The Disadvantages of Medicare

Once you reach retirement age, Medicare will likely be your primary source of financial support when it comes to medical issues. While this program is provided as a benefit to United States citizens, it requires an understanding of some of its inherent disadvantages to avoid possible hassles with coverage of and payment for your medical care.

Too Many Options

• One of the options that you can choose from when you become eligible for Medicare is a Medicare Advantage plan. A Medicare Advantage plan is a type of comprehensive insurance that is sold by private insurance companies. This is designed to replace the Medicare Part A and B that you can get directly from the government. The problem with these plans is the abundance from which to choose: Senior citizens often have to choose from among 50 or more different plans, all with different options, which can make for a confusing process when it comes to deciding which type of plan would be best for you.

Limited Network of Providers

• One of the issues that many people have with certain Medicare plans is dealing with a limited network of medical providers. When you sign up for a Medicare plan, it may have a limited number of medical facilities and doctors that you can visit for care. If you have been going to a certain doctor for many years, you may not be able to continue seeing him once you get on Medicare, as you might have limited options, depending on where you live.

Other Limitations

• When choosing a Medicare plan, you need to be sure of all that it covers. Some treatments may not be covered under the plan that you choose. For example, if you wish to undergo an experimental treatment, your Medicare plan may not pay for it. You might be limited to a certain number of treatments that you can get through the plan, as well.

Lack of Long-Term Care

• Long-term care is one of the major limitations with Medicare. With Medicare, you can get some payments when you have to go into a skilled nursing facility. If you need to go into a nursing home or get at-home care, you may not be able to receive any benefits at all. If you undergo surgery or some other type of serious treatment, you may be able to get some home care paid for only for a short period of time; after that, you are solely responsible for the payments.