#free medicare advantage plans

[medicarehealthshop01]

Medicare Advantage Plans Near Me

Find the best Medicare Advantage plans near me with our help. We provide local support to compare options available in your area. Contact us at 206-309-5005 or visit https://shopmedicarehealth.com/.

[nuadaargetlamh]

One is a convicted criminal that wants to institute a dictatorship “on day one only” (with majority support from his party!), would give a greenlight to Project 2025, use a weakened Schedule F to install THOUSANDS of cronies, was just given immunity for “official acts” (what counts as “official”? whatever his Project 2025-instituted judges want, of course), wants to institute military tribunals for his enemies (and allies!), will 100% support Russia in wiping Ukraine off the map, will use the combo of the removal of the Chevron deference/the Supreme Court allowing people to openly bribe them/Schedule F to extend the far-right’s reach into every government agency and deregulate everything to the benefit of his rich capitalist buddies, has already taken away so many freedoms from racial minorities/queer people/women/anyone-that-isn’t-a-rich-white-man that it would take hours to list them all in this post, and so so so so SO MUCH MORE.

The other is a typical neoliberal politician.

Remember also, you’re not just choosing a president, you’re choosing their cabinet, potential Supreme Court justices, federal employees as well. With Project 2025 ALONE, Trump would do so much more damage than just what he can do himself. That’s not including everything else his Federalist Society Supreme Court would and have given him on a silver platter.

Project 2025 really deserves a part to itself just to list some of what it includes: complete abortion/contraceptive ban (no exceptions), destroying worker’s unions and protections, remove Social Security/Medicare/Affordable Care Act, eliminate the ENTIRE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, end civil rights protections in government, ban teaching the history of slavery, remove climate protections while gutting the EPA, end equal marriage and enforce the “traditional family ideal”, use the military to gun down protests, mass deportation of legal immigrants (especially Muslims), ending birthright citizenship, pack the lower courts, and plenty more. The far-right wasn’t able to take full advantage of Trump’s presidency the first time since it was so unexpected. They’re preparing so that they won’t make the same mistake again. THERE ARE OVER 900 PAGES OF POLICIES AND PLANS THAT THEY ABSOLUTELY WILL IMPLEMENT IF THEY WIN. READ IT.

Not to mention, if you care about Palestine (like I do, a lot), Trump would be MUCH WORSE for Palestine than the other candidate, supporting Bibi going “from the river to the sea” and already cut off millions in aid to Palestine in 2018 (which Biden reversed!). If you support a free Palestine and don’t vote blue, you have categorically hurt them more than if you did. There is no quick and bloodless peace deal that both Palestine and Israel would ever agree to. The road to an end of the Palestine-Israel conflict is going to be long and difficult, probably decades of dedicated de-radicalization in both states, and will involve far more than one person’s decisions in the end. Unless Trump takes power, and avoids all that by sending enough bombs to turn the Gaza Strip into dust.

There are a few reasons you would choose to vote third party in a FPTP system (support ranked choice voting btw) or not vote “in protest” while ignoring all the state and local elections that affect your area more than the president. Either you’re privileged enough to not be affected by what Trump would bring, you’re ignorant of the consequences, or you care more about doing nothing perfectly rather than doing something, anything that isn’t 100% ideologically “pure” to fight against the far-right fascist movement.

Every voter that still supports Trump is energized by every cruelty he enacts, while thousands of Democrats care more about purity tests and manifesting socialist revolution tulpas than avoiding a fascist dictatorship.

Have a brain, touch grass, and vote blue all the way down that fucking ballot.

[kp777]

By Max Richtman

Common Dreams - Opinion

July 30, 2024

Even after nearly six decades of Medicare’s overall success, we must continually protect it from conservatives’ attempts to cut and privatize the program.

Before Medicare was signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson 59 years ago today, nearly half of American seniors had no hospital insurance. Private insurance companies were reluctant to cover anyone over 65. Even fewer seniors had coverage for non-hospital services like doctor’s visits. Many of the elderly were forced to exhaust their retirement savings to pay for medical care; some fell into poverty because of it. All of that changed with Medicare.

In Medicare’s first year of coverage, poverty decreased by 66% among the senior population. From 1965, when Medicare was enacted, to 1994, life expectancy at age 65 increased nearly three full years. This was no coincidence. Access to Medicare coverage for those who were previously uninsured helped lift seniors out of poverty and extend their lives.

As with Social Security, workers would contribute with each paycheck toward their future Medicare benefits. Upon putting his signature on this new program, a keystone of the Great Society, President Johnson declared, “Every citizen will be able, in their productive years when they are earning, to insure themselves against the ravages of illness in old age.”

Project 2025, the right-wing blueprint for a second Trump presidency, would gut traditional Medicare by accelerating privatization and repealing drug price negotiation.

