Obama #ed over the insurance industry
From what I understand, United Health is the umbrella company for so many insurance companies. For instance, I’m not positive, but I believe they own Humana. I need to do some research on the issue.
After looking at the graphs of their claim denial rate, I want to stay far away from the company.
I would go with original Medicare, plus a “supplemental” plan (also called a “Medi-gap” plan). Specifically, I would get the one called Plan G. The same plan is offered by many insurance companies, and you should probably pick the cheapest because
Aetna Medicare Advantage is very good.
There is very little difference between any of the insurers.
“Obamacare” requires them all to offer certain benefits.
Choosing one is like throwing a dart at a dart board.
Just pick one.
Well, I would change too but in general, denials are not as much of a problem in traditional Medicare as in general health insurance (younger people). It is fairly clear cut as to what is covered and what isn’t. And I don’t think the “medically necessary” disputes come up as much.
Now, in Medicare Advantage — which isn’t really Medicare — things might be different. Often, prior approvals are required and out-of-network denials happen.
I have United and so far they have been great.
I think they are all the same. One of the things Obamacare did was require coverage of certain things whether people want them or not.
I am flabbergasted that I took some money out of my retirement. It increased my income, so it increased the amount I will pay next year for Medicare. My Medicare rate doubled for next year.
I have Humana USAA Honor Giveback (PPO). They kick about $80 back to me each month on my Part B premium. I am satisfied with it. I also have VA insurance.
I have a guy I know who’s a Medicare broker.
I switch back between Humana and the VA, depending on my wants/needs. Each person has individual needs, different than everyone else’s.
Maybe find a Medicare broker.
We are very happy with UHC.
BlueCross/BlueShield Secondary
Didn’t the window close December 7th?
Window opens for 2026 in November 2025.
Aetna Medicare Advantage Plan
Talk to a Medicare agent. There a ton of them on You Tube. Some of the popular ones include Marvin Musick, Christopher Westfall, and Abt Insurance. Their services are free.
Blue Cross Blue Shield G supplemental + Medicare
After the relatively small deductible, they pay everything routine. Its a little more but so far I’ve had no hassles...thats a huge selling point to me.
Note: BCBS’s seem to be different in different parts of the country. Your results may vary. I have experience with Anthem BCBS and NCBCBS.
Find a local Medicare agent. They will come to your house and go over all the plans. This is a no charge service.
You’re being inundated with ads 24/7 that offer help in selecting a medicare supplement and you need FR help?. It’s also dependent on you’re area code so unless someone is in you’re zip code it’s irrelevant.
I am very pleased with Aetna.
I reluctantly just switched to an Advantage plan as my supplemental and part D got too high for my budget. I’m going with Viva Medicare Advantage which is ONLY available in Alabama. My sister has had it a few years with no issues and her health is much worse than mine so hopefully I’ll be ok. Viva is a part of UAB and as long as you use Baptist facilities, no copay except for hospital. I wish someone would make Medicare easier to deal with.
As a Medicare old timer, here’s what I have to say:
Medicare only pays 80 percent of your medical bills so the biggest issue is what to do about the remaining 20 percent.
1 On the surface, Medicare Advantage plans seem great. They cover more things than any of the other plans, and pay the whole bill, including the 80% part. they have a big downside, though, you must be treated by “In Plan” doctors and hospitals. You need to avoid travelling to or through any places that don’t have such facilities.
2 Most of the other plans are called “Medigap” plans - they cover the 20 percent gap. You have to look through those that are available in your area to se what looks best for you.
3 These don’t cover drugs. Some of the Advantage plans might. You usually need a separate plan to pay for any prescription medications. I say you “need” one because they are quite expensive, and they get significantly more expensive if you don’t start right away when you start Medicare and plan to get them later if you need expensive medications. My wife and I spend about a thousand dollars a year for drug coverage and have never used it. It’s actually cheaper to buy the drugs we use over the counter than pay the copays of the drug plans.
So, those are the biggies, good luck.