John Grobe Federal Career Experts Wed May 28, 2008 8:14 AM
Since I submitted this article, OPM announced that they were considering FEHB plans for Medicare eligible federal retirees. They did not go into detail, but NARFE immediately came out against such plans.
Re: OPM looks at plans for Medicare eligible retirees
RETIRED USPS Wed May 28, 2008 12:08 PM
John, would you elaborate on the statement.. it doesn't make sense to me...
"Since I submitted this article, OPM announced that they were considering FEHB plans for Medicare eligible federal retirees. They did not go into detail, but NARFE immediately came out against such plans."
Tricare for Life
HR SPecialist Army Wed May 28, 2008 8:17 AM
I will be retiring next year and will be both Federal Retiree and Military Retiree Dependent. I have been researching this issue to try to become familiar with the coverage issues. Your article was very helpful, but you also need to add that for the Tricare for Life issue, many physicians don't take Medicare or Tricare for Life. Where I live, I cannot get OB/GYN care without my FEHB. You have to call around and ask and unfortunately many are not taking it. Because of that, I am not going to suspend my FEHB but continue it. However, it seems ridulous that my husband spent over 20 years in the Military and we have trouble finding medical care that will honor both Medicare and Tri Care. It is another one of those "benefits" that they have reduced to nothing for military retirees.
Re: Tricare for Life
Retired US Military DoD Mon Oct 19, 2009 5:46 PM
How does TRICARE FOR LIFE work in the mix of MEDCARE and FEHB if eligible for all three? The concern expressed by many is MEDCARE and TRICARE are subject to governmental changes vice private health care under FEHB. More health providers are denying both MEDCARE and TRICARE.
Thanks
Medicare Part B
Accountant DoN Wed May 28, 2008 8:25 AM
The only other thing not mentioned is what should the federal worker who is still employed in the federal govt. do when he turns 65. I've been told that since I currently am covered by BC/BS Standard, I shouldn't enroll in Medicare Part B until I retire. I've also been told that there is no penalty for delayed enrollment if still employed. What I WAS told to sign up for (when I turned 65) was Medicare Part A, as this coverage is 'free' to me, as a federal employee. Was this guidance correct??
Re: Medicare Part B
Claims representative social security adm Wed May 28, 2008 11:38 PM
The answer is "yes". If a person is still working at age 65 and has group health insurance through their employer, they do not need to file for Part B. They do need to file for Part B (and Part D if needed) within 8 months of retirement. There will be no penalty of premiums. Part B starts immediately at the base rate at the time. This is true if you turn age 65, your spouse is actively employed and you are covered on the spouses record. You can file for Part B when your spouse retires, it goes into effect immediately at the base rate at that time. The question, as a CSRS, employee, do I ever need part B? FEHB plans are pretty hard to understand!
coordination of benefits: a question
Program Leader SSA Wed May 28, 2008 8:35 AM
I still am not clear as to whether BCBS will or will not pay the portion of medical bills that Medicare Part B would have paid if a retiree could have elected Part B but did not. My experience is that an insurance that considers itself secondary to Medicare Part B does so whether or not one has Part B. Let's say BCBS would pay x amount and Medicare Part B would pay y amount. If a retireee eligible for Part B doesn't have Part B, BCBS only pays (x-y), not x. Is that true or not?
Re: coordination of benefits: a question
Retired NASA Thu May 29, 2008 10:10 PM
No, it's not true. BCBS continues to pay x just as if you were not retired. In that sense, BCBS is primary and there is no secondary. The only time BCBS is secondary is if you enroll in Medicare, in which case Medicare becomes primary and BCBS secondary.
Re: coordination of benefits: a question
Retired NASA Mon Jun 16, 2008 6:41 PM
My earlier post indicated that BCBS continues to pay x as if your were not retired. Based on my understanding, I believe a slight change to that statement is necessary, ie, that once you reach 65, x=y. By that I mean that BCBS will look to Medicare to set the rate and then BCBS will use that as their rate (or less if he happens to charge less) for the dr’s charge--- you will be responsible for your coinsurance and co-payments and not for any theoretical difference between x and y. Be sure to understand the stipulation the dr cannot charge an FEHB-insured person for more than 15% above the Medicare rate mentioned elsewhere in these posts. That applies irrespective of whether dr takes Medicare patients or not.
Re: coordination of benefits: a question
Retired NASA Thu Jun 26, 2008 10:36 PM
My last post indicating ‘… you will be responsible for your coinsurance and co-payments..’ should have included ‘your deductibles,’ too. The point is, if you don’t have Part B, you continue paying your out-of-pocket expenses similarly as you did prior to your retirement.
Medicare part B
Procurement Analyst DLA Wed May 28, 2008 8:38 AM
My husband opted for Med Part B when he went on disability at age 61 in order to avoid penality later on. Howevr since I am currently employed, and he is carried on my family plan thru Fed Gov Insurance, all his claims are assigned to my insurance first. He will soon turn 65, will assignment of claims change then or will they stay same until I retire?
Re: Medicare part B
John Grobe Federal Career Experts Thu May 29, 2008 7:07 PM
Until you retire FEHB will be primary.
Medicare and Federal Retirees: Part B or Not Part
Budget Analyst DOD Wed May 28, 2008 8:39 AM
What benefit do we get from the Medicare Taxes that are being deducted from our pay? I thought this would some how off-set our premiums...
Re: Medicare and Federal Retirees: Part B or Not Part
John Grobe Federal Career Experts Thu May 29, 2008 7:08 PM
The taxes cover Part A (hospitalization).
Medicare & Federal Retirees - Part B or Not Part B
HR Specialist US Army Wed May 28, 2008 9:08 AM
While we all hope to remain healthy in our retirement years, the likelihood of illness is high. My late husband & retired civil servant faced the same question when he turned 65. We searched in vain for this answer but thankfully, he went with Part B in addition to his insurance. Shortly after turning 65 his health became worse. Having both Part B and fed insurance saved us thousands in medical expenses. Many items/procedures not covered by our regular federal insurance were covered by Part B and vice versa. While he died two years later, Part B meant he had money to leave his grandchild and not leave me bankrupt in the process. I am firmly convinced it is a bargain at almost any price.
Re: Medicare & Federal Retirees - Part B or Not Part B
S N.A. Fri Jul 18, 2008 12:35 PM
With regard to the widow who wrote:
While he died two years later, Part B meant he had money to leave his grandchild and not leave me bankrupt in the process.
If one doesn't have survivors, is there still an argument for having Part B if you are seriously ill - because you want your care fully covered and don't want to go bankrupt on top of being seriously ill?
Medicare Part B or Not
General Engineer NAVAIR LKE Wed May 28, 2008 9:23 AM
John Grobe discussed the $ issues but I suspect going forward we will see more and more Doctors opting out of Medicare as their fees are cut. I suspect those of us who stay with the Blues and not sign up for part B will have a better selection of Doctors for our medical needs.
Re: Medicare Part B or Not
Stan Schein retired Tue Jun 10, 2008 12:26 PM
Excellent point. I live in the Washington DC area, and I have both Medicare and Federal Employees Blue Cross. I am shocked at the number of Doctors who will not take patients who have Medicare part B. They claim that if they take Medicare part B patients, they limit the amount they can charge the patient.
Re: Medicare Part B or Not
examiner IRS Fri Jun 27, 2008 11:59 AM
I believe the doctor is still limited to 115% of the medicare rates.
Medicare Part B Coverage - NEVER!
Environmental Engineer EPA Wed May 28, 2008 9:30 AM
When m Mother was old and needed frequent medical attention, physicians in her area were exiting Medicare B in droves. Patients had to find new doctors who would accept Medicare Part B. The advice I received and followed was to enroll my Mother in a Medicare Part B HMO. The physician at the nursing home, under the Medicare HMO, received 6K per year per patient. Under his contract he kept what was left of this amount after treatment was given during that year. This doctor decided my Mother was depressed, put my Mother on antidepressants for two weeks, and she did not respond. He discussed w Mother withholding food. I doubt she agreed. The family did not know about this although questions wree asked about missing food trays. My Mother got pneumonia and this fellow did not provide antibiotics or medical care. She arrived at the hospital too late after threatened by the family. This was accepted practice within Medicare. It was discussed at length at the hospital where my Mother died.
At 65 Don't Forget VA Pension Benefits
HR Specialist DOD Wed May 28, 2008 9:38 AM
What is VA Pension for veterans?
Pension is a benefit paid to wartime veterans who have limited or no income, and who are age 65 or older, or, if under 65, who are permanently and totally disabled. Veterans who are more seriously disabled may qualify for Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits. These are benefits that are paid in addition to the basic pension rate.
VA diability benefit vs Part B
Health Scientist CDC Wed May 28, 2008 9:59 AM
I am planning to purchase FEHB and Part B for myself. My husband can obtain care with his 30% VA disability. Should I purchase FEHB and Part B for him also? Just Part B? Just FEHB? Any assistance would be helpful.
keeping B/C family plan for two adopted children
District Counsel USSBA Wed May 28, 2008 10:23 AM
I have encountered the same problem as you have regarding the BC/BS retirement information. I am single and have adopted my two grand children, two and four year old. I am over 65 and planning on retiring soon. I will have to maintain my BC/BS family plan to cover the grandbabies. Do I have to also take Medicare part B? I believe that the cost will be exhorbitant to maintain both, as compared to paying the Blue Cross deductible. what are your thoughts? I thank you for your consideration.
Re: keeping B/C family plan for two adopted children
A Friend SBA Fri May 30, 2008 12:20 PM
Good Question. I hope you get an answer from the author of this article. Mr. Grobe, could you answer this one for everyone? Thanks in advance!
Re: keeping B/C family plan for two adopted children
District Counsel USSBA Thu Jun 5, 2008 10:35 AM
please post reply
Re: keeping B/C family plan for two adopted children
Retired NASA Mon Jun 9, 2008 2:51 PM
While waiting for someone more knowledgeable to answer this question, I’ll venture this post. As far as I know, it is the retiree's own choice if and when to join Medicare or never to join Medicare (same for the retiree‘s spouse). I could not understand readily a plan requirement that you join Part B, you, like the rest of us, have to decide whether Part B would be cost effective in your situation. However, on the unlikely chance that rules covering your Self and Family FEHB plan in retirement are maybe different (involving self and dependent children vs the usual self and spouse), I think I would contact my FEHB plan and my human resources dept and ask them to assist you. If their answer is you are required to join Medicare, I would ask them for the chapter and verse of the law or regulation stating this and then read that carefully to confirm.
Part C
Chicago fed DOL Wed May 28, 2008 10:27 AM
Is there a real advantage to enrolling in the medicare advantage projects, say with the same HMO as under FEHB--Aetna in my case? I realize you also have to sign up for Part B.
Medicare Part B
retired fed employee retired Wed May 28, 2008 10:30 AM
I have FEHB/ bc-BS plan, Medicare Part B, and VA Champ. Nothing was mentioned about VA Champ which is different from TRICARE. Can I suspend FEHB if I have VA Champ (spouse benefit).
