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	<title>Medicare Supplement News</title>
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	<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news</link>
	<description>Medicare News, Updates, and Changes</description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:53:04 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>Medicare Supplement Quotes - Don’t Forget Plan N</title>
		<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-quotes-don%e2%80%99t-forget-plan-n/</link>
		<comments>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-quotes-don%e2%80%99t-forget-plan-n/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:53:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cris</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Quotes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/?p=236</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Getting Medicare Supplement Quotes can be difficult.  There are new plans, new companies, and every agent and company is trying to sell you something different.  Cutting through the noise and getting the right information can be very easy if you know where to look and know what questions to ask.  Whether you [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Getting Medicare Supplement Quotes can be difficult.  There are new plans, new companies, and every agent and company is trying to sell you something different.  Cutting through the noise and getting the right information can be very easy if you know where to look and know what questions to ask.  Whether you are just turning 65, or have been on Medicare for quite some time, taking a moment to read this article can have a huge impact on your health care.<span id="more-236"></span></p>
<p>The first thing to remember when gathering Medicare Supplement Quotes is not to exclude companies that you haven’t heard of before.  Some very high quality insurance companies only specialize in a few types of insurance, which means you might not have heard about the company because you have never needed Medicare Supplemental Insurance before.   In addition, Medicare Supplement Insurance is standardized by the Center for Medicare Services, so every company must offer the same exact benefits.  Well-known companies offer the same exact plans with the same exact benefits as the companies whom you have never heard of.  However, the company you haven’t heard of before might be more affordable, which can help save you hundreds of dollars.</p>
<p>The second thing to remember when getting Medicare Supplement Quotes is don’t forget about new Medicare Supplement Plan N.  This new plan was introduced to the marketplace on June 1st, 2010 and has been a big hit.  While Medicare Supplement Plan N doesn’t have the best benefit package, the price is very affordable, which can be great if you are on a tight budget.  If you purchase this Medicare Supplement Plan, you will have to pay the Part B deductible, which is $155 for 2010, as well as $20 co-payments at the Doctor and $50 co-payments for emergency room visits.  Most people rarely visit the emergency room unless it is a real emergency, and the $20 co-payment is very low if you rarely see a doctor.  Keep in mind this plan is often over $30 per month cheaper than Plan F, which is the most complete plan.</p>
<p>The third thing to remember when shopping for <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Quotes</a> is everyone is trying to sell you something.  Your local agent will try to sell you the company he represents.  Any insurance company you contact will take the time to tell you why their company is best, and which plan you should buy.  In addition, your friends and family will try to get you to buy the plan they have, because they probably believe it is best.  Keep in mind, just because a plan is great for one person, doesn’t necessarily mean it is best for everyone.   Each person has unique needs based upon their health condition, their gender, age, and where they live.</p>
<p>Getting <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Quotes</a> from your local agent can be logical, but they may not be able to give you complete information because Medicare Supplemental Insurance is probably not the type of insurance they specialize in and they probably don’t represent every company.  Contacting every insurance company will yield results, but is very time consuming and each company will try to sell you their product.  Consulting with a Medicare Supplement broker is the best method to get Medicare Supplement Quotes because they often carry every insurance company and can offer an honest opinion about which plan is best for you.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Quotes</a> can be hard to find, but if you get the correct information about Plan F, Plan G, and Plan N you will be well on your way to making a good decision.  Make sure you contact a national insurance broker who is knowledgeable and can give you an honest opinion regarding which plan is best.  In addition, the broker you contact should be able to give you quotes from multiple companies, and will likely be able to help with your prescription drug plan as well.</p>
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		<title>Medicare Supplement Plan F – After all changes it’s Still the Best!</title>
		<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-plan-f-%e2%80%93-after-all-changes-it%e2%80%99s-still-the-best/</link>
		<comments>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-plan-f-%e2%80%93-after-all-changes-it%e2%80%99s-still-the-best/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jun 2010 18:16:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cris</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Plan]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Plan F]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/?p=233</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Plans are changing on June 1st, 2010.   After it is all said and done, four plans will be eliminated and two new plans are going to be introduced.   Despite all the changes, the most popular and Best Medicare Supplement Plan is still plan F.  This is largely due to the comprehensive [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Plans</a> are changing on June 1st, 2010.   After it is all said and done, four plans will be eliminated and two new plans are going to be introduced.   Despite all the changes, the most popular and Best <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Plan</a> is still plan F.  This is largely due to the comprehensive nature of this plan and the low monthly premium offered by quality insurance companies.<span id="more-233"></span></p>
