Sorry in advance-- this post turned into a vent about the so-called "Advantage" plans.

The "Advantage" plans come with many disadvantages. The biggest one is that you have to commit to using the doctors and facilities in their network.

It is not Mayo Clinic's fault that you have chosen a network that does not include them. That's why your Advantage plan is less expensive-- it doesn't include all of the best facilities in the USA or even all of the ones in your area.

The "Advantage" plans are good only IF you are not sick now and IF you never, ever get really sick. Most of us at some point before we die will get really sick.

Personally, I think the "Advantage" plans should be outlawed.
Their marketing is slick. They don't tell outright lies, but they lie by omission, by not telling you that you can't go out of network, for example.
And the "certified insurance consultants" that you can call for advice are NOT impartial. They only represent certain companies in your area. They don't have to tell you all of your options. They lure you in with bells and whistles (free gym membership!), and then can deny payment for the tests that your doctor says you need.

You give the insurance company a lot of control over your health care when you sign up for an "Advantage" plan.

By federal law, every state government must provide free Medicare counseling. In my state, the county government is responsible. I called my local library, and they gave me the contact information. The county medicare counselors were very, very helpful, and they are completely impartial since they are not paid by the insurance companies.

Good luck and health to us all.

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