Friday, November 04, 2011

Is Medicare Supplemental Insurance On Your Mind?


With Age Comes Goodies to Take Daily
I've been dealing with a medical situation the past month and I'm grateful for having excellent health insurance picking up the tab. I also live in a popular retirement destination where value is king. Many of my neighbors are thinking of Medicare Supplemental Insurance while they sit by the pool soaking in Florida sunshine and enjoying their pretty cocktails topped with colorful umbrellas.  All while I’m sitting in an office typing away. *sigh*
Honestly, I'm not up to speed on Medicare supplements but I've been doing a little research in exchange for having my travel habit supported. A few years ago just before my grandmother became ill Medicare changed a tad bit. When she fell ill it was extremely important she had a Medigap plan.

Okay, the term "Medigap" reminds me of being in Britain on the Tube when the voice says, "mind the gap". Never mind...

Medigap is private supplemental health insurance covering the “gap” in expenses between Medicare reimbursement and the full amount charged. i.e.: difference in medications or tests.) According to an Aug. 2008 report by the Kaiser Family Foundation called, “ExaminingSources of Coverage Among Medicare Beneficiaries: Supplemental Insurance,Medicare Advantage, and Prescription Drug Coverage,” as of 2006, 18 percent of Medicare beneficiaries had a Medigap policy.   

Um, okay. I realize that's about five years ago but that doesn't seem like a whole heck of a lot of people and this Medigap stuff already sounds confusing. Luckily, there are some resources on the web to help you find the best plan, such as what Kaiser Permanente offers. It's best to compare Medigap plans and find the best one for your needs. 

Remember, I work in the tourism industry and am not an expert on medical insurance or Medicare supplements. I'm just like you, sharing what I learn and researching before I make an educated purchase. And I'm sure hoping this Medicare thing is figured out when it’s time for me to sign up.

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