<p>Many insurance companies and agents are talking about the new Medicare supplement plans that are being introduced to the marketplace.  However, these plans simply do not offer the same amount of coverage as Medicare Supplement Plan F.  While they may be cheaper on a monthly basis, those who need any medical services might find their out of pocket expenses will be higher because of increased copayments and deductibles.   In addition, the monthly premium for Medicare Supplement Plan F is often not much higher if you get quotes from all companies to make sure you get the lowest price available.</p>
<p>Medicare Advantage Plans have become quite popular over the last few years.  However, with the new Health Care Reform bill that was recently passed these plans will become more expensive and benefits will be cut.  This is a direct result of government spending cuts to the Medicare Advantage program, which has been a drain on tax dollars for years.  In addition, many doctors and hospitals will likely not accept these types of plans going forward, making them rather useless.</p>
<p>The Best Medicare supplement plan is also the most popular.  <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Plan F</a> is the chosen plan among the majority of people who are enrolling in Medicare for the first time.  As a result, the risk pool for insurance companies offering these plans is rather large, which brings the monthly premium for people who purchase this plan down, making it a more affordable option.</p>
<p>In addition to having large risk pools, nearly every insurance company offers Plan F because it is indeed the Best Medicare Supplement Plan.   All insurance companies want to sell as many plans as possible, which means they must compete on price because plan F has the exact same benefits regardless of which company sells it.   This competition further reduces the price for <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Plan F</a> making it even more affordable for consumers who choose this option.</p>
<p>There are other low cost options besides Plan F.  The second Best <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Plan</a> is Plan G, which is exactly like Plan F except you must pay the annual Part B deductible, which is $155 in 2010.  Plan G is more affordable than Medicare Supplement Plan F on a monthly basis, but there are more headaches associated with this plan because you must pay the annual deductible for physician services.  Our recommendation is to stick with Medicare Supplement Plan F if you can afford it.</p>
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		<title>Medicare Supplement Plans - Switch Now, Get Better Coverage and Save Money!</title>
		<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-plans-switch-now-get-better-coverage-and-save-money/</link>
		<comments>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-plans-switch-now-get-better-coverage-and-save-money/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 16 Apr 2010 16:30:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cris</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Plans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/?p=227</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Open Enrollment Period ended on March 31st, but many people can still switch to a different Medicare Supplement Plan and save hundreds of dollars per year. This is because the Open Enrollment Period only applies to people who have, or wish to purchase a Medicare Advantage Plan.  Those of you who have a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Open Enrollment Period ended on March 31st, but many people can still switch to a different <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Plan</a> and save hundreds of dollars per year. This is because the Open Enrollment Period only applies to people who have, or wish to purchase a Medicare Advantage Plan. <span id="more-227"></span> Those of you who have a Medicare Supplement Plan can switch to any company or plan as long as you meet a few basic requirements.</p>
<p>Ida Wangberg, who is 75 years old and lives in Durham, California just switched her plan from Blue Cross to Mutual of Omaha and will be saving over $100 per month. Not only will she be saving over $1200 per year, but she will continue to receive the same exact benefits and will visit the same doctors and hospitals. Medicare Supplement Plans are standardized by the Center for Medicare Services, which means all insurance companies must offer the same exact plans and benefits. The only difference between the different insurance companies is how much they charge you for the plans. In this case, Ida made a very smart decision by shopping all insurance companies to make sure she is getting the best price available for Medicare Supplement Plan F, which is the plan she wanted.</p>
<p>How did Ida do it? She contacted an insurance broker who carried every company and plan and who was able to give her expert, unbiased advice, which saved her a lot of money. However, in order to qualify she had to answer a series of health questions in order to be approved because she was not in a guaranteed issue period. Because she is in great health and has no heart conditions, cancer, or diabetes, she was approved within a few weeks and was saving money before she knew it.</p>
