Why seniors should choose Traditional Medicare Supplements over a Medicare Advantage Plan

As many of you know Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield has canceled its Medicare Advantage Plan in the state of Virginia leaving over 28,000 seniors with out Health Care. The same thing happened with Optima last year. Starting to notice a trend? Due to all the harsh cuts from the government that these Advantage plans have received they just can no longer afford stay in the market. Slowly over the last few years these plans have been coming to their demise. In my personal opinion, I do not see them lasting but a few more years before they are totally removed from the Medicare Market.

Traditional Medicare Supplements have been around since the beginning of Medicare, and they are not going ANYWHERE anytime soon! Yes they are slightly more expensive but they have tremendous benefits compared to these Advantage Plans.

- All plans are the same no matter which Insurance Company you choose to purchase them from. The ONLY difference you will find is in the price. Yes, different companies charge different prices for the SAME EXACT plans. That is why you need a well educated Medicare Advisor/Broker to help you find the best plan for you in your state and zip code.

- Depending on which Medicare Plan you choose, you get different benefits. I recommend Plan F because you pay only your monthly premium and nothing else. No Dr. copay's, no Part B deductible, no out of pocket costs what so ever except that monthly premium. If you can afford Plan F it is the way to go!

- No Dr. at anytime, anywhere in the United States can deny seeing you for any reason if you have a Traditional Medicare Supplement. If you have an Advantage plan, your Dr. can see you this week and choose to deny your coverage next week.

- You can choose to switch your Medicare Supplement at any time you would like for any reason as long as your health still allows and you qualify. With the Advantage plans you can ONLY CHANGE ONCE A YEAR!

So to recap in our personal, professional opinion if you were my parents or grandparents I would with out doubt recommend going with a Traditional Medicare Supplement and choose Plan F.

You can find a definition to any of the terms in this post in our free informative Glossary and feel free to leave comments, we love to hear what you have to say!