If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan (Medicare HMO, PPO or PFFS)

You most likely have an advantage plan if you use one card for Doctor visits, Hospital visits and Pharmacy. You can switch from and to any type of Medicare advantage plan you wish. For example, if you have United Healthcare’s Medicare Complete (HMO) or Cigna Medicare Select RX (HMO) and you feel another plan may better suit your needs, you can switch. There is only one medical question. Do you have end stage renal disease (kidney disease)? Other than that there are no pre-existing condition limitations. Better yet, if you have scheduled care, the new carrier will reach out with their continuation of care team and make sure you have no problems getting the care you need, even if the care is scheduled outside of their network. Resources: Coverage Choices at Medicare.gov or www.123EasyMedicare.com If you have a Medicare Supplement Plan (Medigap plans A,B,C,D,E,F,F*,G,K,L,M,N) You most likely have a Medigap plan if you use three cards for Doctor visits, Hospital visits and Pharmacy. The three cards would include: the Medicare card with parts A&B, the Medigap card, and a separate Medicare Part D card for prescriptions. With the Medigap plan, you can switch plans at any time as long as your health will allow. You do not need to wait if you become dissatisfied with your current coverage. Most Medigap carriers have a series of medical questions which must be satisfied in order to apply for coverage. If your health allows, select any plan that meets your needs. Resources: Choosing a Medigap Policy at Medicare.gov or www.123EasyMedicare.com

(Previous published in the September 2015 Edition of the American Retirement Advisor Newsletter)