<p>Switching <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Plans</a> is easy, especially if you consult an expert such as the partners at Medicare Supplement Shop. Within just a few minutes, these experts can determine if you will qualify for another insurance plan and exactly how much money you will be able to save on a monthly basis. In addition, because they carry every company and every plan, they can give you an unbiased opinion and save you even more.</p>
<p>If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, you must wait until the Annual Enrollment Period, which begins on November 15th and ends on December 31st before you can switch to a Medicare Supplement Plan. However, if you have had your Medicare Advantage plan for less than 12 months you will have a guaranteed issue period which means you will not have to answer any health questions and you can purchase and one of the <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Plans</a> regardless of any pre-existing health issues.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Plans</a> are offered by many companies, all of which have very different prices, varying degrees of financial stability, and different customer service and billing departments. Price is very important, but it is not the only factor to consider when making a purchasing decision. A knowledgeable broker will be able to explain the advantages and disadvantages of every company and plan and can help you enroll immediately and start saving today.</p>
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		<title>Best Medicare Supplement Insurance - An Expert Opinion</title>
		<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/best-medicare-supplement-insurance-an-expert-opinion/</link>
		<comments>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/best-medicare-supplement-insurance-an-expert-opinion/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 10 Apr 2010 22:17:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cris</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Best Medicare Supplement]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Plans]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/?p=223</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Finding the Best Medicare Supplement can be a daunting task, especially if you are just turning 65 or are new to Medicare. There are many things to consider including which Medicare Supplement Plan to buy, which company to buy it from, how much you need to pay. In addition, some Medicare plans may have extra [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Finding the <strong>Best Medicare Supplement</strong> can be a daunting task, especially if you are just turning 65 or are new to Medicare. There are many things to consider including which <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Plan</a> to buy, which company to buy it from, how much you need to pay. In addition, some Medicare plans may have extra benefits that may be beneficial depending on your lifestyle and medical needs.<span id="more-223"></span> It is extremely important to choose wisely as this decision may directly affect your health and your finances for the rest of your life.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Plans</a> are standardized by the Center for Medicare Services, which means every insurance company must offer the same exact plans and the same exact benefits. There are many options to consider, but there are only a few plans that are worth buying. Medicare Supplement Plan F is the most popular Plan, mostly because it has the most comprehensive coverage available to seniors. People who purchase Medicare supplement plan F rarely pay medical bills because all medical and hospital dueductibles and copayments are covered. In addition, this plan can be very affordable because the insurance companies can reduce the price due to the large amount of people who purchase this plan. The second most popular medicare supplement plan is plan G, which is exactly like Plan F except you must pay the Medicare Part B deductible, which is $155 for 2010. This plan is cheaper than Plan F and may be more cost efficient for people who are in great health and rarely see the doctor.</p>
<p>As we age and need more medical help, service becomes much more important. Good customer service and ease of use can be priceless, especially after dealing with major health issues and huge medical bills. Choosing a company that pays the bills on time, has direct claims processing, and who picks up the phone when you have a problem can be very important. Good medicare supplement brokers and your healthcare professionals will be able to easily tell who which companies are best in this area. Keep in mind if you purchase your Medicare supplement plan from an experienced and knowledgable agent or broker you will have much better service at no additional cost.</p>
<p>Medicare Supplement Plans are standardized, which means there can be huge differences in monthly premium for the exact same plans and benefits. The <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Best Medicare Supplement</a> Plans offer comprehensive coverage for a low price. This difference in price is why it is so important for people to compare all companies to make sure they are receiving the best Medicare Supplement plan available for the benefit package they choose. In some cases, brand name companies can charge over $100 more per month more than their competitors for the exact same plan, which is why some couples can save over $2000 per year just by choosing the best medicare supplement company.</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Best Medicare Supplement</a> companies will offer extra benefits in the form of prescription discount cards, discounts for vision services, and free gym memberships through special programs. These benefits can be very useful if enjoy an active lifestyle, or need extra care. A few companies that offer these programs include Humana, AARP, and Mutual of Omaha. However, you should contact a knowledgable agent to see exactly what these additional benefits entail and they are subject to change at any time, making this the least important thing to consider when making a buying decision.</p>
