For those of you who think Medicare for all is a great idea, try negotiating the current Medicare labyrinth. Coming into another open enrollment period, there are (of course) changes. But unlike Obama's untruthful promises, if you like your Medicare plan you are able to keep it and most of the time won't need to do anything during this period. You should receive a letter or communication from your advantage plan. It still wouldn't hurt to compare plans each year though.
First of all, get the Official U.S. Government Medicare Handbook, it will explain the differences between original Medicare and Medicare Advantage (part C). In the back it lists providers with a breakdown of their plan. But even if you keep your current plan make sure you check changes. Apparently mine offered preventative dental at a low cost this year but I hadn't noticed! I'll jump in and take advantage of it before the end of the year.
I also noticed that I can use an online company to order things like bandages and sun screen of up to $30 a quarter at no charge next year.
Call Medicare for health information and counseling 800-252-9240 (for Texas).
Also you need to know the difference between HMOs and PPOs. The main difference I have found is that an HMO gives you less choice, requires you to have a referral from your GP before you can get specialized care. (not much different from the way the National Health Service in England works)
Take a look at Nerd Wallet for tips on choosing healthcare insurance
Some insurance companies offer seminars locally which are worth taking advantage of and give you a chance to ask questions before making a choice. (Keep a notebook and write down any questions or concerns beforehand)
The way I see it health coverage for everyone in the U.S. has been a long time coming and I would love to see a competent program to cover everyone but with the option for additional private supplemental insurance. Expanding Medicare just seems to be another option for Medicare fraud. The American Greed program has many episodes covering fraud. One year over $52 billion was uncovered in Medicare fraud!
Which brings me to another point, keep a tight hold on your Medicare card and number and never give it or your social security number out at places like health fairs (usually offering DNA testing) which is where a lot of fraud takes place. And if you know of a scam, report it to Medicare Fraud.