Medicare has been improved several times over the decades. In 1972, Americans with disabilities (under 65 years of age) became eligible for Medicare coverage—along with people suffering from chronic kidney disease needing dialysis or transplants. In 2003, prescription drug coverage was added to Medicare (though the program was prohibited from negotiating prices with drugmakers). The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 finally empowered Medicare to negotiate prices with Big Pharma—and lowered seniors’ costs by capping their out-of-pocket expenses for prescription drugs and insulin.

Nearly 60 years after it was enacted, Medicare is one of the most popular and efficient federal programs. Ninety-four percent of beneficiaries say they are “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their quality of care. Unlike many other federal programs, Medicare spends less than 2% of its budget on administrative costs.

Medicare isn’t perfect. It should be expanded to cover dental, hearing, and vision care. More urgently, though, the privatized version of the program, Medicare Advantage (MA), is gobbling up a larger share of the program despite myriad problems, including MA insurers overbilling the government and denying care that’s always offered by traditional Medicare. The Biden-Harris administration has been working to hold those private plans more accountable, but much remains to be done to protect traditional Medicare from efforts toward privatization.

Even after 59 years of Medicare’s overall success, we must continually defend Medicare against conservatives’ attempts to cut and privatize the program. Our founder, Rep. James Roosevelt, Sr. (D-Calif.), son of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, knew that Medicare (along with Social Security) would need continuous advocacy to withstand assaults from antagonistic political forces. That’s why the word “preserve” is in our organization’s name.

Many conservatives opposed Medicare from the start, labeling it “socialism” and “socialized medicine.” In 1962, Ronald Reagan warned that if Medicare were to be enacted, “One of these days you and I are going to spend our sunset years telling our children, and our children’s children, what it once was like in America when men were free.”

Today, the onslaught continues. The House Republican Study Committee’s (RSC) 2025 budget proposes to cut Medicare by an estimated $1 trillion over the next decade. The RSC would replace Medicare’s current system with vouchers, and push seniors into private plans that can and do deny coverage. Project 2025, the right-wing blueprint for a second Trump presidency, would gut traditional Medicare by accelerating privatization and repealing drug price negotiation.

Democrats by and large support protecting and even expanding Medicare. President Joe Biden tried to add dental, vision, and hearing coverage in his Build Back Better Act, but encountered resistance from Republicans and centrist Democrats. It’s still a laudable goal.

Republicans, for the most part, advocate cutting Medicare benefits and privatization. We endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president, because she knows the importance of Medicare to America’s seniors and people with disabilities—and has vowed to protect them. Former President Donald Trump, on the other hand, has been rhetorically all over the map on this topic, telling CNBC he is “open” to “cutting entitlements” but claiming to support Medicare. (His budgets as president called for billions of dollars in Medicare cuts.)

The 59th anniversary of Medicare is both an occasion for celebrating the program’s enormous successes over the past six decades—and a time to defend Medicare in the marbled halls of Washington, D.C., and at the ballot box this November.

Max Richtman is president and CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare. He is former staff director at the United States Senate Special Committee on Aging.

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

Ultrawealthy Americans enjoy so many ways to avoid taxes that Gary Cohn, former President Donald Trump’s director of the National Economic Council, once wisecracked, “Only morons pay the estate tax.”

On Monday, a group of four Democratic senators urged Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to crack down on a host of specially-designed trusts and financial vehicles that allow the wealthiest individuals to shield their personal fortunes and pass down massive inheritances tax-free.

The letter, from Sens. Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, Chris Van Hollen, and Sheldon Whitehouse, laid out a series of potential IRS regulations that would make trusts, particularly, less attractive as tax shelters for the 1%.

“Billionaires and multi-millionaires use trusts to shift wealth to their heirs tax-free, dodging federal estate and gift taxes,” the senators wrote. “And they are doing this in the open: Their wealth managers are bragging about how their tax dodging tricks will be more effective in the current economy.”

Only about 0.1% of Americans pay estate taxes, despite thousands of families having fortunes larger than the current $25.48 million exemption.

When President Joe Biden promised on the campaign trail to raise taxes on the richest Americans, it unleashed a race to set up the kinds of legal tax shelters that would protect their inheritable assets from the estate tax.

They feared Biden would lower the estate tax exemption — which Republicans under Trump had raised to its all-time high — and resuscitate proposed IRS rules that make it more difficult to use trusts to avoid taxes on substantial inheritances.

But Democrats dropped their plans to raise inheritance taxes early on in the Biden administration. And in their letter, the lawmakers argued there is far more the IRS can do to crack down on the “shell games” the ultrawealthy use to shield huge generational wealth transfers from taxation.

Popular schemes they highlighted include families using special vehicles, called family limited partnerships, to understate the values of their estates; placing assets that will rise in value, such as a stock portfolio, inside a tax-shielded trust before the price can rebound; and cycling stocks and other assets through a grantor trust to avoid inheritance taxes.

The current economy, where stocks have lost double digits in value, actually supercharges some of these tax shelters because they shield appreciation from taxation.