<p>There are also several factors that may seem important to consider, but have no real benefit to the consumer. When looking for the <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Best Medicare Supplement</a>, many people believe that brand name and the financial strength of the company are important. However, this type of insurance is secondary in nature because Medicare is your primary insurer. Therefore any doctor or hospital that accepts original Medicare will accept your Medicare supplement plan regardless of which company you choose. In addition, while financial strenth of the company is always important to some degree, it is not an important factor in this situation because if your insurance carrier were to go bankrupt, Medicare would give you a special guaranteed issue period and you would be able to purchase any plan from any company without going through underwriting. Keep in mind, it is possible to purchase a great plan from a great company for a very affordable price. A good medicare supplement broker can easily help you compare all companies and find the Best Medicare Supplement.</p>
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		<title>Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies - Best Plans &amp; Prices</title>
		<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-insurance-companies-best-plans-prices/</link>
		<comments>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-insurance-companies-best-plans-prices/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Mar 2010 17:53:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cris</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Plans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/?p=219</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies offer great coverage to Seniors at affordable prices.  However, picking the best plan and getting the best price can be a difficult task as there are many companies offering several different Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans. Leading insurance companies offer great customer service and provide excellent plans and coverage for a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies</a> offer great coverage to Seniors at affordable prices.  However, picking the best plan and getting the best price can be a difficult task as there are many companies offering several different Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans. <span id="more-219"></span>Leading insurance companies offer great customer service and provide excellent plans and coverage for a low price.  The most popular companies nationwide are Mutual of Omaha, AARP, Blue Cross, and Humana. When shopping for a great plan it is very important to compare all companies and plans to ensure your are making a wise choice.</p>
<p>Mutual of Omaha is an &#8220;A&#8221; rated company with excellent customer service and a dedicated Medicare Supplement department.  The main reason this company is so popular is because they have very competitive prices in many states due to their strict underwriting guidelines and low broker commissions.  This means they pay fewer claims because their customers are healthier and they pay their agents a lower commission, which enables them to pass along the savings to their customers.   Mutual of Omaha has three companies that sell Medicare Supplement Insurance, including United of Omaha, United World, and Mutual of Omaha.  In addition to their great prices and customer service, this company offers valuable savings for vision care and eyewear through their EyeMed program, which is included with every Mutual of Omaha Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan.</p>
<p>Gerber Life is another Medicare Supplement Insurance Company that can be an excellent choice for people looking to buy an affordable Medicare Supplement Plan.  This company has an &#8220;A&#8221; rating and is a division of the same company that has made baby food for years.  Gerber Life is offered in nearly every state, has great customer service, and established relationships with hospitals and physicians.   While this company is relatively new to Medicare Supplement Insurance, they have been in the insurance business for years and all of their customers are extremely happy and well taken care of.</p>
<p>AARP is one of the most popular <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies</a> because they have strong brand name recognition and a loyal following.  They tend to be more expensive in most areas of the country but their pricing method is very different from most.   AARP uses a combination of Community Rated Pricing and Age-Attained Pricing to deliver plans at an affordable price. However, the real benefit to AARP Medicare Supplement Plans is their &#8220;Silver Sneakers&#8221; program, which will pay for your gym membership if you visit a participating facility.   In addition, AARP has very relaxed underwriting and will accept most people into their plans, even if they are disabled.</p>
<p>Blue Cross is another very popular company, mostly because of their strong brand recognition and great employer health plans. However, they tend to be very expensive in most areas, which makes them a less desirable option for many people.  The one benefit with Blue Cross is they offer additional riders for people who are willing to spend a lot of money to receive the best coverage possible.</p>
<p>Humana is another one of the most expensive <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies</a>.  However, they have great Medicare Advantage Plans and Prescription Drug Plans that are available in almost every county in America.   Humana Medicare Supplement Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans offer the &#8220;Silver Sneakers&#8221; program as well, which means people who enjoy going to a participating gym may save money on their gym membership.  This can be a huge benefit for seniors who like to stay active.</p>
