Letter to Dispatch: Medicare Advantage drawbacks

From John Curry, December 6, 2009

Medicare Advantage plans have drawback

Columbus Dispatch, December 6, 2009

I respond to last Sunday's letter "Medicare Advantage good fit for elderly," from Roger Shipe, concerning House Resolution 3962 and Medicare Advantage plans. Although these plans seem to work well for senior citizens with minor illnesses, the same isn't true for those facing a catastrophic illness.

I work at an oncology practice, and we see many patients who find that their plans have a cost share of 5 percent to 30 percent, and they might have to pay up to $4,500-$6,000 out of pocket per year in addition to their co-pays.

So while you may save money by not purchasing a supplemental plan, in the end you might have to pay much more.

The plans also are very limited as to which hospitals may accept their insurance.

TERESA SINITSKY
Columbus

http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/editorials/stories/2009/12/06/Sinitsky_ART_12-06-09_G4_PKFSPNE.html?sid=101