The Rant Continues

[judy]

I called the drug company, my union, and some other Human Resource place involved with the Dept of Ed retirees re Medicare. I also went to my doctor, who told me that next time I come in, he will have to do a physical, and some other stuff. He told me not to worry about anything. They know what has to be done, and will do it.

WOW!!! So far, so good! I got this thick booklet about Medicare, which I definitely don't want to read. I will look through it though, just so that I am familiar with what I can expect and what I am entitled to.

Now, to wait for the dental insurance check!!!

[Lindsey]

Wow I can't believe all the stuff you need to go through!!!

[DianaB]

I'm dreading dealing with all of this whenever it comes my turn!! At least I'll know to turn to you guys because you'll have it ALL figured out by the time I need the info!!

[judy]

You are right Diana. We can walk you right through it. Let's just hope we still have Medicare!

[Janet]

You'll have to explain it to me at the same time as Diana. I'm really dreading trying to understand all that stuff.

[gja1000]

We've had Medicare since 2005 - or I should say Gary has had Medicare since 2005. It has been fine, we've not had any problems at all with it. However, you MUST have a secondary policy that covers what Medicare doesn't because Medicare only pays 80% of most things. Gary had open heart surgery and we would have been out thousands of dollars if we'd had to pay 20% of the bill. Also you need a secondary insurance for the RX benefits. Medicare's plan D for prescriptions does not cover everything (but the new health care bill does increase the RX benefits so that is good). At least it is better than nothing though. Prior to Medicare part D, there were no prescription benefits with Medicare and as you all well know, prescriptions can cost hundreds of dollars per month if you don't have insurance.

Medicare part A is the physician coverage and Medicare part B is the hospital care. You have to pay a premium for Part B, but it is worth it. Judy, you will get that book every year. I just throw them in a drawer.

[judy]

Thanks, Gayle! I have GHI as my secondary insurance, and have part D already. I have to pay for it, from my SS check, but it seems that the teachers' union reimburses us every year for the cost. I think I will get 75% for generic prescriptions. I don't know what percentage I pay now, so I will see. I only take one name brand - Nexium. If there is a generic, I'll switch.

I am very, very fortunate to have this coverage. The teachers' union is wonderful to us. We are covered for life! I loved teaching, but having taken care of all those people's children for so many years, I think it is fair that their taxes take care of me now! All of these anti-unionists can go screw themselves as far as I am concerned! I would like to see any one of them teach a class of 30 teenagers, and do it well.