You're probably already familiar with Original Medicare, especially if you’re nearing the age of 65 and getting ready to enroll. You may not be aware, though, that there are some gaps in Original Medicare’s coverage, which lead many people to either add a Medicare Supplement Plan or choose a Medicare Advantage Plan. Medicare Advantage Plans,…

Mutual of Omaha Plans To Sell Medicare Advantage Plans in 2019
In 2019, Mutual of Omaha, an Omaha-based insurer will begin selling Medicare Advantage plans with prescription drug coverage. They have partnered up with Lumeris, a St. Louis company that will handle the health provider networks, and healthcare solutions. The Kaiser Family Foundation recorded that one in three Medicare recipients are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage…

Planning Your Medicare Costs During Retirement
Many Americans are turning 65 every day, and can be overwhelmed with the retirement costs to come, especially when unprepared. It is important to plan for retirement and costs for Medicare. Most people underestimate the expenses during retirement. It is important to research medical costs and plan accordingly. [caption id="attachment_1521" align="alignleft" width="300"] As you get…

Costly Medicare Mistakes to Avoid
Medicare covers thousands of seniors, and many of them are unaware of mistakes that can lead them to lose more money. It is important for retirees who are on a fixed income to try and save as much as possible. Not paying attention to a couple of key aspects of your Medicare policy can cost…

Medicare “Step Therapy” To Lower Drug Costs
Prescription medication can be very expensive, and there is no way around it because it is necessary. However, Medicare has a way to make medication more affordable. The step therapy program allows Medicare to negotiate lower prices and help Medicare beneficiaries save money by offering cheaper medication options. How Does Step Therapy Work? Step therapy…

Should You Use A Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA)?
Medicare Savings Account (MSA) is a tax-favored savings account for seniors 65 and older. It is a special type of Medicare Advantage plan. Just like other types of Medicare Advantage plans, MSAs are offered by Medicare-approved private insurance companies. These accounts accrue interest and are tax-free, allowing beneficiaries tax-free withdrawals for medical costs. [caption id="attachment_1375"…

Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage? Choose Wisely.
When you turn 65, there are so many new choices when it comes to health insurance. You might feel overwhelmed and unsure about how to pick a plan. Once you turn 65 you are eligible for government Medicare insurance, Medicare supplement plans, and Medicare advantage plans. After enrolling in the government Medicare program, you must…

Medicare Advantage Plans Have A $0 Premium For Most
When it is time to consider Medicare, usually around the time you turn 65 years old, it would be wise to take a look at different Medicare Advantage plans. Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, usually offer more benefits than Original Medicare for a lower cost. About one-third of Medicare beneficiaries have…

Updated Medicare Advantage Guidelines
There are specific times of the year when you can enroll, disenroll, or switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan, also called Part C or MA Plans. These plans are sold by private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare. If you miss these enrollment periods, it may be hard to make changes to your coverage,…

Republican Tax Bill Cuts 25 Billion From Medicare
The GOP tax bill that the Republicans have been working on, can lead to major cuts in Medicare funding and spending in 2018. The bill is estimated to cut $25 billion from Medicare starting 2018, and resulting in $400 billion over the next ten years. The Congressional Office has estimated a $1.5 trillion deficit to…

Five Ways To Get Better Health Plans At Lower Costs
Health insurance premiums and deductibles can become costly, and continuously go u p every year depending on the plan. There are ways to help ease the burden of a high premium/deductible plan that is cost-effective while receiving the medical services you need. Compare Plans More than 90% of people end up not looking into their…

Ways To Get The Most Out of Your Medicare Budget
Medicare is a vital program for seniors when they turn 65. Medicare Part A and Part B covers doctor visits, hospitalization, lab tests, and more. However, since Medicare only covers a portion of these costs, the rest, which is typically 20%, is out of pocket. The costs can be overwhelming at times for a retired…

Changes To Medicare Advantage in 2018
Medicare Advantage Plans have become very popular over the years, and like other insurance plans, changes occur every year. The most common changes are the list of drugs that are covered, how much your insurance company charges for them, premiums, and the percentage the plan pays towards your medical expenses. Changes can leave customers confused…