, and you don't pay extra since the costs are borne by the insurance carrier.  And they are not incented to choose one over another, but will  help you make the best choice for your situation.

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