Have questions about Medicare Health Plans? The Annual Election Period ends Dec 7th!

Many people report they are confused about Medicare Health Plans - so instead of looking at newer more economical options, they tend to continue what they have.

As a step to help understand the two typse of Medicare Health Plans the first page on this site provides some highlights. MedicareHealthPlansSoutheasternCT site.

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) to enroll in or change a Medicare Advantage Plans - the first type ends Dec. 7th. This page has some details on how they work:

• Medicare Advantage options available in Southeastern CT?

The second type is a Medicare Supplement. They are regulated by the state of CT and can generally be changed at any time. This page has some details on how they work:

• Medicare Supplements approved in CT?

People who are enrolled in a Medicare Supplement also are enrolled in a Prescription Drug Plan. The are also controlled at the federal level and changes are limited to the AEP

The pages on Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Supplements do not have specific information on any of the plans so call (860) 739-0005 for details!.


John C Parker, RHU, LTCP

Looking for the cost of an upcoming procedure?

The cost of a medical procedure can vary considerably between providers and in different facilities. Even those in the same general area!

Most medical plan's today have a high deductible followed by cost sharing thus when any non-emergency treatment is suggested it's important to look at the cost so you can understand what your share might be.

A great place to look for proposed procedure costs is with Fair Health. When on the site the first step is to select:
— the green medical cost button

— then the in-network button (more economical )

— then your zip code

— then the blue button to find and select the type of medical situation you are interested in

You will see a list of in-network and out of network costs.

Note: When only a few providers are shown select one and tell your MD — I found it would cost $_____ for the ______ and would like to know what your cost will be?

A look at a Medicare Advantage plan focused on the individual

I previously posted about changes taking place with some Medicare Health Plans to coordinate an individual's medical treatment and prescriptions. Today in many situations the treatments & tests from the Primary Care Physician (PCP), Specialists they are seeing, and the health insurance company are not coordinated. This means extra time is required by the person and often confusion about what is going on. 

Pleased today to share a quick video from CarePartners of Connecticut. The company, created by Tufts Health Plan in the Boston area and Hartford Healthcare, is offering plans for Jan. 1, 2019. The video focuses on the special attention an individual receives and the advantages, such as less stress and better outcomes, they gain from what is called their "Circle of Care".

John C Parker, RHU, LTCP

Medicare Advantage plans - stepping slowly toward Patient Centered care

The world of going to a Doctor for a check-up or to receive treatment is changing - finally!

What does that mean? 

● Individuals enrolled in Medicare now have the opportunity to participate in certain Medicare Advantage plans which are changing the focus of the relationship a person has with their Doctor.

● When this happens the person become more involved in their treatment and the outcomes are better.

This Next Avenue article is not about what is going on with plans here in CT but I want to share it because it does a good job explaining patient centered care.

One point - of interest to me - the article emphasizes talking to your Doctor about this.

There is a new Medicare Advantage plan in CT, and available in New London County, which is 100% focused on this approach.


John C Parker, RHU, LTCP