LymeNet Flash: Which to choose? Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare

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»	LymeNet Flash » Questions and Discussion » Medical Questions » Which to choose? Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare

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Topic: Which to choose? Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare

springshowers
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 19863

posted

For those on Medicare.

Do you have Original Plan or did you choose an advantage plan from a provider?

If you have an advantage plan which one have you found to be the best?

I know they are different in each state but some are not and overall.. I wondered if anyone can share any experiences that might help me ??

Thanks so much.

Posts: 2747 | From Unites States Of America | Registered: Apr 2009 | IP: Logged |

hopeful4
LymeNet Contributor
Member # 8486

posted

I have Original Medicare. From my understanding with Advantage programs, you have to use the doctors affiliated with the Advantage program.

I want to be able to use my LLMD, and other doctors who accept Medicare. These doctors would not be covered by the Advantage plan.

When I first went on Medicare I needed some help making the selection of which program to go with. I contacted Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) HelpLine, and a person met with me and helped me identify which plan would work best. Each state has a SHIBA office, so you could check in with yours.

Posts: 873 | From WA | Registered: Dec 2005 | IP: Logged |

pryorka
LymeNet Contributor
Member # 13649

posted

Only go with Original!!! The advantage plans are privately ran and they will drop your coverage as they see fit (such as IV antibiotics). With original you choose a prescription drug plan that will cover your drugs and you're set. With "Advantage" at any time they see fit.. you'll be at a serious disadvantage.

Posts: 499 | From Indiana | Registered: Oct 2007 | IP: Logged |

Abxnomore
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 18936

posted

The above poster is correct. Stay with the original medicare only.

Posts: 5191 | From Lyme Zone | Registered: Jan 2009 | IP: Logged |

aliyalex
LymeNet Contributor
Member # 6976

posted

i just got medicare 2 weeks ago. i was never asked to choose between anything. did i miss something?

Posts: 830 | From Colorado | Registered: Mar 2005 | IP: Logged |

lymebytes
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 11830

posted

The best part D plan most without quantity limits on abx and other meds seems to be Medco and you keep Medicare.

The Advantage plan Anthem Blue Cross PPo is free and it looks good, but there are qty limits on many meds.

Also look out for plans like these that do not have Labcorp ont he preferred lab list and do not cover Igenex testing if needed.

--------------------
www.truthaboutlymedisease.com

Posts: 2003 | From endemic area | Registered: May 2007 | IP: Logged |

springshowers
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 19863

posted

Thank you thank you for the responses.

BCBS has plans only if your over 65.. .. that is what I was told..

I was looking around and thought I might be missing something by staying on the Original.. But. it think I will stick with it.

I have a secondary with BCBS.. but ..

Will look into prescription plans with Medicare...

I have been afraid to stop paying on my BCBS because I am afraid i will not get covered when I get well enough to be off medicare...

It has been 10 years plus now that I have said that but I have not lost faith I will get well...

Again..Thanks so much.. I so appreciate you responses..

This is what we are here for..

Thank you Thank you

Posts: 2747 | From Unites States Of America | Registered: Apr 2009 | IP: Logged |

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