Choosing a Medicare Plan - Medicare
As you get closer to Medicare eligibility, it's important to take stock of your individual health needs. While Original Medicare is designed to cover about 80% of your medical expenses, you may need additional coverage to cover the rest.
For some, a Medicare Advantage plan that provides all-in-one medical and prescription drug coverage is the best fit, while others may prefer a Prescription Drug plan (Part D) and a Medicare Supplement policy to fill the gaps that Original Medicare doesn't cover.
Questions to ask before you decide on a Medicare Plan
- What Medicare plans do your current doctors and specialists accept?
- Are your doctors and specialists in the plan's network?
- Will you need referrals to see specialists?
- Is there a yearly cap on your out-of-pocket costs?
- If you travel, will a plan cover you when you're out of state?
- Does the plan's drug list include your prescription drugs?
Additional Factors to Keep in Mind
- Creditable Coverage: If you have drug coverage through an employer or union that's considered "creditable," you may not need Part D right away.
- Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA): Higher-income individuals may pay an additional amount for Part B and Part D coverage.
- Budgeting Tools: Some plans offer payment options to spread out prescription costs over the year.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama offers Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C), Prescription Drug Plans (Part D) and Medicare Supplement plans. We can help you understand your options and find coverage that fits your needs. Learn more and compare our plans here.
Have questions about Medicare and want to talk to a local representative? Contact us here.
Blue Advantage® is a PPO and BlueRx℠ is a PDP with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Blue Advantage (PPO) and BlueRx (PDP) depends on contract renewal. This is a solicitation of insurance. Contact may be made by an issuer or insurance producer. C Plus℠ is a Medicare Select Plan and is a private insurance plan regulated by the Alabama Department of Insurance. It is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Blue Advantage (PPO) and BlueRx (PDP) are provided by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
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