<p>Choosing the perfect Medicare Supplement Plan can be very difficult considering the vast amount of <strong>Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies</strong> that are available today.  We recommend shopping all companies to make sure you get the best plan for the best price.  The easiest way to accomplish this daunting task is to contact an insurance broker who carries all companies and plans and who can offer unbiased, expert advice.  Please do not hesitate to call the experts at Medicare Supplement Shop at (800) 807-0177 if you would like free quotes and plan information.</p>
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		<title>Medicare Supplement Comparison - What&#8217;s Important &amp; How to do it!</title>
		<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-comparison-whats-important-how-to-do-it/</link>
		<comments>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-comparison-whats-important-how-to-do-it/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:34:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cris</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Comparison]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Plans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/?p=215</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Comparison is extremely important when determining which Medicare Supplement Plan you should purchase.  When comparing these plans one should consider what type of plan is best for their health condition, the company offering the policy, and the method in which they purchase the plan.  Ignoring any of these factors when doing [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Comparison</a> is extremely important when determining which <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Plan</a> you should purchase.  When comparing these plans one should consider what type of plan is best for their health condition, the company offering the policy, and the method in which they purchase the plan.  Ignoring any of these factors when doing Medicare supplement comparison could lead to a faulty choice and unexpected shortcomings down the road.  <span id="more-215"></span>The first and most important decision is what type of plan you should purchase&#8230;</p>
<p>Medicare Supplement Plans are standardized by the Center for Medicare Services (CMS), which means every company must sell the same exact plans and offer the same exact benefits.  These plans range from Plan A, which offers little coverage, to Plan F, which offers extremely good coverage and is the most popular choice for people turning 65 and for those who are leaving employer health plans.   Plan F is the very best plan and all plans should be measured by this standard when doing a <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Comparison</a>. The second best Medicare Supplement Plan is Plan G, which after June 1st, 2010 will offer every benefit Plan F offers except this plan will not pay the Part B deductible, which is $155 in 2010.  The benefit of purchasing Plan G is the monthly premium is often less than Plan F.</p>
<p>When doing a Medicare Supplement Comparison, make note that Medicare Supplement Plans E, H, I, and J will be eliminated in 2010 and Medicare Supplement Plan N &amp; M will be introduced to the marketplace.  The reason for these changes is because Medicare is eliminating two benefits, which are &#8220;Preventive Care&#8221; and &#8220;At Home Recovery&#8221;.  These benefits were rarely used by Medicare recipients and Plans offering these benefits are being eliminated.  However, all plans will include an additional hospice benefit, which will be much more beneficial to people who purchase these plans.</p>
<p>Medicare Supplement Companies offer the exact same plans and benefits, but the prices they charge for those plans will be very different and some companies provide much better service than others.   Companies with low prices include Gerber Life, Mutual of Omaha, Family Life, and Blue Cross.  However, it is important to compare prices in your area as prices and available companies can differ depending on where you live.   Medicare Supplement Companies with excellent service include Mutual of Omaha, AARP, and Blue Cross.  Make sure not to overlook service when doing a <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Comparison</a> as billing issues with medical providers are common.</p>
<p>There are several ways to purchase Medicare Supplement Plans, including buying from your local agent, purchasing directly from the insurance company, or using an insurance broker who specializes in Medicare supplement insurance.  Local agents often times only carry one or two companies, which makes it difficult for them to offer competitive plans and prices, especially considering all of the new plans and companies that are available in the marketplace.  In addition, local agents rarely specialize in Medicare supplement insurance so they may not have the knowledge necessary to make a good recommendation.  You can purchase directly from the insurance company if you wish, but you will not have an agent to call when issues arise, and you will not have anyone to call for advice regarding prescription drug plans and new Medicare plans and changes.  In addition, you do not receive a discount for purchasing directly from the insurance company.  The best way to purchase Medicare Supplemental Insurance is to use an Insurance Broker who specializes in this type of insurance and carries all companies.  This partner can be very helpful and will provide advice regarding all new Medicare Plans and Prescriptions Drug Plans.  In addition, you have someone who will pick up the phone every time and will take care of all customer service and billing issues.  If you would like to do a Medicare Supplement Comparison or would like to enroll in any plan, please do not hesitate to call the experts at Medicare Supplement Shop at their toll free number - (800) 807-0177.</p>
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		<title>California Medicare Supplement - Guide to Best Plan &amp; Company!</title>
		<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/california-medicare-supplement-guide-to-best-plan-company/</link>