Medicare Part B
Paralegal DOT Wed May 28, 2008 10:37 AM
When I signed up for Social Security at age 65 I was told, since I'm still working that I do not now need to sign up for PArt B as long as I'm still employed. Is that the correct answer? I have heard others say different. This was not explained or mentioned in the above article.
Medicare Requirements for Military Retirees
Environmental Protection Specialist USEPA Wed May 28, 2008 10:46 AM
Excellent article. I have one question regarding the Tricare for Life requirement to also elect to take Medicare Part B at age 65. Can the military retiree use the FEHB of his/her spouse (a Federal employee/retiree) as secondary health insurance in stead of Medicare Part B?
Medicare
International Manager IRS Wed May 28, 2008 11:05 AM
in discusssing the Medicare decision Part B yes or no? could you comment on the ramifications discussed on pages 22-23 of the 2008 Blue Cross /Shield benefits book. It pertains to the 115%limit of the Medicare Amount on charges for reimbursement if you do not have part B-perhaps an example would help of using a "one of a kind expert surgeon" who does not participate in Medicare with a fee of $15,000 and a Medicare approved amount of $7500 -thanks
Re: Medicare
Retired NASA Fri May 30, 2008 2:36 PM
The maximum the dr could charge you is 115% of $7500, or $8625. You would be responsible for your plan co-payments and coinsurance under your Blue Cross plan plus $1125 (the difference between 7500 and 8625). As I understand it, even if you had Part B, you would be out of pocket the $1125 as the dr does not accept Medicare, therefore neither Medicare nor BCBS would pay it.
Re: Medicare
Retired NASA Tue Jul 1, 2008 8:48 PM
I must add to my last post that you would be responsible for your deductibles, as well as your co-insurance and co-payments. Also, as you can see from a close reading of the pages 22 and 23 to which you refer, there is an important distinction between how Standard option and Basic option treat this topic stemming from the fact that for Basic option, you must use PPO providers to receive benefits.
Medicare/Social Security
Retired DLA DLA Wed May 28, 2008 11:22 AM
If the government quit borrowing from these funds perhaps there would be monies for the future retirees that will need Medicare when it's time to sign up.
Increasing the percentage that we pay now would only provide more funds for our government to borrow from.
FED EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ARE TOO HIGH
Private Sector Employee All non-civil servant TAXPAYERS Wed May 28, 2008 11:31 AM
AS a non civil servant (federal, state, or local), I'm disgusted with the benefits you get .... to detriment of all private sector taxpayers (who pay the vast majority of YOUR costs as well as their own). You are quite a bunch of self serving porkers, and the politicians who allow such largess to get your votes are at least as bad.
Re: FED EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ARE TOO HIGH
Thorn in the Side DOD Thu May 29, 2008 10:53 AM
PSE & TAXPAYER: Can your employer, LAWFULLY: Tell you who you can work for AFTER you quit working for him/her/it?; follow you and tap your telephone?; imprison you for what may be an honest mistake?; prevent you from running for office? All of these things are possible if you work for the feds, although not all of them happen to every employee. There is a good side to it and there is a bad side. I've earned what I have and I'm glad to have it; I've had to forgo many opportunites to keep it. I intend to enjoy it. If you don't have what we do, that's unfortunate, but it's not my fault. Maybe society needs to change.
This Article
Federal Worker and FedSmith Reader DoD Wed May 28, 2008 1:34 PM
Why pretend to offer information in the short blurp on the FedSmith home page and waste people's time in reading the Full Story and find nothing of substance in the reading... The Editor should take a look at these type articles which I find more and more of within FedSmith. This could have been said in a few words.. "It all depends on your financial capabilities and your medical needs."""
Re: This Article
Budget Analyst DOD Wed May 28, 2008 4:50 PM
You had a choice - live with it! Don't hold federal employees responsible. We pay our dues just like everyone else
Re: This Article
Budget Analyst DOD Thu May 29, 2008 9:18 AM
My response was meant for PRIVATE SECTOR EMPLOYEE'S POST "FED EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ARE TOO HIGH"
Re: This Article
examiner IRS Fri Jun 27, 2008 12:15 PM
Our retirement benefits are not too high. We are grossly underpaid. We pay a substantial amount for employee medical insurance. Some alleged benefits we get, such as life insurance and retirement home benefits are fully funded by the employee and are really cheaper on the outside. The retirement medical benefits are about 30% of the cost of the plan. We also pay into our pension plan (CSRS)
We earned our retirement benefits.
Medicare Part B
Public Affairs Tech USDA Wed May 28, 2008 2:21 PM
What coverage does Part B provide?
Mediare Part B
Human Resources Specialist DVA (Retired) Wed May 28, 2008 2:44 PM
This is a "sleeper" issue of tremendous importance. We don't know where we will be with respect to national health insurance. We also don't know if OPM will create a separate "retiree only" FEHB. What we do know is, as yo correctly point out, we carry our current FEHB into retirement. If a person can afford both Part B and FEHB I would strongly suggest they opt for both. Also, if anybody out there is even thinking of full or part-time residence in Europe, the carry-over of FEHB is exremely important because some medical coverage will be available in Europe nder FEHB; none under Medicare.
Medicare Part B?
Interested Retiree DoN Wed May 28, 2008 5:04 PM
Author provides no in depth cost/benefit analysis. But it appears that the $1200 per year price tag for each Part B enrollee is not justified to waive BCBS deductibles and copay, especially for Basic enrollees using preferred providers with no deductibles and small copays. At $20 per copay, you'd need an unlikely 60 visits to even break even!
Re: Medicare Part B?
ER Spec pretending to be an accountant DoD Thu May 29, 2008 7:49 AM
Good point. The article could have been much more detailed. I suggest Mr. Grobe do a future article and show 4 representative retirees with different issssues so we can see when the choice should be "part B yes" and when it should be "part B no".
Suspending an FEHB Plan Temporarily
Library US Army Thu May 29, 2008 12:58 PM
It was once suggested to me that the best thing is for a retiree to temporarily "suspend" the FEHB plan once the retiree is eligible for Medicare, as long as costs are low. If medical costs rise (your out of pocket Medicare costs are more than the $134.66 BCBS monthly premium, for example), the retiree can reinstate the FEHB plan. Have you heard of this before? Does it make sense?
BC/BS Basic or Standard
Retired Civilian AF Mon Jun 2, 2008 9:15 AM
I will be 65 next year and will sign up for part B.
I currently have BC/BS Standard at $314 a month. Should I change to BC/BS Basic at $198.61 a month before signing up for part B. If I change to Basic will the BC/BS benfits still cover the difference between Part B and BC.
Earl
FL.
Re: BC/BS Basic or Standard
Retired NASA Mon Jun 30, 2008 10:25 PM
I can make no claim of authority in this or any post on this forum, however, it seems to me there are 2 more or less related ways to look at this. One is to remember the reasons you originally selected Standard over Basic and then ask yourself how Part B would change that decision. The 2nd, which is probably better, is to do a point by point comparison Standard vs. Basic taking into account how they both react with Medicare, considering your own personal situation in each case. Two differences coming to mind, there are others, are that Standard has mail-order prescriptions at significant savings over Basic’s subscriptions, and Basic has no coverage for skilled nursing facilities.
Retired Military
Revenue Agent Treasury Mon Jun 2, 2008 10:07 AM
In retirement I will be eligible for Blue Cross, Medicare B, and Tricare for life.
Are there contingencies where I will need all three.
BC/BS Info
Retiree USDA Forest Service Mon Jun 2, 2008 10:57 AM
I can't find any reference to the Blue Cross Blue Shield booklet "Pre-Retirement Seminar" you mention in this article. Where can we find it?
Re: BC/BS Info
Retired NASA Tue Jun 3, 2008 9:44 PM
I received a booklet by mail just before turning 65 entitled something like ‘Medicare and You’ from BCBS. I suggest calling them and asking for a copy, it explains all the basics including how Standard Option and Basic Option interact with Medicare and also what happens if you don’t have Medicare.
Part B Medicare
Retired Postal Employee USPS Mon Jun 2, 2008 7:20 PM
I am going to agree with Medicare this time. If at all possible, take the Medicare Part B as soon as you have to. I say "have to" because for the first cuple of years at 62, when I had to sign up for part A, I paid out of pocket every quarter, because I was still working full time and I had BC/BS. Then I was notified by Medicare that I would have to take Part B or be penalized and you could only get in once a year. I took Part B. One thing I have found out since I have both, is there is no waiting for approval to get into a hospital or for treatments.
If you can afford it, then don't miss out.
Re: Coordination of Benefits: A question
Senior Auditor DCAA Tue Jun 3, 2008 5:35 AM
At age 65 as a Federal Retiree, if Medicare Part B is elected and I have BCBS FEHB Insurance, my questions are listed below relating to medical insurance:
(a) When I have a medical office visit, will I present my BCBS Insurance Card and my Medicare Part B Insurance Card as well?
(b) Or will the BCBS FEHB insurance card suffice for medical office visits?
(c) Do I have to mention Medicare Part B to the medical office or will BCBS coordinate benefits with Medicare Part B?
(d) Do I pay the normal copay to the medical office as I did as an active employee?
Medicare as Primary Ins.
Retired Retired Tue Jun 3, 2008 5:42 PM
One issue that was not covered in the artical is that Medicare becomes your primary insurer instead of Blue Cross or whatever insurance you carry. If your current Dr. does not take medicae patients or opts out in the future you will have to change. I would like to see more information on this insurance problem since it is a concern for all of us retired Fed. employees.
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Electronics Engineer SPAWAR Pacific Wed Jun 4, 2008 1:57 PM
One thing that is not clear. If you opt to have both BC/BS and Part B, and your doctor opt out of Medicare, does that mean your bills will not be paid by BC/BS if he still accepts it?
Re: Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Retired NASA Sun Jun 8, 2008 10:20 PM
I agree this question is not so easy but I think it is answered on page 23 of the 2008 BCBS brochure and is worthy of careful review, likewise the chart on page 22 for retirees not taking Part B. Better yet, in view of the number of different factors involved, it would be a good idea to be familiar with the content of both pages.
Mediacare and retirees Part B
Attorney NLRB Thu Jun 5, 2008 11:41 AM
This was a good article and informative on an important subject. I would have liked more details and more pros and cons though.
FEHB HMO and Mdicare part B
electronic engineer SPAWAR San Diego Tue Jun 10, 2008 9:42 AM
I have reached that time to sign up for part B or not. I am retired and insured under FEHB with Pacific Care. I don't see a benefit to taking part B untill such time that I am traveling a lot or move out of the coverage area. The dollars saved now should offset the penalty. Other opinions on this?
Re: FEHB HMO and Mdicare part B
Retired NASA Fri Jun 13, 2008 7:58 AM
This is not making a case to join Part B or not join; however, about trying to offset the penalty, here are some quick figures: joining at 65 and staying in 20 years (thru age 84), the retiree pays around $24000 in today’s premium numbers. Waiting until age 70, retiree pays a 50% premium for a total around $27000 through the same age (comparison is worse as he gets older if stays enrolled)--plus, during the years he waited, he has to pay out-of-pocket FEHB co-payments and coinsurance he would have saved by joining. If considering premium costs as the only factor, waiting doesn’t make too much sense, IMHO.
Medicare Part B?
