With a well-picked medical insurance policy, your out-of-pocket medical expenses should be at a minimum. However, a lot of insurance enrollees overlook important policy options and guidelines that end up costing them more money. If you struggle to make ends meet because your medical costs are too high despite insurance, it may be time for a bit of guidance. Here on our blog, we cover the bases to help people just like you get the most from their medical insurance policy. We discuss things like finding the most affordable in-network providers, keeping co-pay costs as low as possible, and how to save on prescriptions.
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Understanding Different Medicare Policies
June Robertson
If you qualify for Medicare, you may be wondering which policy is right for you. While many people stick with Original Medicare, there are other options that offer more coverage. If you would like to know more, keep reading.
Original Medicare
Original Medicare includes Parts A and B. Part A mostly covers hospital stays or skilled nursing facilities. As a result, you won't use it often, and the premium is much lower than Part B. Part B covers most of your average medical care, including:
- Doctor visits
- Preventative care
- Clinical research
- Ambulance services
- Inpatient and outpatient mental health
- Durable medical equipment
Original Medicare does not typically include prescription drug medications, but you can purchase Medicare Part D, which does provide prescription coverage. As with most insurance plans, you will need to choose a doctor who accepts Medicare.
You must meet strict requirements to qualify for Medicare, including your age. If you do qualify, you can purchase a policy directly from the government.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage is a more robust alternative, and you'll need to purchase the policy from a Medicare-approved private insurance carrier. As a result, you can find plans that vary in coverage and premiums.
Medicare Advantage also includes Parts A and B, but it also bundles in Part D, so you will not need to purchase an extra policy for prescription medication coverage. One of the leading benefits of Medicare Advantage is the additional coverage. Many plans also offer services for hearing, vision, and wellness.
Medigap
Medigap policies are also provided by Medicare-approved private insurance carriers. However, you cannot purchase a Medigap and Medicare Advantage policy. Instead, Medigap is extra coverage to fill in the gaps in Original Medicare. This makes it a cheaper alternative than Medicare Advantage, however, it doesn't usually include heating and vision.
There are multiple Medigap policies, so finding the right one for you may take time. Naturally, the higher the premium, the more coverage. Ultimately, however, Medigap policies are designed to reduce your out-of-pocket medical expenses. For this reason, Medigap policies may cover:
- Part A coinsurance/copayment
- Part B coinsurance/copayment
- Blood
- Part A deductible
- Part B deductible
Medicare is a great way to pay for your medical expenses, but there are many options from which to choose. Both Medicare Advantage and Medigap provide a few extra perks. If you would like to know more about Medicare insurance plan options, or if you want a quote on a policy, contact an insurance carrier today.
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