Illinois Senior Health Insurance

September 7, 2011 Category: Health, Medicare

Reaching senior status is a unique experience. In many ways, it is a glorious time to reflect on your life and enjoy your family. However, in most cases, as we age, we tend to suffer from more health related problems. This is why it is extremely important to secure a comprehensive health insurance plan now, while you are healthy and feeling good.

Perhaps you are getting ready to retire and are wondering what will happen to your health insurance. Or, you may be eligible for Medicare but would like to learn a little about obtaining a Medicare supplement plan to pay for expenses that are not covered. In any case, familiarizing yourself with Illinois senior health insurance will help you make the right choices when it comes time to make changes to your health care coverage.

Medicare Options

Medicare is health insurance available to all seniors in Illinois 65 or older. There are two ways to get Medicare coverage-through Original Medicare or through a Medicare Advantage Plan, like an HMO or a PPO. Generally, Original Medicare includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (Medical insurance). A Medicare Advantage Plan, sometimes referred to as Part C, includes Part A, Part B and usually Part D (prescription drug coverage).

Option 1

If you decide to join Original Medicare, you have your choice of doctors, hospitals and other providers, but you must pay any and all deductibles, coinsurance and usually a monthly premium for Part B. In addition, if you want prescription drug coverage, you must join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan offered through a private insurer. You do have the option of purchasing Medigap insurance through a private insurer that will help to fill gaps in Original Medicare coverage.

Option 2

If you choose to join a Medicare Advantage plan, prescription drug coverage is often included. Medicare Advantage Plans are also sold through private insurance providers. More than likely, you will have to use the doctors assigned to the plans network. However, you will not need Medigap insurance, because your Medicare Advantage Plan covers gaps in Original Medicare.

Retirement

In many cases, when you retire, your employer may decide to continue your health care benefits through your group plan. However, this is not always the case. If you know that your insurance will not continue, take steps to ensure that you have coverage by obtaining COBRA or a short term policy offered through a private insurer. It is extremely important that you not have a lapse in health care coverage once your employer benefits expire. Particularly if you have a pre-existing condition, it will be difficult to obtain new insurance.

Senior Insurance from a Trusted Name

There are many choices out there when it comes to securing senior health insurance in Illinois. Don’t make the mistake of choosing quickly without understanding the importance of reliability and dependability. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois has been providing seniors just like you with quality health insurance for over 70 years. Trustworthy service that puts your needs first is important for ensuring your health care needs are protected. Whether you are looking to add prescription drug coverage or Medigap insurance to Medicare coverage, looking to purchase a Medicare Advantage Plan or even in need of short term coverage after retirement, consider Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and get the peace of mind that comes from making the right choices for you and your family.