Public Affairs Tech USDA Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:38 PM
What does Medicare Part B cover?
VA Medical Benefits
Attorney Department of Veterans Affairs Wed Jun 11, 2008 9:21 AM
What does one do who receives complete no cost VA medical care because he is 50% or more disabled. At age 65, he will continue to have the total no cost VA medical care for life. He will also be eligible for Medicare Part B as well as carrying the current health insurance into retirement. Do not enroll in Part B? Do not carry over federal insurace? Depend entirely on VA all health care? Wow! What choices, how about some guidance.
THANKS
Analyst DON Thu Jun 19, 2008 10:40 AM
Just a quick note of thanks. The majority of us "in the field" very much appreciate Fedsmith's articles but rarely take the time to say so. Thank you ALL for this free service.
Medicare
Management Specialist U.S. Dept. of Labor Thu Jun 26, 2008 9:14 AM
I would like to see an Article that tells me what Medicare Part A covers and What Part B covers.
Re: Medicare
Retired NASA Thu Jun 26, 2008 10:37 PM
Try typing ‘What does Medicare Part A cover?’ into the Google search box, then do a similar search for Part B. This worked for me.
Should I take medicare part B
examiner IRS Fri Jun 27, 2008 11:53 AM
I was very disappointed because I need more information. I need to know whether Federal Blue Cross/Shield reduces benefits when I turn 65 and do not take medicare. This I am confused about. I have heard rumors that the plan does, but no facts.
Assuming benefits are not reduced I do not think medicare paqrt B is worthwile for me. I would have to pay about $1150x2 in present day dollars for it. (my wife) My deductible is $600. My copay is 15%. It would take about $11000 in non hospital non drug medical bills lto reach that figure. Also there is a cap on my medial plan after which it pays 100%.
Also I plan on working past 65.
If you can not retire until you are 66 to get full benifits, why would you have to pay a penalty after you turn 65
to sign up for medicare part B when you can not drawl full retirement at 65?. Looks to me, that if you can not retire untill 66 ( for full benifits) you should not have to pay the enrollment penalty at if you wait till 66 to retire????
FEHB
retired retired Tue Jul 22, 2008 12:26 PM
How can I freeze the FEHB. I need information on that subject.
Thanks
DEBTS
Manager IRS Thu Aug 7, 2008 7:13 AM
Good information on medicare part B. I have another issue hope you can advise.
I am CSRS employee and I am eligible to retire but I have $50,000 in debt. I need to set up some sort of debt consolidation plan to pay off this debt in order to retire. Can you give me any advise on how I can set something up.
Medicare Part B and FEHB Insurance
Retired USPS Fri Aug 8, 2008 10:07 AM
Medicare is in financial trouble in part because once a retiree turns 65 he/she is required to sign up for Medicare - even if they have good insurance under FEHB. It seems to me that for those of us who can afford insurance, the solution may be to establish an income level at which Medicare is no longer applicable. Medicare was intended for those citizens who can't afford medical care rather than as a supplement to existing health insurance.
The same thinking applies to Social Security. Why should a fedral retiree with a substantial retirement income be eligible to collect Social Security income at the expense of those who will need it in the future if the program becomes insolvent?
Medicare and Retired Fed Retirees
IT DoD (Retired) USAF (DoD) Tue Aug 12, 2008 1:47 PM
I retired on 12/31/07 and decided to take Medicare part B as well as my BC/BS (family)......Thank God.
I have been in the hospital 4 different times since then (having never been there before retirement) for unusual problems and my husband for having a stroke as well. Between Medicare part B and BC/BS, I have not had to pay one penny and believe me, my husband's hospital bill/doctors bills were enomorous. Even though my pension is small (FERS) and my SS is not much, at least I won't have to worry about medical bills.
Re: Medicare and Retired Fed Retirees
Retired Retired Mon Aug 18, 2008 2:33 PM
Let us hope your health ordeals are over and that you will now enjoy many years of happy retirement. Not only do you not have to worry about future medical bills but you also need not be concerned that changes to the fehb system requiring retirees to join Part B could affect you, as you have already joined. However, Part B certainly does not come cheap. Over, say, a 25-year period, a retiree and spouse will pay something like $60,000 in today’s dollars in Part B premiums. Reasonable people may disagree whether it is possible to put $60,000 in the bank over those years earning interest while paying out of pocket the Blue Cross Standard co-payments, deductibles, and co-insurances and still have something left at the end. But few should disagree $60,000 would pay for lots doctor visits over such a period per that plan. At $15 per visit, that’s something like 4,000 visits. A lot of visits.
Medicare
Manager Sales US Postal Service Wed Aug 20, 2008 12:41 PM
Say a person ran up a doctor bill of 50,000 for surgury. If I did not have medicare, would my federal Blue Cross/Blue Shield have covered that entire bill.
the article is too vague, It up to whether you can afford it is not a answer. The question is can you afford a $100,000 doctors bill with Medicare part B
Vito
The Donut Hole
Administrative Officer DOL Tue Sep 2, 2008 9:43 AM
I hear people talk about the 'donut hole' as regards Medicare; can you explain? Does this have an effect on federal retirees who take Part B and have FEHB as secondary?
Re: The Donut Hole
Retired USPS Thu Oct 9, 2008 9:40 PM
i believe that refers to Prescription coverage with Medicare Part D.
Retirement
System Administrator Naval Medical Center Portsmouth Tue Oct 7, 2008 9:40 AM
I would like to read more about FERS in the Fed Digest concerning retirement.
FEHP (Blue Cross & Blue Shield)
William R Porter FAA Wed Oct 8, 2008 8:54 AM
I read this artical but did not find an answer to my question. Which BCBS plan option you I take if I plan to sign up for medicare part B?
Re: FEHP (Blue Cross & Blue Shield)
Retired Retired Mon Oct 13, 2008 2:29 PM
Although others might not agree, there is no stock answer to your question. You have to consider each feature of both BC options one at a time vs the other and in context of Part B and your personal situation. Just one example, suppose prior to age 65 you need BC Std because you use their mail order pharmacy feature extensively and save a lot on RX. BC Basic does not have that feature and Part B has no effect on it either. Therefore, per that one feature, Std might be better. If you're sure Part B would save you so much on co-payments, etc, maybe you would rather put some of that savings to RX while taking BC Basic and saving on premiums with Basic. It would be nice to think someone else can figure this out for you but can they really without a very close look at your circumstances?
Med Part B not penalized for Feds 65+ still workin
Transportation Specialist U.S. Dept. of Transportation Wed Oct 8, 2008 10:06 AM
What about Federal employees who turn 65 and are still working and plan to work 2 - 5 years more. Should we defer Medicare Part B and not be penalized when we select it after retiring beyond 65?
You did not adress a strong and growing segment of Federal employees who cannot afford to retire at 65 anymore due to the horrendous economy
Part B Enrollment
Branch Chief USAF Wed Oct 8, 2008 2:49 PM
Having recently dealt with my father's estate after his passing, I 100% recommend part B. Almost all of his debt was due to his medical stay in hospitals where 10 doctors poked their heads in his room to say hi and bill him $200 each. His insurance would not pay these expenses because after age 65, insurance is a "second provider" to Medicare part B. TAKE IT!
Re: Part B Enrollment
Retired Retired Tue Oct 14, 2008 8:28 AM
There are good reasons for taking Part B for some people, perhaps most, but I‘m not sure you list them here. For example, the fed program is designed such that enrolling in Part B is voluntary, if you don’t enroll, your fep plan is the only plan payer and if they don’t pay, that’s probably against the law or subject to severe sanction. About dr’s sticking their heads in, someone, either the patient or his representative, should have knowledge of what is going on when a person is in the hospital. Easier said then done, I know, but if the plan won’t pay because the treatment was not required, who ordered the treatment? As for having unpaid bills at the end, I don’t think the heirs would be responsible to pay them except to use the person’s remaining resources (if any) unless the heir was the spouse. And even then, the maximum paid by the spouse could not be more than the maximum out of pocket expense subject to the particular fep plan the couple had the years covering the illness.
Re: Part B Enrollment
Retired Retired Tue Oct 14, 2008 2:57 PM
In my earlier post I said ‘..Part B is voluntary, if you don’t enroll, your fep plan is the only plan payer….’ I trust it is understood in this case there is also the fep plan subscriber (or his spouse survivor) who would be a ‘payer’ of plan deductibles, co-payments, and coinsurance. Of course, this fact underlies this whole discussion whether to enroll in Part B or not, but I omitted that from my post. For clarity, I want to mention that fact here.
Re: Part B Enrollment
Spouse of Retired VA Employee Wed Nov 12, 2008 5:06 AM
I thought hospitalization was covered under Medicare Part A which you get at 'no cost' when you sigh up for it at 65.
Medicare and Federal Employees
Retired USFS Thu Oct 9, 2008 12:05 AM
We are paying for BC/BS Standard Family for two of us plus Medicare B for each as we are 65. But we need additional insurance to cover dental and eye care. Seems it would be beneficial to work something out where those of us who have the FEHB could opt out of Medicare and leave it for people who aren't so lucky. Give us a plan with dental and vision for a little extra. All three coverages are wiping us out.
Re: Medicare and Federal Employees
Retired USPS Thu Oct 9, 2008 9:37 PM
Retired USFS, You are not forced to take Medicare Part B and your FEHB coverage remains the same as when employed. There are Dental and Vision plans available to you as an Annuitant. The Medicare Part A is paid for by employer and employee matching and Part B has a means tested premium. Medicaid and various State programs is for the not so lucky.
Re: Medicare and Federal Employees
Retired SSA Mon Oct 13, 2008 1:15 PM
My husband & I are both retired, pay over $300/month for FEHB, and until recently were paying nearly $200/mo. for Part B. After much research (and little info), I realized that FEHB will continue to pay as they always did when I was working, but if you have part B, they only have to pay a doctor's co-pay ($15 or $20). I had to do that when I was working so what's the difference? I read an article that said BC/BS is hiding behind Medicare's skirts. Naturally, they want us to continue paying the high monthly premium for FEHB. They should decrease the $300+ premium to offset the Part B premium. Last week, I went to Social Security office and had them stop my part B, and I believe I made the right decision. It will at least give us an extra $200 per month income.
Thanks for free info
programmer HOR Fri Oct 10, 2008 3:04 PM
I'm in 3 month before 65 and is wondering whether I need to pay two premiuns (FEHB and part B). So far this fedsmith is the best site to offer information free and many comments that help too.
Some other sites are asking for annual fee to be a member to get any information.
Thank you!
Medicare
management assistant IRS Tue Oct 14, 2008 7:00 AM
I am not sure if I will take Medicare Part B when I retire.
I will not draw enough social security to pay this premium not to consider the Part D which you are also penalized if you do not take.
I have BCBS and it is going up in 2009. My husband is disable and he is on Part B and we still have a have to pay the deductable on all his doctors visits. We use mail order for his drugs most of the time and they are almost doubling the cost for 2009. Since the larger percent of the federal work force uses BCBS it seems they are taking advantage of us.
