Tuesday, January 05, 2010

HumanaVid: So, What's Medicare Gonna Cost Me?

These little videos really do a great job of explaining, in layman's terms, sometimes complex insurance principles. And, as far as they go, they're not blatant commercials for Humana. Case in point, this 4 minute explanation of how one determines one's cost for Medicare coverage. Check it out, then stay with us for a moment for some post-game analysis:



I have three "issues" with this presentation. That's not an indictment: after all, how much can they cover in such a short time? Still, I think they're important:


First, people need to know that Social Security and Medicare eligibility don't always work and play well together.


Second, the video blithely suggests choosing only those providers who accept Medicare assignment. As we've documented, this is often much easier said than done.


Finally, while the video alludes to Medicare Advantage plans, it fails to point out that their very existence is, at best, precarious.


If you are (or someone you love is) near retirement, keep these potential speed bumps in mind.

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