Choosing a Medicare supplemental insurance plan can be overwhelming for many Medicare-eligible citizens. Although most plans offer basic services, such as doctor visits and emergency care, plans may vary on cost, providers, extra benefits, convenience and quality. Comparing Medicare supplemental insurance plans beforehand will save you time, effort and finances.
Instructions
1. Compare plan and premium costs. Determine plan premiums, coinsurance and co-payments. Investigate whether the Medicare supplemental insurance plan charges additional fees if you visit doctors outside of your plan.
2. Compare plan doctors, hospitals and specialists. Determine if your current doctor or hospital participates in the Medicare supplemental insurance plan you are considering.
3. Compare extra benefits. Does the plan offer dental, vision and prescription coverage? Look for extra benefits, such as wellness programs, smoking cessation, weight loss programs and any other benefits that interest you.
4. Compare level of convenience. Contact the Medicare supplemental insurance plan to inquire about the location and operating hours of your plan doctor. Ask if the plan offers a medical advice hotline.
5. Compare plan quality. Ask your plan if it is accredited. Some organizations that provide accreditation for Medicare supplemental insurance plans include the National Committee for Quality Assurance, the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations and the American Accreditation Healthcare Commission. Does the plan have a quality assurance program? Ask the plan to view satisfaction surveys from its plan members.
Tags: Medicare supplemental, supplemental insurance, insurance plan, Medicare supplemental insurance, supplemental insurance plan, Compare plan