Does Medicare + Choice Replace Original Medicare?

Quick and easy explanation of Medicare + versus Original Medicare.

Medicare Plus programs are not a replacement for original Medicare. Medicare Plus programs were set up to be additional programs meant to help people gain more benefits that Original Medicare does not cover.

Original Medicare Coverage

Medicare is ran by a division of the Health and Human Services Department of the US Government. Medicare covers people who have reached the age of 65 or have certain disabilities or diseases. Original Medicare does not cover all medical expenses. Original Medicare only covers inpatient care in hospitals, doctor services, and some outpatient procedures. Vision, dental and prescription coverages are not offered through Original Medicare. Your premium is based on your income while you were working. You are repsonsible for a co-pay, this is the part of expenses that Medicare does not pay.

Medicare Plus Coverage

Medicare Plus plans are also called Medicare Advantage Plans. Medicare Plus plans are plans that are approved by Medicare and ran by private insurance companies. These Medicare Plus plans cover the medical expenses that Original Medicare does not such as vision, dental and prescription coverage. Exact benefits vary depending on the company and plan you choose for your coverage. Premiums also vary according to the plan and company you choose. Some Medicare Plus plans do not charge you a premium but use the premium you pay to Original Medicare to cover their charges for the policy.

Original Medicare and Medicare Plus Together

Medicare Plus plans are not meant to replace Original Medicare. They were designed to provide extra coverage and reduce out of pocket expenses. You are still enrolled in Original Medicare when you sign up for a Medicare Plus plan. When you incur medical expenses, Original Medicare pays a portion of the expenses and Medicare Plus normally pays the remainder. Having a Medicare Plus plan can help you to have better medical care by reducing your out of pocket expenses, but it is not a replacement for Original Medicare.

Related posts

1. What Are My Main Choices For Getting Medicare Coverage?
2. What Is Medicare Supplement Plan C?
3. Do I Have Drug Coverage Through My Medicare Supplemental Plan?
4. How Can Seniors Get An Inexpensive Medicare Supplement Plan?
5. How Is The Amount I Have To Pay For Medicare Decided?

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