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Keys to a Successful Doctor's Appointment

Visiting Mayo Clinic | Last Active: Oct 4 10:56am | Replies (57)

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@virginiaj

You are correct. I have been in traditional Medicare with a supplement. I wanted to change from one supplement plan to another. (It was cheaper and offered the same benefits, as supplement plans are required to do). I needed “medical underwriting” to switch. Medical underwriting consisted of a non-medical person calling me on the phone, asking 12 questions. I was denied because I was taking one mg of prednisone, which was on his list of medications which led to denial. Couldn’t believe it. My agent said they don’t like unusual conditions??? The next year, I started sooner, pressed my case and changed supplements. I’m sure if I was in an Advantage plan, I would never have gotten into traditional Medicare. Advantage plans can change benefits, list of providers, etc. at any time. Traditional Medicare cannot.

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Replies to "You are correct. I have been in traditional Medicare with a supplement. I wanted to change..."

So interesting your reply! I wondered how it would be if one stayed with Traditional Medicare and just wanted to switch Medigap Supplemental plan.
Yes, Prednizone is a sign of something!!!! I was on it.
I have an "expensive" medigap plan but I am happy with it because it is no longer "expensive" with all my medical stuff. And I don't have to worry about my doctors "leaving" the Medigap plan or any change in benefits. I always tell people to not try to save money on their health insurance. You don't get healthier with age.