Medicare Supplements vs. Medicare Advantage
Medicare Supplements
Medicare supplements are the traditional and long standard means to supplement Medicare A & B. With a traditional Medicare Supplement there is a monthly premium then, depending on the plan selected, they cover all of what Medicare A & B doesn’t pay. There are no “hidden” expenses with a traditional Medicare Supplement. Any physician that accepts Medicare will accept ALL Medicare Supplement carriers.
The Hardeman Company represents Mutual of Omaha ( the oldest Med Supp Carrier), Anthem BCBSGA, and Humana.
Medicare Advantage
“Don’t be taken advantage by Medicare Advantage”.
Medicare Advantage Plans have their place and in certain circumstances they are the appropriate choice. The Hardeman Company represents the following Medicare Advantage Carriers: Anthem BCBSGA, Humana and Aetna.
While the TV commercials tout Medicare Advantage of being “FREE” , with free memberships and zero copays and zero premiums, there are substantial out of pocket expenses . While the premium may be free below are examples of medical expenses.
- There is a $6,800 Maximum Out of Pocket annually
- There is a $298 per day Inpatient cost from day 1-7
- There is a $184 Per day copay for skilled Nursing day 21-100
- There is a $335 outpatient surgery fee
- $180 Imaging fee
- Medicare Advantage is on an HMO platform and not all physicians accept a Medicare Advantage plan.
For a Male turning 65 and living in Chatham County Georgia for example, a Mutual of Omaha Plan G will cost $149.75 per month. For a female living in Chatham County the cost is $130.00. Therefore the annual premium for a male Plan G is $1,797.00 vs. the potential $6,800.00 out of pocket with a Medicare Advantage plan.
Please call my office at 912 691 2888 or 877 372 6548 to discuss which plan is better for you