Question on understanding Medicare , Medigap , and Medicaid?

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

I was just put on disability (I am far from being a senior, though every webpage I turn to seems to be targeted at those over 65). I just received my Medicare Part A/B card. I also have a Medicaid card because my income is only around $700. Will I be charged the full amt. for Medicare since part of my income is SSI and resource based? Now I'm thinking about these A-L Medigap plans. Does Medicaid replace these, or do I still need to be thinking about Medigaps. What precisely at my income level with medicaid would I not be able to get covered and have the need for a Private company coverage for? I would like to say that I am perfectly happy with having all my doctors at the state hospital where any and all insurance and Medicaid is accepted and they also see indigent patients based on income. However only my psychiatrist is in a private practice, and I hope to be able to stay with him and he is enrolled in Medicare. I guess what I'm getting at with my situation does it sound like I need a Medigap policy, what will I be missing without it? Prescription drugs and Dental care are two things I can think of off the top of my head that I will need.
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First off, Medicaid will pick up your Medicare Part B premium. The income limit that Medicaid will no longer cover you will depend upon your state - each state has different requirements. Medicare Supplements (medigap) are generally not suitable for people on Medicaid because of the hefty premium and duplicate coverage. In many states a medigap policy will not be available to anyone under 65 or, if they are available, you may be limited to certain plans and to certain companies that offer those plans. Medicaid will require you to sign up for a prescription plan; if you don't they will sign you up on a plan of their choice automatically. They will pay the premium either way in most cases. Medicare, and Medicaid in most states, do not pay for routine dental. Medicare Advantage plans are available to people under 65 and on Medicare. There are Advantage plans are specially designed for people on both Medicare and Medicaid. These plans will have either a $0 premium or the premium will be covered by Medicaid. These plans also include drug coverage and many will have dental included. Your psychiatrist must accept these plans or you will not be able to see him so you'll need to make sure to get on a plan that he accepts. Visit a local agent that works with all of the major companies available in your area. The agent can help you select the plan that is best for you and can make sure that your doctor accepts the plan. There is no extra charge using an agent. If you are unable to find a plan that includes dental you can try a dental school where you can get good service for a reasonable cost. You can find the nearest dental school here: http://www.yourhealthplanadvisor.com/Den…
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