You’ve got Original Medicare but the question is, is that all you need? The answer is it depends. What Medicare Advantage or Part C is is a health plan that is approved by Medicare that provides your Medicare services through a private insurance company. At the minimum, that plan must provide Medicare services that fall under Part A and B. The good thing about the plans in Hawaii is that they provide additional benefits above and beyond what Medicare covers and most plans even include Part D for your medications.
Think of it as an all in one plan that closely mimics the type of insurance that you had when you were working. You show one card for your doctors visits, hospital stays, and even when you pick up your medicine. There are different types of plans available but to keep things simple for the people of Hawaii, you have to consider if you want an HMO or PPO. HMO stands for Health Maintenance Organization which means that there is a network that you have stay within. If you received services outside of the network, you may be responsible for all of the costs. PPO stands for Preferred Provider Organization. PPOs have a network like an HMO but you have the freedom to receive service from an out of network provider with higher costs compared to an in network provider.
The other great benefit from a Medicare Advantage plan is that the insurance company is actively managing your care. Think of it as an extra set of eyes that are ensuring that you are receiving proper healthcare. Medicare Advantage plans may also include benefits that is not covered by Original Medicare such as routine vision, eyewear, dental, and much more.
All of these factors should be taken into consideration when choosing a plan. The great thing about the internet is that there’s a ton of information available at your fingertips. The value that we provide as a local agent is that we are always available to assist you. When you sign up online or maybe when you call a 1-800 number, you will never talk to that person again. Our agents at Senior Benefits Consultants are local and service the communities we live in. We value the relationships that are created and are always available to help.