It is a complicated subject, I agree. I have spent the last 25 years thinking about it and trying to explain it to people. So, for now I will put on my teacher hat and explain something coming up which is causing a lot of confusion.
“Starting January 1, 2020, Medigap plans sold to new people with Medicare won’t be allowed to cover the Part B deductible. Because of this, Plans C and F will no longer be available to people new to Medicare starting on January 1, 2020. If you already have either of these 2 plans (or the high deductible version of Plan F) or are covered by one of these plans before January 1, 2020, you’ll be able to keep your plan. If you were eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020, but not yet enrolled, you may be able to buy one of these plans.” This quote is directly from the Medicare & You 2019 Official U.S. Government Medicare Handbook.
Choosing your Medicare Plan has never been easy. Plan F has been the most popular Supplement because it is the most comprehensive. It doesn’t cover dental, vision, or medicine, but it does cover doctors, tests, and hospitals. Also, medical care overseas is partially covered. So bottom line, pay the premium and don’t worry a lot about health care costs.
The argument has been that Plan F makes it too easy for people to go to the doctor without thinking twice about the cost. Other Medicare Supplement plans available to Seniors include A, B, D, G, K, L, M, and N. Plan G is the most comprehensive, covering the hospital deductible, Part A coinsurance, plus coverage for 365 additional days after Medicare benefits end. Plan G also covers the Part B Medical expense coinsurance (20%) as well as a Foreign Travel Emergency benefit and coverage for excess charges by doctors who do not accept Medicare assignment.
Something to consider in the next few months. Stay with Plan C or F, or look at one of the other Medigap plans available. Keep in mind you will have to qualify to change plans by answering health questions.
Nancy Brickley, Life and Health Insurance agent in Indiana since 1993. President, Nancy’s Insurance Service, 6110 Bluffton Rd., Fort Wayne, IN 46809. Phone 260-747-0033