		<comments>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/california-medicare-supplement-guide-to-best-plan-company/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 16:18:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cris</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[California Medicare Supplement]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/?p=212</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[California Medicare Supplement Insurance can be extremely difficult to shop for as there are hundreds of options depending on where you live and how much you are willing to spend.  California is a very unique state to shop for Medicare Supplement Plans because there are a vast array of competitive Medicare Advantage Plans, a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">California Medicare Supplement</a> Insurance can be extremely difficult to shop for as there are hundreds of options depending on where you live and how much you are willing to spend.  California is a very unique state to shop for <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Plans</a> because there are a vast array of competitive Medicare Advantage Plans, a significant number Medicare Supplement Plans offered by multiple California health insurance companies, and a special guaranteed issue period just for California residents.   Therefore, it is extremely important to consult with the right experts to ensure you choose the best Medicare plan possible.<span id="more-212"></span></p>
<p>California Medicare Advantage Plans can be very competitive in the marketplace depending on where you live.  In highly populated areas such as Los Angeles, HMO&#8217;s are available at a very low price point and provide decent benefits.  However, when purchasing an HMO you must visit doctors and hospitals that participate in their network, and many experts and specialists do not.  There are also options available such as Private Fee for Service plans and PPO&#8217;s for people who live in rural and suburban areas throughout the state of California.  Two of our favorite companies offering these types of plans are Anthem Blue Cross and Humana.  The Anthem Blue Cross plan is a very good option as their is no monthly premium and great benefits.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.Medicaresupplementshop.com">California Medicare Supplement</a> Plans are offered by many different insurers including Anthem Blue Cross, AARP, Blue Shield, Aetna, Humana, Mutual of Omaha, Standard Life &amp; Accident, and many others.   Several of these companies have &#8220;A&#8221; ratings and excellent customer service, which places each company on a very level playing field.  However, when taking a close look at each company, it is easy to identify the leaders by how much they charge for their plans, and how much they increase their prices every year.   For example, Blue Shield and Anthem Blue Cross have very competitive rates for people turning 65.  However, these companies have huge price increases by the time you reach 70.  Companies like Mutual of Omaha and Standard Life &amp; Accident may cost a little more when you turn 65, but the price of these plans will only increase by a few dollars per year.  One of our favorite companies is AARP because they have very competitive rates, extra benefits including the &#8220;silver sneakers&#8221; program, and they raise their rates by only 3% each year, making them a great choice for most people.   However, it is important to consult with a broker who carries every company before making a decision as the Medicare Supplement landscape in California is constantly changing.</p>
<p>The advantage of buying <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">California Medicare Supplement</a> plans is that you will never be locked in regardless of your health condition or age.  This is because California residents have a special guaranteed issue period every year on their birthday, known as the &#8220;birthday rule&#8221;.   This rule means that you can switch to any insurance company every year on your birthday regardless of your health condition and as long as the plan has the same benefits or less.  For example, if you have Anthem Blue Cross <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Plan</a> F and are paying $140 per month, you can switch to Mutual of Omaha Medicare Supplement Plan F and pay only $120 per month regardless of any pre-existing health issues (Prices are Hypothetical and will vary depending on age and gender).   Many California residents who are not in excellent health save hundreds of dollars per year by using the birthday rule.</p>
<p>Shopping for <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">California Medicare Supplement</a> plans can be a difficult task, which is why it is extremely important to get unbiased advice from experts such as insurance brokers who carry every company and every plan.  These insurance brokers can point you in the right direction and may be able to provide valuable information regarding prescription drug plans, Medicare Supplement Plan changes and insurance company history.  Make sure to consider all options including Medicare Advantage Plans to be sure you are making a great decision.  For help from the knowledgable experts at Medicare Supplement Shop, please do not hesitate to call at (800) 807-0177.</p>
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		<title>Humana Medicare Supplement - great plans with &#8220;silver sneakers&#8221;</title>
		<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/humana-medicare-supplement-great-plans-with-silver-sneakers/</link>