“As the richest Americans celebrate and take advantage of these favorable tax opportunities, middle-class families struggle with inflation and Republicans threaten austerity measures and the end of Social Security and Medicare,” the lawmakers wrote.

They argued that the Treasury Department could crack down on these tax-avoidance vehicles without action from Congress.

It can revoke a rule that currently exempts transfers between grantors and grantor trusts from taxes, and it can require grantor trusts to hold a minimum value so they would be less useful as a pass-through for avoiding taxes. And it can clarify and rein in the kinds of asset sales and valuation practices tax planners have abused to wedge their clients’ enormous estates into various tax-shielded trusts and partnerships.

“Although the details of various trusts may differ, the result of wealthy individuals transferring millions in assets to heirs tax-free does not,” they continued. “The ultra-wealthy at the top of the socioeconomic ladder live by different rules than the rest of America.”

[gwydionmisha]

Personal: Disability Stuff

Tuesday was one of the disability services assessments I am required to do every year. We mostly talked about my arm. There was the inevitable dementia test, of course. Even though obviously the test is super easy, I always end up poking at my brain after, as if the act of being made to take one makes me feel less competent.

We won't know for a bit how this effects Goth Millennial's or Cleaner hours, but Goth Millennial is assured not to lose any, according to the assessor. They may also get Honest Contractor (Some of you may remember him for such episodes as the time the city paid a guy to fix a bunch of things in my house the Winter of 2019-2020, or that time we lost power to a third of the apartment between Christmas and New Year because the builder wired everything wrong, and he fixed it for free with a bit of wire and a paper clip.) to come put a pull bar by the toilet so I can use my left hand to get up on a bad hip day. There is no grab bar now, but a bit of wall juts out and I can use it a little with my right arm on a good shoulder day, but I need a long term solution. Medicare advantage FTW.

Reminder: For those of you in the US in need of health care, or who want a better plan, right now is open enrollment and there are actually people who will help you get better healthcare who you do not have to pay through a government program.

[anexperimentallife]

Just some rambling about my life, including future plans.

Man, I don't WANT to go back to the US. I'd love Uruguay, Thailand, or Republic of Ireland, sure, but not the US.

But even though medical care is better (and cheaper) in EVERY other developed country, the US is where I can use my Medicare and VA benefits, which means that unlike most US folks, I can get my surgeries and meds there for almost free. And I need SOOOO much done now that my health has gone so far downhill since El's birth. That's probably the only way I'll make it long enough to watch her grow up.

Plus considering we're all US citizens, and El is now old enough to not need her mommy 24/7, @thesurestthing will be able to put her degree to work, which she can't legally do here--and I know she's been frustrated about not being able to contribute financially. (Of course, living in the US, we'll NEED two incomes.) And then there's the fact that El will have advantages growing up in a country where she's an actual citizen instead of a long-term tourist renewing her status every couple of months.

In many ways, we're lucky, though. If my health had declined BEFORE we got pregnant with Eleanor, we'd have kept being careful to not get pregnant. But at the time, my health was stable (even though I was disabled), and I had JUST gotten the contract to get paid a licensing fee to let a gaming company turn Karma into a video game, so we were like, hey, if it happens, it happens.

Then the mess with Eleanor's birth certificate, me getting covid three times, and all the lasting health issues that came with that, AND the company canceling the game project (although I DID get a year's worth of licensing fees for a game that will never be finished--and social security was like, "Yeah, getting paid for intellectual property rights doesn't count as working, so you're good to keep getting disability").

I'm glad we didn't know how bad things would get, that we'd be hit with whammy after whammy over the next couple of years. Because if we'd known, we'd have kept being careful, would never have gotten pregnant, and we wouldn't have Eleanor.

And yeah, it's a challenge being a parent while we wait to get my health issues addressed, but even on my worst days, this little girl is my biggest reason for opening my eyes in the morning.

And that's one of the reasons I write things like this; when she's older (and especially if I don't make it), I want her to be able to look back and see how important she has always been to me.

I know the US is already a police state, but we're hoping it can avoid becoming a full-on military dictatorship for just a little while longer.

[rainofaugustsith]

About that Medicare for All slogan

So I've been seeing 'Medicare for All' slogans again, and while I fully believe in universal health care I think they need to revise that slogan. Right now I also see a lot of people sneering because older Americans aren't glomming onto that slogan. 

They really should, IMHO, be making that slogan "EXPANDED or REFORMED Medicare for all" to get people on board. Because as it is, it can be really costly, and many seniors and disabled people are not able to afford healthcare even with it. Those thinking it's a panacea as it is, without reform? Well, let's have a peek and see.  

1. Background: Medicare is a program mostly for seniors and disabled people receiving SSDI. 

There are two basic ways to get Medicare: be over a certain age (right now 67) and receive Social Security Retirement. OR, be younger than 67, disabled and receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Disabled people who receive only SSI are not eligible for Medicare. 