Part B Medicare and post retirement FEHB
Retired Retired Thu Oct 23, 2008 12:41 PM
This is a hard decision to make for everybody. One thing I have learned is that both BC/BS and Medicare seem confused when confronted by an individual subscribed to both. As for the medical labs, they are totally ignorant of this dual subscription/coverage. Another, perhaps less relevant issue in these difficult time,
if a dual subscriber just happens to set up residency in Europe, BC/BS continues coverage in most major cities whereas Part B coverage stops at the US border.
Medicare and FEHB in retirement
Chief Air Force Fri Oct 24, 2008 9:40 AM
If your retirement is over $82,000, then Part B costs over
$103 per month for a single person. FEHB is about $200 a month. If you can't afford Part B and FEHB and don't take it Part B, will FEHB pay as it does now or will it only pay the amounts Part B would pay? If it only pays what Part B would pay, it would adversely afftect retirees.
Re: Medicare and FEHB in retirement
Retired Retired Fri Oct 24, 2008 2:13 PM
See Page 1 of this discussion under ‘coordination of benefits: a question’ where this question was covered. There are some details to know but the bottom line is that the retiree is not adversely affected in the sense you are concerned about.
FEHB and GVT Contributions
Product Specialist DSCP Sat Oct 25, 2008 4:27 PM
The government is now paying half of the premiums for my FEHB coverage. When I retire, will they still pay that part of my premiums or will I have to pay double?
Re: FEHB and GVT Contributions
Retired Retired Sun Oct 26, 2008 7:02 PM
If you continue reading on this subject, you will likely see fed retiree consultants saying retirees can ‘carry their health benefits into retirement,’ which is a nice way of saying the retiree continues as part of the employee group for health insurance purposes and the govt continues to pay the employee benefit share of the total premium (BTW, the govt share is much greater than half of the total premium). This is, of course, a very generous and much appreciated benefit, helping to justify all the hard work one did during his career as well as the hard work one may do in the later years to try to figure out whether Part B is necessary and/or worthwhile and/or smart and/or not-so-smart after all. Or whatever…
choice of doctor under part B
retired usaid Mon Oct 27, 2008 1:45 AM
Mr. Grobe provides sensible advise on what factors to consider in signing up for Part B coverage, but he doesn't mention one that was important for me: choice of doctor. Many physicians are refusing new patients covered by Medicare. Put off by what they see as excessive bureaucracy and lower reimbursement, many doctors don't want any part of Part B, particularly in high cost-of-living areas. This will be an increasing problem if Congress persists in its efforts to lower Part B reimbursement rates. I would be interested in a study that showed what percentage of primary care physicians and specialists currently will not accept part B patients. As Mr. Gore implies, one's ultimate decision depends on whether one is an optimist or pessimist about health. Choice of doctor was important to me, but I opted for Part B (even paying top dollar) and so far it has worked ok. But that is only because my primary care doctor accepts Medicare for pre-exisiting patients, not new ones.
Re: choice of doctor under part B
Retired Retired Tue Oct 28, 2008 6:04 PM
Respect for your comments, does dr’s Medicare status affect decision re: Part B? Numbers, wholly made up, illustrate basically how I understand the question: (note ‘co-payment‘ also implies co-insurance and deductible as applicable in fep plan, and dr = fep PPO):
Age 64, visit to dr is approved by fep for $120, $120 is total paid by fep + your co-payment (say $30). Same visit age 65+, Medicare sets rate, say $90. W/ Part B, $90 paid by fep + Part B. W/O Part B, $90 paid by fep + your co-payment.
Dr doesn’t accept Medicare: max. charge = $103.50, $103.50 paid by fep and you (same co-payment + $13.50); W/O Part B same.
Not much difference in these total payments, suggesting, if anything, dr’s Medicare status alone does not justify having Part B (though there are other factors to consider).
TriCare for Life
Civilian DoD Mon Oct 27, 2008 7:23 AM
I plan to work as a DoD civilian employee past my 65th birtyday, which occurs next year. As a retired military member, TriCare Prime is now my primary insurance provider. When I turn 65, Medicare will become my primary provider with TriCare for Life as a gap supplement unless I purchase FEHB before retiring. Currently, TriCare Prime counts toward the 5-year rule for carrying FEHB into retirement. I want to purchase FEHB coverage, carry that into retirement, and then suspend it in case I need the coverage later in life. Who knows what will happen to Medicare? Does TriCare for Life also count toward the five year rule for carrying FEHB coverage into retirement or should I purchase FEHB before turning 65 (this open season)? I don't really desire to purchase FEHB now as Medicare/TriCare for Life will satisfy my health care coverage costs, but I don't want to lose the eligibility to carry FEHB into retirement.
medicare b
management assistant IRS Thu Oct 30, 2008 9:08 AM
In my case I may not be able to afford the medicare b, because I will not draw enough social security to pay by premium even at the amount for 2008.
I will have to out of pocked part of the premium and alone with the family premium (not BCBS0 but that is subject to change for 2009. BCBS is tired of counting our money or they would not go up by 12% to 13%.
I most likely will not be able to afford to stay with them any longer. I have to keep my family coverage due to my husbands health.
I will also have to assist my daughter beginning in 2010 because her COBRA will run out and she has not yet been put on Medicare B. She was eligable for Soc Sec in April 2008 I think. They have sent her information of medicare B, so I sure hope they do not penalize her.
Thanks for any information you can provide.
I
Coverage: Medicare Coverage v. BCBS
Senior Program Analyst (Retired) Internal Revenue Service Thu Oct 30, 2008 11:27 AM
I retired 2006, continuing my BCBS coverage. I recently turned 65 and elected Medicare Part B. I am currently employed and paying both payroll Medicare tax and Medicare Pt B (at the higher income rate.) Question: as Medicare is primary and if they don't cover a procedure, then BCBS will also not cover the procedure, a procedure they covered in the past. Is this correct? It just doesn't seem right that I'm paying more, much more, and getting less!
Medicare/BC-BS
Spouse of Retired VA Employee Wed Nov 12, 2008 4:49 AM
Why is getting insurance so confusing? From what I figure, I'm saving the most by getting BC Basic and no Medicare! Saves me $140 a mo. for BC and $192 a mo. for Medicare (for two people) -- that's a savings of about $3,900 a year. Am I missing something here?
Re: Medicare/BC-BS
Retired Retired Mon Nov 24, 2008 2:18 PM
The $3900 figure does not account for paying Basic co-payment and co-insurance payments, not having Part B. Older people having more health problems, if in coming years you and spouse have lots of those payments, will you still be ok with your decision and have you considered saving some of the $3900 yearly towards paying those bills? Suppose gov’t later requires joining Part B and imposes the penalty, are you ok with that risk at this time? Re: BC, have you carefully reviewed both options item by item to be sure Basic is your best choice? One example, some people might be better off with Standard because of its far superior RX benefits. Another, Basic is adamant about using PPO’s in almost every instance, otherwise $big can get spent fast. It’s also a good idea to look at other plans than BC because there are good ones with reasonable premiums. That’s MHO.
What is best plan?
Medicare Part B or Blue Cross Standard Option Retired Fed Employ Fri Nov 14, 2008 3:37 PM
I am a retired federal civil servant. It is federally insured to open season and I need help in my 2009 options. I am enrolled in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield service benefit plan standard options self only that will cost me $152.06 per month. I am also enrolled in Medicare part A and B that will cause me $96.40 per month. I know I am double playing for a lot of my benefits. I have spent many hours researching, but my reasoning is handicap due to my dyslexia. I believe I have two options. Option 1: change my BCBS plan to the basic option for $92.44 that will save me $59.62 per month. Option 2: keep my BCBS standard option and cancel my Medicare part B. that will save me $96.40. What is your recommendation?
Part B, Enrollment
Cost Engineer Dept of the Navy, NAVFAC WASHINGTON, DC Thu Nov 20, 2008 9:31 AM
Information given to me by the Social Security Dept that there is no penalty for the enrollment for Part B as long as the person is working & covererd under FEHB. After the retirement. Person has 90 days to enroll without penalty from the date of retirement for Part B. Is this information correct?
BCBS Basic
Engineer US Army Thu Nov 20, 2008 9:52 AM
If I currently carry BCBS Std for my wife and I might it be beneficial to switch to BCBS Basic and add Medicare Part B?
Re: BCBS Basic
Retired Retired Fri Nov 28, 2008 2:17 PM
My HO: the short answer is you would likely save by taking Part B and switching to Basic. A longer answer is you would likely save more by switching to Basic (paying your own co-payments and coinsurances) and not taking Part B. And a longer one yet is you could take Part B and switch to Basic, but if you need the superior prescription drug benefits of Standard and/or ignore the severe PPO requirements of Basic, then you might pay a lot more than in your current enrollment. So, the best answer I think is to make a careful decision re: Part B on its own merits (or lack of) based on your research including reading the article and the comments at this site-- these cover most if not all the for and against arguments to consider carefully. Then, having made that decision, review Basic as well as other plans (premiums, benefits, and requirements) per your personal circumstances and outlook, keeping in mind your Part B decision, to find your best fehb selection.
FEHB
mike steuermann retired DOD Thu Nov 20, 2008 11:17 AM
Of all of these articles on medicare none have talked about the changes that occur when you turn 65. I have Mail Handlers and was told by them that my coverage would be reduced to that of Medicare when I turned 65. The cost remains the same but coverage declines. That is one big reason for enrolling iin Medicare.
Re: FEHB
Retired Retired Thu Nov 20, 2008 3:00 PM
Mike, your comment indicates you don’t understand the ‘age 65’ changes correctly. Read through the posts to the article on this site to get a better idea on this or, better yet, read the section in your plan brochure which covers these changes in detail. From experience, I can tell you that section does not sink in until you read it several times, maybe more, then possibly call your plan with specific questions per reading that section line by line. And these changes in themselves don’t imply a big reason for enrolling in Medicare Part B, since the basic point is at 65 you have the same or similar limit on doctor charges as the Medicare patient even if you don’t have Part B. However, there are other reasons for taking Part B as discussed in comments to the article such as waived plan co-payments, but those age 65 changes alone don’t justify joining (if anything, maybe the opposite). I’d be interested in reading your further comment about this subject.
Re: FEHB
Retired Retired Fri Nov 21, 2008 4:12 PM
Check out this example, imperfect as only considers estimates for dr visits; Part B also covers other things like lab and tests, etc (as does fehb), in some cases Part B is better, but it is a pretty good example, I believe: Say you and a twin brother are in same fehb plan, became 65 last Jan 1. Day before (both age 64), both went to dr, both visits approved for 120. Each had co-pay of 30, plan paid 90. In 2008, you joined Part B (paying 100 per month), twin did not. Both went to dr monthly. Medicare set rate for all visits at 90. Part B and fehb plan paid for your visits, fehb and twin paid for his. Twin paid 30/visit, out of pocket 360 total. You: out of pocket 1200 less 360= 840. Twin is ahead. If weekly (52) doctor visits, you are ahead, you paid only 1200, twin paid 1560. See where Medicare reduced visit charge to 90 from 120 for both even though only you had Part B? and also why that reduction by itself would not justify Part B?