		<comments>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/humana-medicare-supplement-great-plans-with-silver-sneakers/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:16:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cris</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Humana Medicare Supplement]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Plans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/?p=207</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Humana Medicare Supplement Plans are purchased by thousands of people turning 65 every year.  However, Humana is best known for their great prescreption drug plans and industry best Medicare Advantage Plans.  All Medicare supplement plans are standardized by the Center for Medicare Services, which means Humana offers the same exact benefits and plans [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Humana Medicare Supplement</a> Plans are purchased by thousands of people turning 65 every year.  However, Humana is best known for their great prescreption drug plans and industry best Medicare Advantage Plans.  All <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare supplement plans</a> are standardized by the Center for Medicare Services, which means Humana offers the same exact benefits and plans as every other insurance company.  So why do people purchase Humana Medicare Supplements?<span id="more-207"></span></p>
<p>Humana is one of the few insurance companies that offers a program called &#8220;silver sneakers&#8221; to all of their plan participants.  This program will pay for things many people find very important, such as fitness classes and gym memberships.  However, not all gyms and fitness classes participate in this program.  If fitness is important to you, this can be a great reason to purchase a <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Humana Medicare Supplement</a> as the only other well known insurance company that offers this program is AARP.</p>
<p>The benefit to Humana plans is the company has an &#8220;A&#8221; rating and offers &#8220;Silver Sneakers&#8221;.  However, their Medicare Supplement Plans tend to be very expensive in most parts of the country.  Keep in mind it is important to shop every insurance company to make sure you are receiving the very best price, because every insurance company offers the same exact plans and benefits.  From a cost perspective, <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Humana Medicare Supplement</a> Plans often only make sense if they are going to pay for your gym membership or fitness classes.</p>
<p>Humana Medicare Advantage plans are the most popular plans in the Medicare marketplace. They are offered in almost every county in the entire country and have a vast network of doctors and hospitals.  These plans are priced very well and often include prescription drug plans, but the copayments for doctors and hospitals can be very high.  In addition these plans often have networks, which not all doctors and hospitals participate in.  Therefore, it is very important to check with you physicians and local hospital to make sure they accept these plans before purchasing.</p>
<p>Humana Prescription Drug Plans are also very popular, especially for people who have a lot of generic prescriptions.  These plans cost about the same as their competitors on a monthly basis, but generic drugs are free when purchasing via mailorder.  This can be a huge benefit, especially for seniors who are on a limited budget or are looking to save some money.  It is also important to note these prescription drug benefits are included in many of their Medicare Advantage Plans.</p>
<p>At Medicare Supplement Shop, we carry almost every plan in every state and are happy to help you sort through the thousands of Medicare options to make sure you choose the plan that is best for you and your loved ones.   Please do not hesitate to give us a call at (800) 807-0177 if we can help in any way.</p>
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		<title>Medicare Supplement Insurance - Compare all Plans &amp; Prices!</title>
		<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-ins-compare-all-plans-prices/</link>
		<comments>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-ins-compare-all-plans-prices/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 2010 15:48:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cris</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Ins]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Insurance]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/?p=204</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Insurance is extremely important for people over 65 and determining which plan to purchase can be quite a challenging task.  Since all Medicare Supplement Plans are standardized by the Center for Medicare Services (CMS), it is important to shop all companies to make sure you get the very best price available.  [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Insurance</a> is extremely important for people over 65 and determining which plan to purchase can be quite a challenging task.  Since all <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Plans</a> are standardized by the Center for Medicare Services (CMS), it is important to shop all companies to make sure you get the very best price available.  The three most important things to consider when purchasing <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Insurance</a> are cost, coverage, and convenience.  Finding the perfect plan can significantly enhance your quality of care and ensure you will never be financially strained due to healthcare costs.<span id="more-204"></span></p>
<p><strong>Medicare Supplement Insurance</strong> plans are standardized by Medicare, which means every company offers the same exact plans and the same exact benefits.  This is important to understand because the only difference between <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplement Plan</a> F from Blue Cross and Medicare Supplement Plan F from Humana, is the price the insurance company will charge you.  Plan F always provides the same coverage regardless of which insurance company you choose.  If you get the same benefits from every company it makes sense to purchase the best plan from the company offering the best price.  From a cost perspective, there is no need to waste money on an expensive insurance company as you will get no extra benefit.  We encourage all customers to shop for all companies to make sure they get the very best price!</p>