Original Medicare functions like a PPO. For those outside the States, you can go to any doctor that accepts Medicare and there are little to no prior authorizations required. This makes it easier for people to obtain quality care because they can go anywhere, more or less, and aren't trapped in a narrow provider network. 

BUT: 

2. Medicare is fucking confusing. 

There's Part A (hospital), Part B (outpatient), Part D (drug coverage), Part C (Advantage plans) and several other moving parts, each with their own fee schedules and rules. 

3. Medicare isn't free. 

Part A is free for most, but if you don't qualify for that, it can cost up to $506/month. 

Part A also has a deductible of $1600 every single inpatient hospital stay. For those outside the USA, the deductible is the amount you have to pay out of pocket before the insurance will pay anything at all. 

If someone is in the hospital for a while, they start paying copayments that begin at $400/day, starting on the 61st day. If they need to be in skilled nursing facilities for surgery/injury recovery, copayments of $200/day kick in after the 20th day.

Part B (outpatient) has a premium which, as of 2023, is $164.90 per month, as well as a once-yearly deductible of $226. 

Medicare is an 80/20 scheme, which means they cover 80% of the bill and you get the rest. That might not sound too bad until you look at what medical care in the USA costs. A simple MRI might be billed at $3000. 20% of that is yours. Still sound reasonably priced? 4. Medicare doesn't cover everything. 

Dental, optical and many other things are notoriously not covered by Medicare. That's why you will find people on Medicare buying separate coverage for these things - which means they're paying additional premiums every month. 

5. We haven't even gotten to prescriptions yet. 

So prescription coverage for Medicare is under Part D. You have to choose a prescription drug plan to administer your benefits and they are all different. Some might cost you nothing. Some might cost you a lot every month, so if you're keeping count, that's your fourth monthly premium after Part B, vision and dental. Some change their formulary every year. Those commercials about Medicare open enrollment? That's the period in the fall when people on Medicare have to sift through the formularies and see if their PDP is going to cover their meds next year. Some people do qualify for Extra Help from Medicare which covers the premiums and brings down the coinsurance for meds, but not everyone. 

Oh, and the meds are tiered. Tier 1 are the most basic/common meds that will cost you nothing or very little. Tier 4 are meds that are barely covered, perhaps 30%. 

Wait, there's more! There's a 'donut hole' or coverage cap built into plans. Essentially, when your med costs reach $4660 for the year, the coverage gap begins. Right now you pay no more than 25% of the drug costs, but it used to be a complete gap. This continues until you reach $7400 in drug costs, at which time you enter the 'catastrophic' tier where meds usually cost a lot less. And it resets annually. 

Think this is a hard cap to reach? Remember, common meds for things like cardiac conditions and headaches can cost $1000 each per month. Take a few of them and you're up to that $4460 real quick. 

This is why you may have read or heard stories about seniors taking bus trips to Canada to buy meds. It's honestly cheaper sometimes to take a trip across the border than navigate this shit. 

6. This is why a lot of people get pressed into an HMO. 

In order to navigate a lot of the above, a lot of people get pressed into optional Medicare Advantage plans, technically Part C. These are mostly HMOs run by major insurance companies. They offer the promise of consolidating benefits, eliminating the copays and drug coverage web - at the cost of pressing you back into an HMO with referrals and prior authorizations, as well as their limited network.  OR people get a 'Medigap' supplement that covers the costs that Medicare doesn't, while allowing them to remain with original (PPO style) Medicare. Those typically cost more than the Part C plans.

7. Some people do get help, but it may be hard to navigate. 

Some people have secondary insurance they can keep through a job or spouse. That might have premiums attached to it.  Some states have Medicare Savings Programs to help people pay the costs. But not all.

Some people earn little enough for SSDI or retirement that they also qualify for Medicaid as a secondary insurance. Medicaid generally picks up that which Medicare doesn't - such as that 20% coinsurance and the deductible. Medi-Medis are often pressured into joining HMOs as well, which really don't benefit them. 

Medicare also has some programs like Extra Help and such, which they can help you apply for. But this is a lot for people to navigate.  So- this is why Medicare for All might not thrill people the way you think it might. REFORMED Medicare for All on the other hand might make the same people jump right on board.

[lunod]

Why did they discontinue your drug plan? Are you still on Medicare?

Turning this into a Medicare Explanation Thing since a lot of people don't know, feel free to save this if you/someone you know is waiting on SSI/SSDI case or thinking about it. Medicare comes in 5 separate parts because why not make disabled people jump through a bunch of complex unnecessary stuff.

Part A is hospital, covering specifically hospital bills not regular outpatient appointments. Part B is medical insurance which is your primary Dr and everything outpatient. When you get on disability they will give you Part A and/or Part B. If you have both they call it Original Medicare. Original Medicare also only covers 80% of the cost of everything, you have to pay 20% out of pocket and they don't have a limit meaning there's not a point where you stop paying the 20%. Oh and Original Medicare doesn't cover vision, dental, or hearing.