BC & BS Standard option & Medicare part B
John t. Emmert Federal Civil Service Retired Thu Nov 20, 2008 11:47 AM
We both have whats listed in the subject box. Our Question is: Will we have a co-pay at the Doctor's office visits in 2009? With an increase in premiums of approximately 14%, will it be feasilbe to carry the the Standard Optionnext year? I am 71 and my wife is 67 and we are fairly reasonable good health. It also our understanding that perscription drug will be increased.
We contacted Bc& BS and seemed to get a run around.
Your consideration will be appreciated.
We read your column daily
Thank You,
John T. Emmert
Re: BC & BS Standard option & Medicare part B
Retired Retired Fri Nov 21, 2008 10:30 PM
The only changes you should see in 2009 in BC are listed in their 2009 brochure on a page stating it contains a list of those changes. I believe your comments about the amount of premium increase and the prescription drug increase are accurate. The alternatives are to look at the Basic Option or at other fehb plans. To do this carefully requires a point by point comparison otherwise you may miss something important to you. The OPM web site has some comparison tools which are useful. Making comparisons is not an easy or fun thing to do but can end up saving money, sometimes a lot. But it takes work and time to do so, I guess that is why they give us a whole month for open season…
Medicare Part B and FEHB
Retired FEHB Fri Dec 5, 2008 10:18 AM
I am paying, beginning Jan. 2009 for standard FEBH $152.06 and for
Medicare part B $308.30 per month. Should I drop my Medicare part B and
just pay my co payments for FEHB?
FEHB and Part B
Worker US Army Mon Dec 8, 2008 11:10 AM
I was told at a retirement seminar to consider signing up for Part B and suspending (not canceling) FEHB coverage until medical costs go up enough to make cancelling the copays and deductibles enticing, especially for a family.
The problem is that you need FEHB for prescription coverage. So it would be possible to do what I am suggesting and sign up separately for a Part D prescription coverage and see. When your out of pocket costs for a year exceed the $136 x12 = $1632, then you can cancel Part D and reactivate your FEHB. It was too complicated for me to figure out, so we are so far paying for both FEHB and Part B for my husband, who is a retiree. Since we are both federal employees, we saved some money by going to two self policies instead of a self and family one, but we will face the problem again when I hit Medicare age and retire. So far I am intending to work past Medicare age, but who knows how it will work our.
key issue for discussion is missing
retired Navy Dept. Thu Jan 15, 2009 12:53 PM
My concern is not about the financial aspect but rather I'm seeing a lot of specialist refuse to take medicare patients. Will we be limiting our access to physicians by signing up for part B?
Re: key issue for discussion is missing
Retired Retired Thu Jan 22, 2009 2:24 PM
Interesting post and one I would like to see more discussion about especially by someone who really knows all the answers (I don‘t). And any discussion on this subject must assume an understanding of the rules regarding doctors’ fees and the Medicare rate for both Part B enrollees and non-enrollees for retirees with fehp, aspects of which are discussed at this web site in several posts (and, despite their importance, are very easy to misunderstand, in my opinion). As to your specific comment, couldn’t someone who has Medicare seeing a doctor who does not accept it just not admit they have Medicare? Or, if that is not acceptable, just tell the doctor to bill the fehb plan and ignore Medicare? Lastly, I’ve heard it said that because of the limitations on doctor payments both for Part B enrollees and non-enrollees who have fehb, that some doctors decide not to take new patients age 65+.
BC/BS incompetence
Attorney Advisor IRS Fri Feb 6, 2009 9:19 AM
I was wondering how much is eraned by the incompetent rep at BC/BS who was unaware of the bulletin with his/her naeme on it.
I also wonder how much is earned by the (obviously) person in charge of BC/BS. I say incompetent because if s/he weren't, the glicth with the rep unaware about the bulletin would not have happened.
This is another example of incompetence at the top.
Medicare Payments
Insurance Technician DOA Fri Feb 6, 2009 9:27 AM
I've not read or heard anything about when Medicare begins billing. I understand the Medicare payments for Part B come out of Social Security. However, if I sign up for Medicare three months before I turn 65, but do not begin Social Security benefits until 66 (when I'm eligible), does that mean I have to pay another large monthly bill for a full year, even though I do not plan on using any medical care other than routine checkups. Also, I am TFL.
BCBS Standard and part B at age 65
Retired FAA Mon Apr 27, 2009 7:46 AM
I have done the comparison and plan to keep my BCBS Standard for myself and my husband. We have high prescription costs and some health problems. My math says that it is not cost effective for me to enroll in Medicare Part B at this time even though BCBS will pay my deductible and co-pays. I'm not sure why I would ever enroll in Part B. Does Part B cover any health costs that BCBS Standard does not?
BC/BS option with medicare B
Retired Federal Aviation Admin Sat Sep 26, 2009 12:45 PM
Much has been said about part B and FEHBP but which plan do you select from BC/BS for the additional coverage The standard plan(high option) or the Basic plan. This upcoming open season my HMO is being dropped from FEHBP and I have to make some informed decision. I will also be paying a penalty for entry into Medicare B. Thanks RK
Re: BC/BS option with medicare B
Retired Retired Tue Oct 6, 2009 11:03 AM
A fair amount was also said about the two BC options and some of their differences. IMHO, there is no substitute for comparing each option to the other line by line, otherwise something important to your specific circumstances could be missed. A good place to begin is to be sure you understand the strict requirements under Basic to use PPO doctors and facilities vs Standard. Next, take a detailed look at the prescription drug coverage of each plan and be sure you understand the 3-level approach used by Basic as well as the ability to use the mail order facility under Standard. And so on…
If you have decided to enroll in Part B, as you make this review, keep in mind the individual factors as they relate or do not relate to Part B. For example, Part B does not generally provide prescription drug coverage, therefore, having Part B will not cover you if you have Basic but need the superior drug coverage of Standard.
BC/BS Option vs. Medicare
IS DCMA Thu Nov 12, 2009 1:55 PM
One thing to keep in mind is Medicare is primary and FEHB is secondary in retirement. If Medicare does not cover something (i.e. a test or procedure etc..) then neither will FEHB. If you had "ONLY" FEHB chances are your procedure would be covered.
Re: BC/BS Option vs. Medicare
Retiree DoD Fri Nov 13, 2009 8:44 PM
As I understand it correctly, Federal Retirees are required (forced) to enroll in Medicare, even though we have FEHB, so we cannot have "only" FEHB unfortunately. That doesn't seem right that we have to enroll in Medicare. You would think that we would have the choice, since if we elected to just keep our FEHB (such as BCBS) and not Medicare, we wouldn't be costing Medicare anything, plus they would have the advantage of getting our 1.45% contributions during our years of employment. Doesn't make sense to me.
Re: BC/BS Option vs. Medicare
Retired Retired Mon Nov 16, 2009 11:24 AM
If Medicare is primary, it is not correct to assume if a person has Medicare and Medicare does not cover something that fehb won’t cover it (or vice versa). It depends on what the service is and what fehb’s benefit is in each instance. To my admittedly limited knowledge, fehb brochures do not say they will not cover something if Medicare does not cover it. Therefore, where a plan’s brochure says it will cover something, I think the plan is expected to cover it unless in some instances the brochure says elsewhere it will not cover it for some other reason.
Medicare is completely optional for retired feds, not required And, while it is true that Medicare rates are used for age 65+ retired fed’s dr visits and hospital stays, those rates are used by fehb whether or not retired fed takes Medicare. If, and only if, retired fed enrolls in Medicare will Medicare become primary. Example, if retired fed enrolls in Part A, Medicare will be primary for hospital stays. Some people seem to make the mistake of saying Medicare is primary only because Medicare rates are used after age 65 (again regardless if retired fed enrolls in Medicare) but this does not in itself make Medicare primary.
The 1.45% withholding during working years is for Part A, if retiree had that withholding, retiree can have Part A free at age 65. Since most fehb plans waive their hospital co-pay if retired fed has Part A, retired fed can save that co-pay if hospitalized in retirement, has Part A, and has one of those plans.
Concern
Retired NASA Sun Nov 15, 2009 7:52 AM
Agree decision should be based on value received i.e., extra cost/extra benefit. It would have been helpful if author did or referenced, a comparison which would show the break even point assumming an illness and showing details of Part B with BCBS standard vs BCBS standard only.
Re: Concern
Retired Retired Mon Nov 16, 2009 11:15 AM
Part B premiums are currently about $1200 per year (higher if high income), therefore the breakeven point for one year is about $1200 for Part B-type co-pays absent Part B. Likewise, if retiree has Part B, the breakeven point is about $1200 for one year in waived fehb co-pays (assuming retired fed’s fehb plan waives co-pays for subscribers with Part B--most fehb plans do this, but not all do it). The hard part is forecasting the amount of Part B-type required services in the future (including with respect to any specific fehb plan) and for how long a period. For example, suppose retiree does not take Part B and saves maybe half or a third of the Part B premium over 15 years but in the next 5 years he expends co-pays exceeding the Part B premium. Conversely, suppose retiree takes Part B for 20 years the first fifteen of which waived co-pays do not exceed Part B premiums but do so the next 5 years. Would retiree in either have cause to have regrets?
I think the article does a pretty good job of setting the context for considering this and I also think the postings to date present a pretty good discussion on both sides of the issue.
OPM looks at plans for Medicare eligible retirees
Federal Career Experts
Wed May 28, 2008 8:14 AM
Since I submitted this article, OPM announced that they were considering FEHB plans for Medicare eligible federal retirees. They did not go into detail, but NARFE immediately came out against such plans.
Re: OPM looks at plans for Medicare eligible retirees
USPS
Wed May 28, 2008 12:08 PM
"Since I submitted this article, OPM announced that they were considering FEHB plans for Medicare eligible federal retirees. They did not go into detail, but NARFE immediately came out against such plans."
Tricare for Life
Army
Wed May 28, 2008 8:17 AM
I will be retiring next year and will be both Federal Retiree and Military Retiree Dependent. I have been researching this issue to try to become familiar with the coverage issues. Your article was very helpful, but you also need to add that for the Tricare for Life issue, many physicians don't take Medicare or Tricare for Life. Where I live, I cannot get OB/GYN care without my FEHB. You have to call around and ask and unfortunately many are not taking it. Because of that, I am not going to suspend my FEHB but continue it. However, it seems ridulous that my husband spent over 20 years in the Military and we have trouble finding medical care that will honor both Medicare and Tri Care. It is another one of those "benefits" that they have reduced to nothing for military retirees.
Re: Tricare for Life
DoD
Mon Oct 19, 2009 5:46 PM
Thanks
Medicare Part B
DoN
Wed May 28, 2008 8:25 AM
The only other thing not mentioned is what should the federal worker who is still employed in the federal govt. do when he turns 65. I've been told that since I currently am covered by BC/BS Standard, I shouldn't enroll in Medicare Part B until I retire. I've also been told that there is no penalty for delayed enrollment if still employed. What I WAS told to sign up for (when I turned 65) was Medicare Part A, as this coverage is 'free' to me, as a federal employee. Was this guidance correct??
