by Jayson Cohen, American Legacy Solutions.
You may have heard about new legislation affecting Plan F and C. It’s called the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015 (MACRA) in the following article we will discuss some key point that you need to know.
FACT: Consumers currently enrolled or looking to enroll in Plan F prior to January 1, 2020 will have complete flexibility in their cover. They will be able to choose any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare patients.
FACT: Anyone Eligible for Medicare Part A before January 1, 2020, can enroll in Plans F or C even after 2020 and can keep their plan as long as they choose.
FACT: Anyone who becomes eligible for Medicare Part A on or after January 1, 2020, will not be able to purchase a Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans F or C. Most Medicare Supplement Insurance companies currently offering F will start to offer Plan G, as some already do.
FACT: Consumers that are already enrolled in Plan F or C don’t need to take any action. Plans F and C will still be available for consumers eligible to purchase then in 2020 and beyond.
FACT: The plan F will you the freedom to travel. The plan goes with you when you travel anywhere in the U.S. and pays a benefit if you receive emergency medical services outside of the U.S. [up to plan limits]
As the Plan F is currently the most comprehensive Medicare Supplement/Medi-gap plan on the market, make sure that you do not allow an agent to talk you out of your rights under the Reauthorization Act of 2015. If you like your coverage now or want the ability to see any doctor that accepts Medicare, anywhere in the country with no referrals or pre-authorizations, then make sure you keep the plan that has worked for many years. If you are new to Medicare and want to get the plan F then take a look at the companies in your area that are currently offering them.
As some companies will offer small fringe benefits to entice enrollment, the heart of the plan (how it pays your bills) is the same from company to company. They only difference you will find between companies is price and customer service. Take some time and make sure you compare all plans on the market to find the best for you and your family.