<p>What Medicare Supplement Ins plan is best?  The most popular Medicare supplement plan is plan F, which is offered by almost every company.  The reason Medicare Supplement F is the most popular is because it offers very comprehensive coverage at a very reasonable price.  This plan will cover your Part A deductible, Part B deductible, Part A &amp; Part B Co-Insurance (20%), and Part B excess charges.  In addition, there are no networks so you can visit any doctor or hospital as long as they accept original Medicare.  This plan even covers you when you are traveling out of the country!   Medicare Supplement Plan G is very popular as well, and covers everything Plan F covers except the Part B deductible, which is $155 annually.</p>
<p>Convenience is the third factor you must consider when purhcasing a Medicare plan.  Freedom of choice is important, and you should be able to visit any doctor, specialist, and hospital you think will provide the best medical care.  Medicare Advantage plans have become very popular in recent years, but they have networks and are not accepted by many doctors or hospitals.   These plans can be great if you live in a big city such as New York or Los Angeles, but most people who don&#8217;t live in a major metropolitan area are much better off purchasing a Medicare Supplement Insurance policy because they will have greater flexibility when they receive care.</p>
<p>Finding the perfect Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan can be very difficult, and this is a very important decision whether you are just turning 65 or have been on Medicare for years.  The experts at Medicare Supplement Shop can provide valuable information about all Medicare plans and can give you free <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Insurance</a> quotes from every single company.   Giving them a quick call can save you time and make this difficult task quite easy.  They can be reached toll free at (800) 807-0177.</p>
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		<title>Medicare Supplement Quotes - Get Some Now, But Buyers Beware!</title>
		<link>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-quotes-get-some-now-but-buyers-beware/</link>
		<comments>http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/medicare-supplement-quotes-get-some-now-but-buyers-beware/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 06 Feb 2010 17:32:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cris</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Quotes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com/news/?p=201</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Medicare Supplement Quotes from multiple companies can be hard to find, but gathering all the necessary plan information and quotes can prove to be extremely valuable when purchasing a Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan.  Seniors across the nation, whether they are just turning 65 and enrolling in Medicare for the first time, or have been [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Quotes</a> from multiple companies can be hard to find, but gathering all the necessary plan information and quotes can prove to be extremely valuable when purchasing a <a href="http://www.medicaresupplementshop.com">Medicare Supplemental</a> Insurance Plan.  Seniors across the nation, whether they are just turning 65 and enrolling in Medicare for the first time, or have been on Medicare for years, search for hours to collect the right information in order to make a good choice.   Where they look, who they talk to, and where they get their quotes can have a dramatic effect on their out of pocket medical costs for the rest of their life.<span id="more-201"></span></p>
<p>Most Seniors start getting <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Quotes</a> from their local insurance man, but soon realize that the person who handles their auto and home owners insurance only offers one or two companies, and they are usually very expensive options.  Other seniors call companies they know and trust, such as AARP or Blue Cross.  This can be a good option as these quality insurance companies will provide good quotes and can have competitive prices in some areas.  However, the smart shopper knows he or she should compare prices from all companies to make sure they are getting the best bang for their buck.  There are companies who charge a fee for this information, but a national insurance broker who carriers every company and every plan can easily give you all the Medicare Supplement Quotes at the same time, eliminating hours of searching.</p>
<p>The insurance broker you speak with can provide all the information you need, but it is important to consult someone who offers unbiased advice.  Many agents in a call center are taught to only offer certain plans that pay the highest commission or are the easiest to sell.  These plans are not always the best solution for the person getting Medicare Supplement Quotes.  Therefore it is important to work with an insurance broker who is both honest and knowledgable.  The experts at Medicare Supplement Shop have been in the business for over 25 years and sit on several expert panels and advisory committees.</p>
<p>Good advice can be hard to find, and knowledge is everything when shopping for Medicare Supplement Insurance.  While getting <a href="http://www.MedicareSupplementShop.com">Medicare Supplement Quotes</a> from every company is extremely important, it is not the only thing that matters when shopping.  Several companies offer &#8220;teaser rates&#8221; which last only a year or two.  After the initial enrollment period is over, the insurance companies can raise Medicare Supplement prices dramatically, much to the dismay of the people who purchased the plan.  Consulting an expert who knows these companies well can be very beneficial when making a good decision.</p>
<p>At Medicare Supplement Shop, we recommend comparing prices and plans from multiple insurance companies and believe it is important to consider good customer service, financial stability, company quality, and pricing history when making a decision.  Over the years we have helped thousands of people make good decisions.  Please do not hesitate to call (800) 807-0177 if we can help.</p>
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