Re: Medicare Part B
social security adm
Wed May 28, 2008 11:38 PM
coordination of benefits: a question
SSA
Wed May 28, 2008 8:35 AM
I still am not clear as to whether BCBS will or will not pay the portion of medical bills that Medicare Part B would have paid if a retiree could have elected Part B but did not. My experience is that an insurance that considers itself secondary to Medicare Part B does so whether or not one has Part B. Let's say BCBS would pay x amount and Medicare Part B would pay y amount. If a retireee eligible for Part B doesn't have Part B, BCBS only pays (x-y), not x. Is that true or not?
Re: coordination of benefits: a question
NASA
Thu May 29, 2008 10:10 PM
Re: coordination of benefits: a question
NASA
Mon Jun 16, 2008 6:41 PM
Re: coordination of benefits: a question
NASA
Thu Jun 26, 2008 10:36 PM
Medicare part B
DLA
Wed May 28, 2008 8:38 AM
My husband opted for Med Part B when he went on disability at age 61 in order to avoid penality later on. Howevr since I am currently employed, and he is carried on my family plan thru Fed Gov Insurance, all his claims are assigned to my insurance first. He will soon turn 65, will assignment of claims change then or will they stay same until I retire?
Re: Medicare part B
Federal Career Experts
Thu May 29, 2008 7:07 PM
Medicare and Federal Retirees: Part B or Not Part
DOD
Wed May 28, 2008 8:39 AM
What benefit do we get from the Medicare Taxes that are being deducted from our pay? I thought this would some how off-set our premiums...
Re: Medicare and Federal Retirees: Part B or Not Part
Federal Career Experts
Thu May 29, 2008 7:08 PM
Medicare & Federal Retirees - Part B or Not Part B
US Army
Wed May 28, 2008 9:08 AM
While we all hope to remain healthy in our retirement years, the likelihood of illness is high. My late husband & retired civil servant faced the same question when he turned 65. We searched in vain for this answer but thankfully, he went with Part B in addition to his insurance. Shortly after turning 65 his health became worse. Having both Part B and fed insurance saved us thousands in medical expenses. Many items/procedures not covered by our regular federal insurance were covered by Part B and vice versa. While he died two years later, Part B meant he had money to leave his grandchild and not leave me bankrupt in the process. I am firmly convinced it is a bargain at almost any price.
Re: Medicare & Federal Retirees - Part B or Not Part B
N.A.
Fri Jul 18, 2008 12:35 PM
While he died two years later, Part B meant he had money to leave his grandchild and not leave me bankrupt in the process.
If one doesn't have survivors, is there still an argument for having Part B if you are seriously ill - because you want your care fully covered and don't want to go bankrupt on top of being seriously ill?
Medicare Part B or Not
NAVAIR LKE
Wed May 28, 2008 9:23 AM
John Grobe discussed the $ issues but I suspect going forward we will see more and more Doctors opting out of Medicare as their fees are cut. I suspect those of us who stay with the Blues and not sign up for part B will have a better selection of Doctors for our medical needs.
Re: Medicare Part B or Not
retired
Tue Jun 10, 2008 12:26 PM
Re: Medicare Part B or Not
IRS
Fri Jun 27, 2008 11:59 AM
Medicare Part B Coverage - NEVER!
EPA
Wed May 28, 2008 9:30 AM
When m Mother was old and needed frequent medical attention, physicians in her area were exiting Medicare B in droves. Patients had to find new doctors who would accept Medicare Part B. The advice I received and followed was to enroll my Mother in a Medicare Part B HMO. The physician at the nursing home, under the Medicare HMO, received 6K per year per patient. Under his contract he kept what was left of this amount after treatment was given during that year. This doctor decided my Mother was depressed, put my Mother on antidepressants for two weeks, and she did not respond. He discussed w Mother withholding food. I doubt she agreed. The family did not know about this although questions wree asked about missing food trays. My Mother got pneumonia and this fellow did not provide antibiotics or medical care. She arrived at the hospital too late after threatened by the family. This was accepted practice within Medicare. It was discussed at length at the hospital where my Mother died.
At 65 Don't Forget VA Pension Benefits
DOD
Wed May 28, 2008 9:38 AM
What is VA Pension for veterans?
Pension is a benefit paid to wartime veterans who have limited or no income, and who are age 65 or older, or, if under 65, who are permanently and totally disabled. Veterans who are more seriously disabled may qualify for Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits. These are benefits that are paid in addition to the basic pension rate.
VA diability benefit vs Part B
CDC
Wed May 28, 2008 9:59 AM
I am planning to purchase FEHB and Part B for myself. My husband can obtain care with his 30% VA disability. Should I purchase FEHB and Part B for him also? Just Part B? Just FEHB? Any assistance would be helpful.
keeping B/C family plan for two adopted children
USSBA
Wed May 28, 2008 10:23 AM
I have encountered the same problem as you have regarding the BC/BS retirement information. I am single and have adopted my two grand children, two and four year old. I am over 65 and planning on retiring soon. I will have to maintain my BC/BS family plan to cover the grandbabies. Do I have to also take Medicare part B? I believe that the cost will be exhorbitant to maintain both, as compared to paying the Blue Cross deductible. what are your thoughts? I thank you for your consideration.
Re: keeping B/C family plan for two adopted children
SBA
Fri May 30, 2008 12:20 PM
Re: keeping B/C family plan for two adopted children
USSBA
Thu Jun 5, 2008 10:35 AM
Re: keeping B/C family plan for two adopted children
NASA
Mon Jun 9, 2008 2:51 PM
Part C
DOL
Wed May 28, 2008 10:27 AM
Is there a real advantage to enrolling in the medicare advantage projects, say with the same HMO as under FEHB--Aetna in my case? I realize you also have to sign up for Part B.
Medicare Part B
retired
Wed May 28, 2008 10:30 AM
I have FEHB/ bc-BS plan, Medicare Part B, and VA Champ. Nothing was mentioned about VA Champ which is different from TRICARE. Can I suspend FEHB if I have VA Champ (spouse benefit).
Medicare Part B
DOT
Wed May 28, 2008 10:37 AM
When I signed up for Social Security at age 65 I was told, since I'm still working that I do not now need to sign up for PArt B as long as I'm still employed. Is that the correct answer? I have heard others say different. This was not explained or mentioned in the above article.
Medicare Requirements for Military Retirees
USEPA
Wed May 28, 2008 10:46 AM
Excellent article. I have one question regarding the Tricare for Life requirement to also elect to take Medicare Part B at age 65. Can the military retiree use the FEHB of his/her spouse (a Federal employee/retiree) as secondary health insurance in stead of Medicare Part B?
Medicare
IRS
Wed May 28, 2008 11:05 AM
in discusssing the Medicare decision Part B yes or no? could you comment on the ramifications discussed on pages 22-23 of the 2008 Blue Cross /Shield benefits book. It pertains to the 115%limit of the Medicare Amount on charges for reimbursement if you do not have part B-perhaps an example would help of using a "one of a kind expert surgeon" who does not participate in Medicare with a fee of $15,000 and a Medicare approved amount of $7500 -thanks
Re: Medicare
NASA
Fri May 30, 2008 2:36 PM
Re: Medicare
NASA
Tue Jul 1, 2008 8:48 PM
Medicare/Social Security
DLA
Wed May 28, 2008 11:22 AM
If the government quit borrowing from these funds perhaps there would be monies for the future retirees that will need Medicare when it's time to sign up.
Increasing the percentage that we pay now would only provide more funds for our government to borrow from.
FED EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ARE TOO HIGH
All non-civil servant TAXPAYERS
Wed May 28, 2008 11:31 AM
AS a non civil servant (federal, state, or local), I'm disgusted with the benefits you get .... to detriment of all private sector taxpayers (who pay the vast majority of YOUR costs as well as their own). You are quite a bunch of self serving porkers, and the politicians who allow such largess to get your votes are at least as bad.
Re: FED EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ARE TOO HIGH
DOD
Thu May 29, 2008 10:53 AM
This Article
DoD
Wed May 28, 2008 1:34 PM
Why pretend to offer information in the short blurp on the FedSmith home page and waste people's time in reading the Full Story and find nothing of substance in the reading... The Editor should take a look at these type articles which I find more and more of within FedSmith. This could have been said in a few words.. "It all depends on your financial capabilities and your medical needs."""
Re: This Article
DOD
Wed May 28, 2008 4:50 PM
Re: This Article
DOD
Thu May 29, 2008 9:18 AM
Re: This Article
IRS
Fri Jun 27, 2008 12:15 PM
We earned our retirement benefits.
Medicare Part B
USDA
Wed May 28, 2008 2:21 PM
What coverage does Part B provide?
Mediare Part B
DVA (Retired)
Wed May 28, 2008 2:44 PM
This is a "sleeper" issue of tremendous importance. We don't know where we will be with respect to national health insurance. We also don't know if OPM will create a separate "retiree only" FEHB. What we do know is, as yo correctly point out, we carry our current FEHB into retirement. If a person can afford both Part B and FEHB I would strongly suggest they opt for both. Also, if anybody out there is even thinking of full or part-time residence in Europe, the carry-over of FEHB is exremely important because some medical coverage will be available in Europe nder FEHB; none under Medicare.
Medicare Part B?
DoN
Wed May 28, 2008 5:04 PM
Author provides no in depth cost/benefit analysis. But it appears that the $1200 per year price tag for each Part B enrollee is not justified to waive BCBS deductibles and copay, especially for Basic enrollees using preferred providers with no deductibles and small copays. At $20 per copay, you'd need an unlikely 60 visits to even break even!
Re: Medicare Part B?
DoD
Thu May 29, 2008 7:49 AM
Suspending an FEHB Plan Temporarily
US Army
Thu May 29, 2008 12:58 PM
It was once suggested to me that the best thing is for a retiree to temporarily "suspend" the FEHB plan once the retiree is eligible for Medicare, as long as costs are low. If medical costs rise (your out of pocket Medicare costs are more than the $134.66 BCBS monthly premium, for example), the retiree can reinstate the FEHB plan. Have you heard of this before? Does it make sense?
BC/BS Basic or Standard
Civilian AF
Mon Jun 2, 2008 9:15 AM
I will be 65 next year and will sign up for part B.
I currently have BC/BS Standard at $314 a month. Should I change to BC/BS Basic at $198.61 a month before signing up for part B. If I change to Basic will the BC/BS benfits still cover the difference between Part B and BC.
Earl
FL.
Re: BC/BS Basic or Standard
NASA
Mon Jun 30, 2008 10:25 PM
Retired Military
Treasury
Mon Jun 2, 2008 10:07 AM
In retirement I will be eligible for Blue Cross, Medicare B, and Tricare for life.
Are there contingencies where I will need all three.
BC/BS Info
USDA Forest Service
Mon Jun 2, 2008 10:57 AM
I can't find any reference to the Blue Cross Blue Shield booklet "Pre-Retirement Seminar" you mention in this article. Where can we find it?
Re: BC/BS Info
NASA
Tue Jun 3, 2008 9:44 PM
Part B Medicare
USPS
Mon Jun 2, 2008 7:20 PM
I am going to agree with Medicare this time. If at all possible, take the Medicare Part B as soon as you have to. I say "have to" because for the first cuple of years at 62, when I had to sign up for part A, I paid out of pocket every quarter, because I was still working full time and I had BC/BS. Then I was notified by Medicare that I would have to take Part B or be penalized and you could only get in once a year. I took Part B. One thing I have found out since I have both, is there is no waiting for approval to get into a hospital or for treatments.
