Elder Law and special needs attorney Jim Koewler joins Suzanne to explain the differences between Medicare Advantage and a Medicare Supplement.

Basic Medicare pays 80% of healthcare costs. In addition, Medicare caps what it pays to providers. A Medicare Supplement will cover the 20% that Medicare doesn't cover, no questions asked, with no copays and an annual deductible of about $180. Most people have Medicare Parts A and B. Doctor visits, therapy, and similar items are covered under Part B, while hospitalization and rehab center stays are covered under Part A. Neither covers prescription drug costs.

A Medicare Advantage plan is a form of "managed care" that substitutes for Medicare, so if you enroll in it, then you're out of the Medicare system, but now in the Advantage system. These plans can have deductibles, copays, and can limit coverages to particular locales, but you may get low-cost coverage in exchange.

Learn more at http://www.protectingseniors.com or email Jim at jkoewler-afe@protectingseniors.com.

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