Part D is prescription drug coverage. They usually do not immediately put you on this because it costs extra, but also if you fail to sign up for it and then sign up several months after getting Medicare you will be penalized with an extra cost for the rest of the time that you have Medicare (yay!). Part D is not directly through the govt, it's private insurances like United Healthcare that are contracted with the govt. If you only have Original Medicare, none of your meds are covered and you have to pay full price.

Part C is also called Medicare Advantage, it is optional where you get Part A, B, and D all bundled together but you do this through private insurers like UHC and BCBS. Some of them do not charge a premium but some of them do, which is important because you would be paying for Original Medicare and then also potentially paying another premium for Part C. There is also the downside that Medicare is accepted by a LOT of places, but if you do Medicare Advantage you have to go through drs that that insurer covers. That may/may not be an issue depending on where you live. Upside is it may cost less (because they often have limits on how much you pay before they cover 100%) or cover more things than Medicare.

Last one is Medigap which is a separate plan (that you also pay for and get penalized if you don't sign up in time) that helps pay for your deductible. The Original Medicare deductible is $200-something for 2023 meaning you have to pay that amount before Medicare even bothers covering 80%.

So for my specific circumstance, I still have Original Medicare and there's no issue with my govt disability payments either. I was auto-enrolled for Part D because I qualified for Extra Help (basically I am Extra Poor), but for some reason UHC gave me drug insurance for a state I don't live in. I called to correct it and they told me it was fine and they would just switch me to the correct state, except the contractor actually just cancelled the plan entirely without telling me that's what they were doing and also without signing me up for a new plan. Which I found out when I went to pick up from the pharmacy. If I did not qualify for Extra Help, which has Special Enrollment Periods, I would have had to go 4 months without drug insurance until Open Enrollment in October...I just lucked out so instead of waiting til Oct I only have to wait til next month.

[alliancehealthgroup02]

Senior Insurance Services in Florida

Whether you are looking for the latest Medicare plan information, or are considering Medicare Supplements, Senior Insurance Services in Florida can help you get the information you need. This company provides assistance with Claim and Carrier issues, and offers information on Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans) and Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage).

Senior Life Services is an insurance company that offers final expense insurance. These plans pay medical bills that are incurred when a policyholder dies. They can also cover the cost of non-emergency medical transportation. These plans usually have affordable premiums, and have no health requirements. However, they are not the only options. In fact, there are many other life insurance companies that offer policies for the mature market.

Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance plans that combine Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Part B (medical insurance) into one plan. These plans are usually offered through private insurance companies, and they offer nearly the same benefits as Original Medicare. These plans have a variety of eligibility requirements.

Medicare Advantage plans typically have a limited enrollment period. In addition, you may have to be enrolled in Original Medicare to apply. There are also different kinds of plans available, including health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and preferred provider organizations (PPOs). These plans stack multiple benefits onto a single plan, and have different out-of-pocket costs and referral rules.

Medicare Advantage plans have been very popular in Florida. The benefits of this type of insurance include nearly the same benefits as Original Medicare, along with valuable extra services. They can help pay for preventive health screenings and lab tests, and they may also cover services delivered during an inpatient hospital stay. In addition, they can offer additional benefits that are not included with Original Medicare, such as senior health sessions. However, Medicare Advantage plans are not free, and the cost can vary by ZIP code.

Medicare Advantage plans are often available as preferred provider organizations (PPOs) or health maintenance organizations (HMOs). However, there are also plans that are offered as free Medicare Advantage plans, such as those offered by the State of Florida. These plans may also offer additional benefits, such as non-emergency medical transportation and senior health sessions. However, these plans are not available in every county in Florida.

Medicare Advantage plans are a good choice for those who are on a fixed income. The monthly premiums can be affordable, and they can help pay for a variety of services. However, the annual out-of-pocket maximums vary, and most Part C plans have a maximum out-of-pocket limit. You may also be required to purchase a Medicare supplement, which will reduce your patient's portion of the bill to a near-zero amount.

This company is based in Vero Beach, Florida, and has more than 15 carriers to choose from. They offer products that cover the cost of long-term care, critical illness insurance, and annuities. They also provide free educational seminars, participate in community events, and offer free counseling.

[medicarehealthshop01]

Medicare Health Insurance

Our team helps you understand your options for Medicare health insurance to ensure you choose the right plan. Call 206-309-5005 or visit https://shopmedicarehealth.com/ for expert advice.