If you can afford it, then don't miss out.
Re: Coordination of Benefits: A question
DCAA
Tue Jun 3, 2008 5:35 AM
At age 65 as a Federal Retiree, if Medicare Part B is elected and I have BCBS FEHB Insurance, my questions are listed below relating to medical insurance:
(a) When I have a medical office visit, will I present my BCBS Insurance Card and my Medicare Part B Insurance Card as well?
(b) Or will the BCBS FEHB insurance card suffice for medical office visits?
(c) Do I have to mention Medicare Part B to the medical office or will BCBS coordinate benefits with Medicare Part B?
(d) Do I pay the normal copay to the medical office as I did as an active employee?
Medicare as Primary Ins.
Retired
Tue Jun 3, 2008 5:42 PM
One issue that was not covered in the artical is that Medicare becomes your primary insurer instead of Blue Cross or whatever insurance you carry. If your current Dr. does not take medicae patients or opts out in the future you will have to change. I would like to see more information on this insurance problem since it is a concern for all of us retired Fed. employees.
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
SPAWAR Pacific
Wed Jun 4, 2008 1:57 PM
One thing that is not clear. If you opt to have both BC/BS and Part B, and your doctor opt out of Medicare, does that mean your bills will not be paid by BC/BS if he still accepts it?
Re: Blue Cross/Blue Shield
NASA
Sun Jun 8, 2008 10:20 PM
Mediacare and retirees Part B
NLRB
Thu Jun 5, 2008 11:41 AM
This was a good article and informative on an important subject. I would have liked more details and more pros and cons though.
FEHB HMO and Mdicare part B
SPAWAR San Diego
Tue Jun 10, 2008 9:42 AM
I have reached that time to sign up for part B or not. I am retired and insured under FEHB with Pacific Care. I don't see a benefit to taking part B untill such time that I am traveling a lot or move out of the coverage area. The dollars saved now should offset the penalty. Other opinions on this?
Re: FEHB HMO and Mdicare part B
NASA
Fri Jun 13, 2008 7:58 AM
Medicare Part B?
USDA
Tue Jun 10, 2008 3:38 PM
What does Medicare Part B cover?
VA Medical Benefits
Department of Veterans Affairs
Wed Jun 11, 2008 9:21 AM
What does one do who receives complete no cost VA medical care because he is 50% or more disabled. At age 65, he will continue to have the total no cost VA medical care for life. He will also be eligible for Medicare Part B as well as carrying the current health insurance into retirement. Do not enroll in Part B? Do not carry over federal insurace? Depend entirely on VA all health care? Wow! What choices, how about some guidance.
THANKS
DON
Thu Jun 19, 2008 10:40 AM
Just a quick note of thanks. The majority of us "in the field" very much appreciate Fedsmith's articles but rarely take the time to say so. Thank you ALL for this free service.
Medicare
U.S. Dept. of Labor
Thu Jun 26, 2008 9:14 AM
I would like to see an Article that tells me what Medicare Part A covers and What Part B covers.
Re: Medicare
NASA
Thu Jun 26, 2008 10:37 PM
Should I take medicare part B
IRS
Fri Jun 27, 2008 11:53 AM
I was very disappointed because I need more information. I need to know whether Federal Blue Cross/Shield reduces benefits when I turn 65 and do not take medicare. This I am confused about. I have heard rumors that the plan does, but no facts.
Assuming benefits are not reduced I do not think medicare paqrt B is worthwile for me. I would have to pay about $1150x2 in present day dollars for it. (my wife) My deductible is $600. My copay is 15%. It would take about $11000 in non hospital non drug medical bills lto reach that figure. Also there is a cap on my medial plan after which it pays 100%.
Also I plan on working past 65.
age of retirement penalety
vamc
Thu Jul 17, 2008 1:23 PM
If you can not retire until you are 66 to get full benifits, why would you have to pay a penalty after you turn 65
to sign up for medicare part B when you can not drawl full retirement at 65?. Looks to me, that if you can not retire untill 66 ( for full benifits) you should not have to pay the enrollment penalty at if you wait till 66 to retire????
FEHB
retired
Tue Jul 22, 2008 12:26 PM
How can I freeze the FEHB. I need information on that subject.
Thanks
DEBTS
IRS
Thu Aug 7, 2008 7:13 AM
Good information on medicare part B. I have another issue hope you can advise.
I am CSRS employee and I am eligible to retire but I have $50,000 in debt. I need to set up some sort of debt consolidation plan to pay off this debt in order to retire. Can you give me any advise on how I can set something up.
Medicare Part B and FEHB Insurance
USPS
Fri Aug 8, 2008 10:07 AM
Medicare is in financial trouble in part because once a retiree turns 65 he/she is required to sign up for Medicare - even if they have good insurance under FEHB. It seems to me that for those of us who can afford insurance, the solution may be to establish an income level at which Medicare is no longer applicable. Medicare was intended for those citizens who can't afford medical care rather than as a supplement to existing health insurance.
The same thinking applies to Social Security. Why should a fedral retiree with a substantial retirement income be eligible to collect Social Security income at the expense of those who will need it in the future if the program becomes insolvent?
Medicare and Retired Fed Retirees
USAF (DoD)
Tue Aug 12, 2008 1:47 PM
I retired on 12/31/07 and decided to take Medicare part B as well as my BC/BS (family)......Thank God.
I have been in the hospital 4 different times since then (having never been there before retirement) for unusual problems and my husband for having a stroke as well. Between Medicare part B and BC/BS, I have not had to pay one penny and believe me, my husband's hospital bill/doctors bills were enomorous. Even though my pension is small (FERS) and my SS is not much, at least I won't have to worry about medical bills.
Re: Medicare and Retired Fed Retirees
Retired
Mon Aug 18, 2008 2:33 PM
Medicare
US Postal Service
Wed Aug 20, 2008 12:41 PM
Say a person ran up a doctor bill of 50,000 for surgury. If I did not have medicare, would my federal Blue Cross/Blue Shield have covered that entire bill.
the article is too vague, It up to whether you can afford it is not a answer. The question is can you afford a $100,000 doctors bill with Medicare part B
Vito
The Donut Hole
DOL
Tue Sep 2, 2008 9:43 AM
I hear people talk about the 'donut hole' as regards Medicare; can you explain? Does this have an effect on federal retirees who take Part B and have FEHB as secondary?
Re: The Donut Hole
USPS
Thu Oct 9, 2008 9:40 PM
Retirement
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth
Tue Oct 7, 2008 9:40 AM
I would like to read more about FERS in the Fed Digest concerning retirement.
FEHP (Blue Cross & Blue Shield)
FAA
Wed Oct 8, 2008 8:54 AM
I read this artical but did not find an answer to my question. Which BCBS plan option you I take if I plan to sign up for medicare part B?
Re: FEHP (Blue Cross & Blue Shield)
Retired
Mon Oct 13, 2008 2:29 PM
Med Part B not penalized for Feds 65+ still workin
U.S. Dept. of Transportation
Wed Oct 8, 2008 10:06 AM
What about Federal employees who turn 65 and are still working and plan to work 2 - 5 years more. Should we defer Medicare Part B and not be penalized when we select it after retiring beyond 65?
You did not adress a strong and growing segment of Federal employees who cannot afford to retire at 65 anymore due to the horrendous economy
Part B Enrollment
USAF
Wed Oct 8, 2008 2:49 PM
Having recently dealt with my father's estate after his passing, I 100% recommend part B. Almost all of his debt was due to his medical stay in hospitals where 10 doctors poked their heads in his room to say hi and bill him $200 each. His insurance would not pay these expenses because after age 65, insurance is a "second provider" to Medicare part B. TAKE IT!
Re: Part B Enrollment
Retired
Tue Oct 14, 2008 8:28 AM
Re: Part B Enrollment
Retired
Tue Oct 14, 2008 2:57 PM
Re: Part B Enrollment
Retired VA Employee
Wed Nov 12, 2008 5:06 AM
Medicare and Federal Employees
USFS
Thu Oct 9, 2008 12:05 AM
We are paying for BC/BS Standard Family for two of us plus Medicare B for each as we are 65. But we need additional insurance to cover dental and eye care. Seems it would be beneficial to work something out where those of us who have the FEHB could opt out of Medicare and leave it for people who aren't so lucky. Give us a plan with dental and vision for a little extra. All three coverages are wiping us out.
Re: Medicare and Federal Employees
USPS
Thu Oct 9, 2008 9:37 PM
Re: Medicare and Federal Employees
SSA
Mon Oct 13, 2008 1:15 PM
Thanks for free info
HOR
Fri Oct 10, 2008 3:04 PM
I'm in 3 month before 65 and is wondering whether I need to pay two premiuns (FEHB and part B). So far this fedsmith is the best site to offer information free and many comments that help too.
Some other sites are asking for annual fee to be a member to get any information.
Thank you!
Medicare
IRS
Tue Oct 14, 2008 7:00 AM
I am not sure if I will take Medicare Part B when I retire.
I will not draw enough social security to pay this premium not to consider the Part D which you are also penalized if you do not take.
I have BCBS and it is going up in 2009. My husband is disable and he is on Part B and we still have a have to pay the deductable on all his doctors visits. We use mail order for his drugs most of the time and they are almost doubling the cost for 2009. Since the larger percent of the federal work force uses BCBS it seems they are taking advantage of us.
Part B Medicare and post retirement FEHB
Retired
Thu Oct 23, 2008 12:41 PM
This is a hard decision to make for everybody. One thing I have learned is that both BC/BS and Medicare seem confused when confronted by an individual subscribed to both. As for the medical labs, they are totally ignorant of this dual subscription/coverage. Another, perhaps less relevant issue in these difficult time,
if a dual subscriber just happens to set up residency in Europe, BC/BS continues coverage in most major cities whereas Part B coverage stops at the US border.
Medicare and FEHB in retirement
Air Force
Fri Oct 24, 2008 9:40 AM
If your retirement is over $82,000, then Part B costs over
$103 per month for a single person. FEHB is about $200 a month. If you can't afford Part B and FEHB and don't take it Part B, will FEHB pay as it does now or will it only pay the amounts Part B would pay? If it only pays what Part B would pay, it would adversely afftect retirees.
Re: Medicare and FEHB in retirement
Retired
Fri Oct 24, 2008 2:13 PM
FEHB and GVT Contributions
DSCP
Sat Oct 25, 2008 4:27 PM
The government is now paying half of the premiums for my FEHB coverage. When I retire, will they still pay that part of my premiums or will I have to pay double?
Re: FEHB and GVT Contributions
Retired
Sun Oct 26, 2008 7:02 PM
choice of doctor under part B
usaid
Mon Oct 27, 2008 1:45 AM
Mr. Grobe provides sensible advise on what factors to consider in signing up for Part B coverage, but he doesn't mention one that was important for me: choice of doctor. Many physicians are refusing new patients covered by Medicare. Put off by what they see as excessive bureaucracy and lower reimbursement, many doctors don't want any part of Part B, particularly in high cost-of-living areas. This will be an increasing problem if Congress persists in its efforts to lower Part B reimbursement rates. I would be interested in a study that showed what percentage of primary care physicians and specialists currently will not accept part B patients. As Mr. Gore implies, one's ultimate decision depends on whether one is an optimist or pessimist about health. Choice of doctor was important to me, but I opted for Part B (even paying top dollar) and so far it has worked ok. But that is only because my primary care doctor accepts Medicare for pre-exisiting patients, not new ones.
