Medicare Plans in Alabama

Trying to make sense of Medicare options for seniors in Alabama can initially be a nightmare. There are so many different plans to choose from and it is hard to know where to start. Luckily if you learn the basics first, you’ll see that there are really only two main types of Medicare coverage people can sign up for. You can either keep your Original Medicare and add an Alabama Medicare supplement, or you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan.

In this article, we will go over each type of Medicare plan, so you can understand the differences in how they work.

Alabama Medicare Supplements

Medicare supplement plans are standardized by the United States government. There are 10 plans offered as supplements. These plans cover gap in the expenses you face after Medicare reimbursement. Any doctor that takes Medicare will automatically take Medicare supplements as well.

While you sign up in your home state you can use your supplement insurance in any state in the union. Just hand your provider your Medicare card and supplement card, and you’ll be all set.

Of the ten different plans, there are three that the majority of seniors sign up for. Plan F is the most comprehensive and therefore is the most popular. Everything from doctor visits to hospital stays and medical equipment are fully covered by this program. You can choose a Plan F supplement that provides first dollar coverage, or you can sign up for a high deductible option.

The high deductible comes with a lower monthly premium but more expenditures on the back end when you use your coverage.

Plan G is also very popular. This plan is identical to Plan F other than the fact that you need to pay the Part B deductible. This deductible cost will be $183/year dollars in 2017 and 2018. That comes directly out of your pocket, but you only have to satisfy the deductible once per calendar year.

Plan N is similar to Plan G but in addition to the Part B deductible, you are also liable to pay Medicare Part B excess charges and some copays. These charges are currently $20 for some office visits and $50 dollars if you go to the emergency room and do not end up being admitted to the hospital.

Alabama Medicare Advantage Plans

Alabama Medicare Advantage plans are purchased through private insurance companies or through Medicare insurance brokers. Your premiums will be usually be cheaper than what you would pay for a Medicare supplement, and instead you will pay copay for your medical services as you go along. Advantage plans generally have networks, so it is important to find out if your doctor accepts the plan before you enroll.

Some Medicare Advantage plans come with a Part D Medicare prescription drug plan rolled into the coverage. This means you will be able to use your plan at your local pharmacy as well as your doctor's office.

If you find it confusing to figure out which plan is best for you, contact us for help. We are one of the industry leaders in helping seniors sign up for the right Medicare plan. You get the benefit of having a professional on your side to help guide you through the bureaucracy. Please give us a call today and secure your Medicare healthcare coverage.