[theyoungturks]

AARP, formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons, is gladly supporting the privatization of medicare by wasting taxpayer dollars. Ana Kasparian and John Iadarola discuss on The Young Turks. Watch TYT LIVE on weekdays 6-8 pm ET. http://youtube.com/theyoungturks/live Read more HERE: https://jacobin.com/2022/11/aarp-medicare-advantage-privatization-health-care-seniors "Despite massive and systemic problems with for-profit Medicare plans denying care to seniors while costing the government more than $7 billion annually in excess fees, the leading advocacy group tasked with protecting older Americans is welcoming the privatization of the national health insurance program — while earning as much as $814 million annually from insurers advertising the plans. The state of affairs lays bare a conflict inside AARP, the major advocacy organization for Americans fifty and older, over how to approach the regulation of Medicare Advantage, the for-profit version of Medicare." *** The largest online progressive news show in the world. Hosted by Cenk Uygur and Ana Kasparian. LIVE weekdays 6-8 pm ET. Help support our mission and get perks. Membership protects TYT's independence from corporate ownership and allows us to provide free live shows that speak truth to power for people around the world. See Perks: ▶ https://www.youtube.com/TheYoungTurks/join SUBSCRIBE on YOUTUBE: ☞ http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=theyoungturks FACEBOOK: ☞ http://www.facebook.com/TheYoungTurks TWITTER: ☞ http://www.twitter.com/TheYoungTurks INSTAGRAM: ☞ http://www.instagram.com/TheYoungTurks TWITCH: ☞ http://www.twitch.com/tyt 👕 Merch: http://shoptyt.com ❤ Donate: http://www.tyt.com/go 🔗 Website: https://www.tyt.com 📱App: http://www.tyt.com/app 📬 Newsletters: https://www.tyt.com/newsletters/ If you want to watch more videos from TYT, consider subscribing to other channels in our network: The Watchlist https://www.youtube.com/watchlisttyt Indisputable with Dr. Rashad Richey https://www.youtube.com/indisputabletyt Unbossed with Nina Turner https://www.youtube.com/unbossedtyt The Damage Report ▶ https://www.youtube.com/thedamagereport TYT Sports ▶ https://www.youtube.com/tytsports The Conversation ▶ https://www.youtube.com/tytconversation Rebel HQ ▶ https://www.youtube.com/rebelhq TYT Investigates ▶ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwNJt9PYyN1uyw2XhNIQMMA #TYT #TheYoungTurks #BreakingNews 221123__TB02_AARP_Betrays_Older_Americans by The Young Turks

[ohiomedicareplansposts]

Devoted Health's HMO plans in Ohio earned a 5 out of 5 Medicare Advantage (MA) performance Star Rating for 2023.

Devoted Health's plans are rated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on a 5-star scale, with 5 stars being the highest rating. The ratings are based on customer satisfaction and quality of care, and can change from year to year.

Devoted Health's plans offer a variety of benefits, including:

Dental coverage for dentures, crowns, and root canals

Money for groceries, vitamins, toothpaste, and eyeglasses or contacts

No copay for labs at doctor offices

Free gym membership at thousands of gyms

No copay for primary care visits

Prescription drugs starting at $0

Free hearing exam and low copays for hearing aids

Contact OhioMedicarePlan today to discuss your plan options!

[breenfinancialmanagement]

Building a Secure Future: How to Prepare for Retirement Effectively

Retirement is one of life’s most significant milestones, and preparing for it requires careful planning and strategy. The key to a secure future lies in creating a solid financial foundation. One essential step is to start early with retirement savings plans, which allow you to make consistent contributions over time. Expert guidance can also help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning, ensuring you make informed decisions that align with your long-term goals.

Here are essential strategies for effective retirement preparation:

Start Saving Early and Stay Consistent

The earlier saving begins, the more time investments have to grow. Compounding interest works over time, allowing small, regular contributions to snowball into substantial savings. While starting soon provides the most significant advantage, it’s important to remember that it’s never too late to start. Maximizing contributions to retirement accounts can help close the gap for those closer to retirement.

Consistency is another crucial factor. Regular contributions, even in small amounts, add up over the years. Sticking to a savings plan, regardless of market fluctuations or changes in personal circumstances, helps build a solid foundation for retirement.

Set Clear Financial Goals

Having clear retirement goals helps shape a strategic savings plan. Consider lifestyle expectations, projected expenses, and long-term needs when setting these goals. It’s essential to assess expected retirement income against anticipated costs.

When setting financial goals, take into account:

Lifetime income needs: Estimate how much will be required annually to maintain a desired lifestyle.

Healthcare expenses: As medical costs rise with age, setting aside funds specifically for healthcare is vital.

Estate protection: Consider how wealth will be transferred to heirs and whether any specific estate planning measures need to be taken.

Realistic, measurable goals make it easier to maintain focus on building retirement savings over the long term.

Maximize Retirement Accounts and Employer Benefits

Understanding and maximizing the benefits of retirement accounts can significantly improve retirement readiness. Employer-sponsored qualified plans, such as 401(k)s, often offer matching contributions, which can be a valuable tool for increasing savings.

Taking full advantage of these opportunities is crucial, as failing to contribute enough to qualify for employer matching is essentially leaving money on the table.

In addition to employer-sponsored plans, consider the benefits of Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), including traditional and Roth options. Traditional IRAs allow for tax-deferred growth, while Roth IRAs provide tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

Understand Social Security Benefits

Social Security plays a significant role in retirement income. Still, planning how and when to begin claiming these benefits is important. Deciding to delay benefits can result in larger monthly payments while starting earlier will reduce the overall amount received. Understanding how Social Security fits into the broader retirement strategy allows for better financial planning.

