Thanksgiving approaches. It is a time for family to gather, share stories and dine on scrumptious dishes. I’ve been told, because of my recent medical condition, that I won’t see “old fashion stuffing” and there will be limited desserts. Really?
I have been trying to understand medical insurance options available to any U.S. citizen over the age of 65. Age 65 triggers Medicare elgibility. The problem is that most doctors and hospitals dislike Medicare because it does not pay well. Ask Grasshopper No.1! Her eye vision company will not accept Medicare payments because “they lose money”.
So, I have Medicare A&B (Hospital & Doctors), which nobody in healthcare wants. Then I have a Supplement insurance complementing the Medicare that nobody wants. None of the insurance covers drugs, so we have a Medicare Rx insurance to cover drugs, except when drug costs exceed $3000 (approximate). I pay monthly for Medicare. I pay quarterly for Supplement insurance. Drug insurance costs money. Bear in mind that eye glasses, dentists and hearing issues are not covered.
You get the idea. Insurance costs for elderly are expensive and limited in coverage. I would like to change to cheaper alternatives, but with all the uncertainty surrounding Obamacare, it would be a risky venture. So, I will not change anything this year. Besides, this year I have incurred major medical expenses and changing our medical programs could cause major confusion.
And so it goes. As you plan your retirements, medical expectations could play a major role. Costs of medical insurance are only going to increase.
It is a good thing that I didn’t do my “rant” on Long Care Disability insurance with all it’s special rules and complications.
My wish for you this Thanksgiving is that you share it with family and friends and that it is safe. It is a time to reflect on all our blessings.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Gobble, Gobble!
Love, Dad