Friday, February 16, 2007

Medicare Advantage plans: ongoing problems

This information comes from Vicki Baker.

The State of Wisconsin has a Medigap Helpline (800-242-1060) to help people with questions about Medicare Advantage plans. The helpline also fielded questions about the meetings that were held "touting the value of enrolling" in the plans.

Some of the problem areas frequently reported to the Helpline or the Ombudsman Program (800-242-1060):
  • A given plan is not suitable, especially for people with complex health needs
  • People on Medicaid find themselves paying premiums that they did not have to pay in the original federal Medicare A and B plans.
  • People who want to enroll only in a Part D prescription plan are being enrolled by agents into the Advantage Plan.
  • Some agents use high-pressure, intimidating sales tactics.
  • Trial period and open enrollment rights are being denied.
What's more, the Medicare Rights Center says that Advantage plans cost about 12% more per enrollee than the original Medicare, and the total excess payments to Advantage plans exceeded $5.2 billion in 2005.

Make sure your clients and loved ones know that they shouldn't sign anything they're not comfortable with. They can check with the hotline. If they've already signed and have problems, they can file a complaint with the State of Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance, 800-236-8517.

More information in this press release from the State of Wisconsin Board on Aging and Long Term Care.

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