Re: choice of doctor under part B
Retired
Tue Oct 28, 2008 6:04 PM
Age 64, visit to dr is approved by fep for $120, $120 is total paid by fep + your co-payment (say $30). Same visit age 65+, Medicare sets rate, say $90. W/ Part B, $90 paid by fep + Part B. W/O Part B, $90 paid by fep + your co-payment.
Dr doesn’t accept Medicare: max. charge = $103.50, $103.50 paid by fep and you (same co-payment + $13.50); W/O Part B same.
Not much difference in these total payments, suggesting, if anything, dr’s Medicare status alone does not justify having Part B (though there are other factors to consider).
TriCare for Life
DoD
Mon Oct 27, 2008 7:23 AM
I plan to work as a DoD civilian employee past my 65th birtyday, which occurs next year. As a retired military member, TriCare Prime is now my primary insurance provider. When I turn 65, Medicare will become my primary provider with TriCare for Life as a gap supplement unless I purchase FEHB before retiring. Currently, TriCare Prime counts toward the 5-year rule for carrying FEHB into retirement. I want to purchase FEHB coverage, carry that into retirement, and then suspend it in case I need the coverage later in life. Who knows what will happen to Medicare? Does TriCare for Life also count toward the five year rule for carrying FEHB coverage into retirement or should I purchase FEHB before turning 65 (this open season)? I don't really desire to purchase FEHB now as Medicare/TriCare for Life will satisfy my health care coverage costs, but I don't want to lose the eligibility to carry FEHB into retirement.
medicare b
IRS
Thu Oct 30, 2008 9:08 AM
In my case I may not be able to afford the medicare b, because I will not draw enough social security to pay by premium even at the amount for 2008.
I will have to out of pocked part of the premium and alone with the family premium (not BCBS0 but that is subject to change for 2009. BCBS is tired of counting our money or they would not go up by 12% to 13%.
I most likely will not be able to afford to stay with them any longer. I have to keep my family coverage due to my husbands health.
I will also have to assist my daughter beginning in 2010 because her COBRA will run out and she has not yet been put on Medicare B. She was eligable for Soc Sec in April 2008 I think. They have sent her information of medicare B, so I sure hope they do not penalize her.
Thanks for any information you can provide.
I
Coverage: Medicare Coverage v. BCBS
Internal Revenue Service
Thu Oct 30, 2008 11:27 AM
I retired 2006, continuing my BCBS coverage. I recently turned 65 and elected Medicare Part B. I am currently employed and paying both payroll Medicare tax and Medicare Pt B (at the higher income rate.) Question: as Medicare is primary and if they don't cover a procedure, then BCBS will also not cover the procedure, a procedure they covered in the past. Is this correct? It just doesn't seem right that I'm paying more, much more, and getting less!
Medicare/BC-BS
Retired VA Employee
Wed Nov 12, 2008 4:49 AM
Why is getting insurance so confusing? From what I figure, I'm saving the most by getting BC Basic and no Medicare! Saves me $140 a mo. for BC and $192 a mo. for Medicare (for two people) -- that's a savings of about $3,900 a year. Am I missing something here?
Re: Medicare/BC-BS
Retired
Mon Nov 24, 2008 2:18 PM
What is best plan?
Retired Fed Employ
Fri Nov 14, 2008 3:37 PM
I am a retired federal civil servant. It is federally insured to open season and I need help in my 2009 options. I am enrolled in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield service benefit plan standard options self only that will cost me $152.06 per month. I am also enrolled in Medicare part A and B that will cause me $96.40 per month. I know I am double playing for a lot of my benefits. I have spent many hours researching, but my reasoning is handicap due to my dyslexia. I believe I have two options. Option 1: change my BCBS plan to the basic option for $92.44 that will save me $59.62 per month. Option 2: keep my BCBS standard option and cancel my Medicare part B. that will save me $96.40. What is your recommendation?
Part B, Enrollment
Dept of the Navy, NAVFAC WASHINGTON, DC
Thu Nov 20, 2008 9:31 AM
Information given to me by the Social Security Dept that there is no penalty for the enrollment for Part B as long as the person is working & covererd under FEHB. After the retirement. Person has 90 days to enroll without penalty from the date of retirement for Part B. Is this information correct?
BCBS Basic
US Army
Thu Nov 20, 2008 9:52 AM
If I currently carry BCBS Std for my wife and I might it be beneficial to switch to BCBS Basic and add Medicare Part B?
Re: BCBS Basic
Retired
Fri Nov 28, 2008 2:17 PM
FEHB
retired DOD
Thu Nov 20, 2008 11:17 AM
Of all of these articles on medicare none have talked about the changes that occur when you turn 65. I have Mail Handlers and was told by them that my coverage would be reduced to that of Medicare when I turned 65. The cost remains the same but coverage declines. That is one big reason for enrolling iin Medicare.
Re: FEHB
Retired
Thu Nov 20, 2008 3:00 PM
Re: FEHB
Retired
Fri Nov 21, 2008 4:12 PM
BC & BS Standard option & Medicare part B
Federal Civil Service Retired
Thu Nov 20, 2008 11:47 AM
We both have whats listed in the subject box. Our Question is: Will we have a co-pay at the Doctor's office visits in 2009? With an increase in premiums of approximately 14%, will it be feasilbe to carry the the Standard Optionnext year? I am 71 and my wife is 67 and we are fairly reasonable good health. It also our understanding that perscription drug will be increased.
We contacted Bc& BS and seemed to get a run around.
Your consideration will be appreciated.
We read your column daily
Thank You,
John T. Emmert
Re: BC & BS Standard option & Medicare part B
Retired
Fri Nov 21, 2008 10:30 PM
Medicare Part B and FEHB
FEHB
Fri Dec 5, 2008 10:18 AM
I am paying, beginning Jan. 2009 for standard FEBH $152.06 and for
Medicare part B $308.30 per month. Should I drop my Medicare part B and
just pay my co payments for FEHB?
FEHB and Part B
US Army
Mon Dec 8, 2008 11:10 AM
I was told at a retirement seminar to consider signing up for Part B and suspending (not canceling) FEHB coverage until medical costs go up enough to make cancelling the copays and deductibles enticing, especially for a family.
The problem is that you need FEHB for prescription coverage. So it would be possible to do what I am suggesting and sign up separately for a Part D prescription coverage and see. When your out of pocket costs for a year exceed the $136 x12 = $1632, then you can cancel Part D and reactivate your FEHB. It was too complicated for me to figure out, so we are so far paying for both FEHB and Part B for my husband, who is a retiree. Since we are both federal employees, we saved some money by going to two self policies instead of a self and family one, but we will face the problem again when I hit Medicare age and retire. So far I am intending to work past Medicare age, but who knows how it will work our.
key issue for discussion is missing
Navy Dept.
Thu Jan 15, 2009 12:53 PM
My concern is not about the financial aspect but rather I'm seeing a lot of specialist refuse to take medicare patients. Will we be limiting our access to physicians by signing up for part B?
Re: key issue for discussion is missing
Retired
Thu Jan 22, 2009 2:24 PM
BC/BS incompetence
IRS
Fri Feb 6, 2009 9:19 AM
I was wondering how much is eraned by the incompetent rep at BC/BS who was unaware of the bulletin with his/her naeme on it.
I also wonder how much is earned by the (obviously) person in charge of BC/BS. I say incompetent because if s/he weren't, the glicth with the rep unaware about the bulletin would not have happened.
This is another example of incompetence at the top.
Medicare Payments
DOA
Fri Feb 6, 2009 9:27 AM
I've not read or heard anything about when Medicare begins billing. I understand the Medicare payments for Part B come out of Social Security. However, if I sign up for Medicare three months before I turn 65, but do not begin Social Security benefits until 66 (when I'm eligible), does that mean I have to pay another large monthly bill for a full year, even though I do not plan on using any medical care other than routine checkups. Also, I am TFL.
BCBS Standard and part B at age 65
FAA
Mon Apr 27, 2009 7:46 AM
I have done the comparison and plan to keep my BCBS Standard for myself and my husband. We have high prescription costs and some health problems. My math says that it is not cost effective for me to enroll in Medicare Part B at this time even though BCBS will pay my deductible and co-pays. I'm not sure why I would ever enroll in Part B. Does Part B cover any health costs that BCBS Standard does not?
BC/BS option with medicare B
Federal Aviation Admin
Sat Sep 26, 2009 12:45 PM
Much has been said about part B and FEHBP but which plan do you select from BC/BS for the additional coverage The standard plan(high option) or the Basic plan. This upcoming open season my HMO is being dropped from FEHBP and I have to make some informed decision. I will also be paying a penalty for entry into Medicare B. Thanks RK
Re: BC/BS option with medicare B
Retired
Tue Oct 6, 2009 11:03 AM
If you have decided to enroll in Part B, as you make this review, keep in mind the individual factors as they relate or do not relate to Part B. For example, Part B does not generally provide prescription drug coverage, therefore, having Part B will not cover you if you have Basic but need the superior drug coverage of Standard.
BC/BS Option vs. Medicare
DCMA
Thu Nov 12, 2009 1:55 PM
One thing to keep in mind is Medicare is primary and FEHB is secondary in retirement. If Medicare does not cover something (i.e. a test or procedure etc..) then neither will FEHB. If you had "ONLY" FEHB chances are your procedure would be covered.
Re: BC/BS Option vs. Medicare
DoD
Fri Nov 13, 2009 8:44 PM
Re: BC/BS Option vs. Medicare
Retired
Mon Nov 16, 2009 11:24 AM
Medicare is completely optional for retired feds, not required And, while it is true that Medicare rates are used for age 65+ retired fed’s dr visits and hospital stays, those rates are used by fehb whether or not retired fed takes Medicare. If, and only if, retired fed enrolls in Medicare will Medicare become primary. Example, if retired fed enrolls in Part A, Medicare will be primary for hospital stays. Some people seem to make the mistake of saying Medicare is primary only because Medicare rates are used after age 65 (again regardless if retired fed enrolls in Medicare) but this does not in itself make Medicare primary.
The 1.45% withholding during working years is for Part A, if retiree had that withholding, retiree can have Part A free at age 65. Since most fehb plans waive their hospital co-pay if retired fed has Part A, retired fed can save that co-pay if hospitalized in retirement, has Part A, and has one of those plans.
Concern
NASA
Sun Nov 15, 2009 7:52 AM
Agree decision should be based on value received i.e., extra cost/extra benefit. It would have been helpful if author did or referenced, a comparison which would show the break even point assumming an illness and showing details of Part B with BCBS standard vs BCBS standard only.
Re: Concern
Retired
Mon Nov 16, 2009 11:15 AM
I think the article does a pretty good job of setting the context for considering this and I also think the postings to date present a pretty good discussion on both sides of the issue.