Have Original Medicare? Signs You May Need A Medicare Supplement Plan
If you meet certain qualifications you automatically become eligible for Original Medicare. You may be aged 65 or older, be disabled, or have end-stage renal disease (ESRD.) Each of these conditions places you in a position where you can receive Original Medicare. However, Original Medicare typically only covers hospitalization and listed medical protections. This insurance might not be sufficient enough to meet your needs. Read through the information below so you can begin to determine if you should take out a Medicare supplement plan.
Choose Your Own Providers With A Medicare Supplement Plan
Some people spend several months out of each year living in a different state. While you are away from your hometown, you may need to see a doctor for routine or emergency services. When you're covered by Original Medicare, you are typically limited when it comes to seeing a physician. If you're not able to get a referral for an in-network medical professional, you're looking at either being denied assistance or having to pay a huge sum out of your own pocket to receive the care you need.
Medicare supplement plans generally don't operate on a network-basis. You're free to see any doctor who will accept your plan. This is not only great for travel purposes, but it also helps when you want to visit with a specialist who may not be in the same network as your primary care physician (PCP.) You can make the appointment with your chosen specialist and attend the meetup without waiting for the green light from your PCP.
You Have Minor Health Issues That Could Become Major
Because you are only covered by Original Medicare, you probably pay a Part B co-pay when you go in to see your doctor for a checkup. Paying a small co-pay may not be distressing.
However, what if your medical issue takes a turn for the worse? Are you in a financial position to pay for multiple co-pays if you must start seeing your doctor much more than you do right now? Getting a supplement plan while you are still in the initial stages of an ailment can be highly beneficial. You may be able to find a plan that allows you to see your doctor more frequently without an increase in your copays.
Obtaining a Medicare supplement is great when you're after peace of mind. Talk with your insurance agent about how you can get your supplement plan started as soon as possible.