While Social Security can help cover some retirement expenses, it’s generally insufficient to maintain a desired lifestyle. Therefore, Social Security should complement, not replace, other retirement savings efforts.

Plan for Healthcare and Long-Term Needs

Healthcare is one of the most unpredictable and potentially expensive aspects of retirement planning. As people age, their medical needs often increase, leading to higher doctor visits, medications, and potential long-term care costs.

Planning for these costs ahead of time—whether through savings or specialized insurance policies—can help mitigate financial strain later in life.

While providing a foundation of coverage, Medicare doesn’t cover all healthcare costs, especially for long-term care. A robust plan should include supplemental insurance or long-term care coverage provisions to fill in potential gaps.

Seek Expert Guidance

The complexities of retirement planning can often be overwhelming, making professional guidance essential. An advisor specializing in asset management or retirement strategies can provide tailored advice based on individual circumstances, helping to fine-tune goals, maximize benefits, and manage risks.

Experts can assist in crafting a plan that accounts for all aspects of retirement, including tax considerations, estate planning.

Revisit and Adjust Plans Regularly

As life circumstances, financial markets, and retirement goals evolve, it’s important to regularly revisit and adjust the retirement strategy. A plan made ten years ago might not be as effective in the current market or with new lifestyle changes. Seeking professional retirement planning financial services ensures that regular check-ins keep your savings on track and allow you to adapt to any unexpected changes effectively.

Conclusion

Preparing for retirement requires a combination of early, consistent saving, clear goal setting, maximizing available resources, and seeking expert advice. By following these strategies, it’s possible to build a secure and comfortable financial future ready to support the desired retirement lifestyle.

Start planning your secure retirement today with expert guidance to ensure a comfortable and financially stable future.

[amarisbella21]

What Happens When You Turn 65: Your Guide To Medicare?

Turning 65 is a significant milestone, especially when it comes to Medicare, the federal health insurance program for older adults. As you approach this age, it's crucial to understand how Medicare works and what steps you need to take to ensure you’re covered. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what happens when you turn 65 and how to navigate Medicare.

1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

When you turn 65, you enter your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) for Medicare. This seven-month window begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes the month of your birthday, and ends three months after. During this time, you can enroll in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Part B (medical insurance). It’s essential to sign up during this period to avoid late enrollment penalties and ensure your coverage starts promptly.

2. Medicare Part A and Part B

Medicare Part A: This covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services. If you or your spouse have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 40 quarters (about 10 years), you will usually qualify for Part A without paying a premium.

Medicare Part B: This covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and some home health services not covered by Part A. Unlike Part A, Part B requires a monthly premium, which is based on your income. Enrolling in Part B is optional, but if you delay and don’t have other credible health coverage, you may face late enrollment penalties.

3. Deciding on Enrollment

Deciding whether to enroll in Medicare Part B when you turn 65 depends on your current health insurance situation. If you are still working and have health insurance through your employer or your spouse’s employer, you might choose to delay Part B enrollment. However, be sure to understand how your current insurance works with Medicare to avoid gaps in coverage. Once you retire or lose your employer coverage, you’ll need to sign up for Part B during a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to avoid penalties.

4. Medicare Advantage and Supplement Plans

Medicare Advantage (Part C): These plans are offered by private insurance companies and include all benefits of Part A and Part B, often with additional benefits like vision, dental, and hearing coverage. You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan instead of using traditional Medicare.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap): Medigap plans help cover out-of-pocket costs such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles not covered by Original Medicare. These plans are also offered by private insurers and can provide additional financial protection.

5. Costs and Budgeting

Understanding Medicare costs is vital for budgeting. While Medicare Part A may be premium-free for many, Part B comes with a monthly premium that varies based on your income. Additionally, you may have costs associated with deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, especially if you opt for Medicare Advantage or Supplement plans.

6. Choosing Your Coverage

Choosing the right Medicare coverage  involves reviewing your health needs and financial situation. Consider factors like your current health status, any existing health conditions, and how often you see healthcare providers. Comparing different plans and understanding their coverage options, costs, and networks will help you make informed decisions.

7. Ongoing Enrollment Periods

Once your Initial Enrollment Period ends, you will have the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7 each year to make changes to your Medicare coverage. During this time, you can switch plans, enroll in new ones, or make adjustments based on your needs.

Conclusion

Turning 65 opens the door to Medicare, an essential program for managing healthcare in your later years. By understanding the enrollment periods, coverage options, and associated costs, you can make informed decisions and ensure you have the right coverage to meet your needs. Take the time to explore your options and plan to make the transition into Medicare smooth and beneficial, keeping in mind the Medicare eligibility age.

