If you are approaching 65 and staying active, you may wonder about the best Medicare Plans for those in good health. And that is a good question. With the many options available, from original Medicare to Medigap and Medicare Advantage Plans, many Arizonans find themselves navigating unfamiliar waters during retirement.
So, to answer what are the best medicare plans for those in good health, we need to establish a few points.
First, how do you determine if you are in good health? Second, what are the options available? And finally, who can help you decide on the right plan?
If you want the answer to these questions, keep reading.
How To Determine If You're In Good Health
As more and more Arizonans practice greater self-care, the question of whether or not they are in good health may be yes. However, the person best qualified to determine how healthy you are is your doctor.
By reviewing the medical history of yourself and your blood relatives, in addition to regular check-ups and testing, your primary care physician is in the best position to assess your current health. If you have been putting off visiting the doctor for your annual exam, this is a great time and place to start.
Even if you are blessed with good health, you may still need certain medical services that Medicare covers. For example, if you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes or heart disease, you may need regular doctor visits and medication to manage your condition.
Once you and your doctor have agreed on your general fitness level, you can begin to select a Medicare plan for those in good health.
Options of Medicare Plans for Those in Good Health
Generally, there are three options available for those enrolling in Medicare.
Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
Original, or sometimes called traditional, Medicare is a federal health insurance program that gives health coverage to those aged 65 and over (and those with specific disabilities or illnesses).
Typically seniors can enroll in Part A, which covers hospital care and Part B, which covers doctor visits and other medical services.
Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage Plans may be the right option for seniors who still enjoy good health.
Private insurance companies offer Medicare Advantage plans and provide the same coverage as Original Medicare. However, they may also offer additional benefits, such as vision and dental coverage, and may have lower out-of-pocket costs.
Medicare Advantage plans may have network restrictions, meaning you may have to receive care from certain doctors or hospitals. You should also be aware that you may have to pay a premium for a Medicare Advantage plan.
Medigap Plans
If you're in good helth and don't need the additional coverage options Medicare Advantage Plans offer, you may want to consider a Medigap or Medicare supplement plan. As the name implies, Medigap plans fill the gaps in original Medicare.
Private insurance companies offer Medigap plans and can help cover out-of-pocket costs, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Related: The Top Six Most Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare
Tips For Finding The Best Medicare Plan For Those In Good Health
When looking for the best Medicare plans for those in good health, consider each plan's coverage, cost, and network restrictions. Here are a fw tips to help you find the best plan for you:
Consider Your Medical Needs
Consider both your current and future medical needs when choosing a plan. The only thing worse than paying good money for benefits you don't need is needing benefits you don't have because you did not plan ahead.
Compare Plans
Once you know your medical needs, spend time looking at the options available for each plan. Consider the cost and coverage of each plan, as well as the network restrictions and out-of-pocket costs associated with each.
There are a couple of ways to do this. First, use the Medicare Plan Finder tool on Medicare.gov. The second, and more about this below, is to work with a local, independent Medicare broker.
Review Your Options Annually
Review your options each year during the annual open enrollment period. Doing so will ensure you have the best plan for your needs from year to year.
The Best Medicare Plans for Those in Good Health Are Easy to Find - If You Know Who to Ask
Finding the best Medicare plans for those in good health may seem daunting. However, you can find the best plan for your needs with the right resources and guidance.
At Southwest Health Insurnace Experts, we have been helping Arizona seniors navigate the world of Medicare and Medicare supplement plans since 1981. And as independent Medicare brokers, we are not tied to any one insurance company to find you the best plan. We have established relationships with many insurers to ensure you get what is suitable for you rather than us.
And the best part is that our help is completely free of charge. What are you waiting for?