[coloradowalkinbath]

The Benefits of Walk-In Tubs and Shower Remodeling in Denver

When it comes to creating a safe and accessible bathroom environment, especially for seniors or individuals with mobility challenges, walk in shower remodeling are two of the most effective solutions. These modifications not only enhance safety but also add value to your home, making them a wise investment for anyone looking to improve their quality of life.

Walk-In Tubs: A Safer Bathing Solution

Walk-in tubs have become increasingly popular in Denver, where residents are prioritizing safety and independence as they age. These tubs are designed with a low step-in threshold, built-in seating, and handrails to make bathing easier and safer for those with limited mobility. Unlike traditional bathtubs, walk-in tubs reduce the risk of slips and falls, which is a common concern for seniors.

One of the key advantages of walk in tubs denver is the therapeutic benefits they offer. Many models come equipped with hydrotherapy jets, which can help alleviate pain from arthritis, muscle tension, and other chronic conditions. The warm water and massaging action can promote relaxation, improve circulation, and even enhance sleep quality. Moreover, the ability to bathe independently in a walk-in tub fosters a sense of dignity and self-reliance, which is invaluable for many older adults.

Walk-In Shower Remodeling: Enhancing Accessibility

For those who prefer showers over baths, walk-in shower remodeling is an excellent option. A walk-in shower is typically designed with a barrier-free entry, making it easy to step in and out without the need to lift one’s leg over a high threshold. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who use wheelchairs or walkers, as it allows them to safely access the shower without assistance.

In addition to improving safety, walk-in shower remodeling can also transform the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom. Many homeowners in Denver are opting for modern designs that include sleek glass enclosures, stylish tiles, and customizable showerheads. With the right design, a walk-in shower can make your bathroom feel more spacious and luxurious.

Another benefit of walk-in shower remodeling is the ease of maintenance. These showers are often designed with minimal grout lines and non-porous materials, making them resistant to mold and mildew. This not only extends the lifespan of the shower but also reduces the amount of time and effort needed for cleaning.

Are Walk-In Tubs Covered by Medicare?

A common question among those considering a walk-in tub is whether it is covered by Medicare. Unfortunately, Medicare typically does not cover the cost of walk-in tubs. The primary reason is that Medicare classifies walk-in tubs as "luxury items" rather than "durable medical equipment" (DME), which is the category that most medically necessary equipment falls under. However, there are some exceptions. For example, if a walk-in tub is deemed medically necessary by a doctor and is prescribed as part of a treatment plan, there may be instances where Medicare provides partial reimbursement or covers certain installation costs.

For those looking for financial assistance, there are other options available. Some states offer Medicaid waivers or other programs that might help cover the cost of a walk-in tub. Additionally, there may be grants or low-interest loans available for seniors or individuals with disabilities to make home modifications.

Independent Home Bathtubs: A Versatile Option

For those who prefer a more traditional bathing experience but still require additional safety features, independent home bathtubs are a great alternative. These bathtubs are designed with built-in handrails, non-slip surfaces, and sometimes even adjustable heights, making them a safer option than standard bathtubs. While they may not have all the features of a walk-in tub, independent home bathtubs provide a balance between functionality and comfort.

Independent home bathtubs are ideal for households where not everyone requires a walk-in tub. They offer the versatility of a regular bathtub while still providing the essential safety features needed by those with mobility issues. This makes them a popular choice among families who want to cater to different needs within the same household.

Conclusion

Whether you're considering a Walk In Tubs Covered by Medicare, or an independent home bathtub, making your bathroom more accessible is a decision that will enhance your safety, comfort, and independence. While Medicare may not cover the cost of these modifications, the long-term benefits they offer make them a worthwhile investment for your home and well-being. In Denver, where aging in place is a growing trend, these modifications can also increase the value of your home, ensuring that you can enjoy both safety and luxury for years to come.

[scottjoyce29]

Scott Joyce: Medicare Advantage Expert in St. Louis

Navigating Medicare can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to selecting the right Medicare Advantage plan. In St. Louis, Scott Joyce stands out as a leading expert in helping individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.

Why Choose Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage plans offer an alternative to traditional Medicare, often bundling additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and wellness programs. These plans are designed to provide comprehensive coverage that meets your specific healthcare needs. However, with so many options available, finding the right plan can be overwhelming. That’s where Scott Joyce comes in.

Expertise You Can Trust

With years of experience in the industry, Scott Joyce has built a reputation for providing personalized and reliable Medicare Advantage guidance in St. Louis. He takes the time to understand your unique healthcare requirements, ensuring you select a plan that fits both your medical needs and budget. Scott’s deep knowledge of the local market means he’s well-versed in the available options, making him the go-to resource for Medicare Advantage in St. Louis.

Simplifying the Process

Scott Joyce is dedicated to making the Medicare Advantage selection process as simple and stress-free as possible. From initial consultations to ongoing support, Scott provides the expertise and attention you need to feel confident in your healthcare choices.

For those seeking Medicare Advantage, Scott Joyce Medicare Broker St Louis is the expert you can trust to guide you through the complexities of Medicare and find the plan that works best for you