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Tailoring Your Coverage: 4 Reasons to Consider Separate Medicare Plans as a Couple

Aug 21, 2024

Medicare Supplement Plan

Medicare Advantage plan Medicare Advantage plan

Let's face it - even the strongest marriages involve a healthy dose of individuality. This applies to your health as well. Though living together and sharing a life, you and your partner may have distinct medical needs and preferences. While a shared Medicare plan can be a great option for some couples, others might find a more customized approach through separate coverage. Here are 4 key reasons why you and your partner might benefit from considering separate Medicare plans.

1. You Prefer to See Different Doctors

Just because you're married doesn't mean you have to share the same doctor. Perhaps you've built a long-standing relationship with a physician who perfectly suits your needs, while your spouse prefers a more specialized approach. Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans often have designated networks of doctors and hospitals. If you both want the flexibility to see your preferred providers, separate plans with broader network coverage may be better.

2. You Need Coverage for Specific Drugs

Many Medicare Advantage plans come with a formulary, a list of covered medications. These formularies can vary significantly between plans. If you or your spouse rely on specific medications not covered by a shared plan or if the plan only offers a less-preferred brand, separate plans can ensure you both receive the medications you need at an affordable price.

3. You’re Looking for Different Benefits

Medicare Advantage plans offer a variety of benefits beyond basic hospital and doctor coverage. These may include vision, dental, hearing coverage, or even gym memberships. Perhaps one of you prioritizes dental care, while the other values additional vision coverage. Separate plans allow you to tailor your benefits to your individual needs and preferences.

4. You or Your Spouse Live with a Chronic Condition

If you or your spouse manages a chronic condition, such as diabetes or heart disease, your Medicare needs may differ significantly. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer specialized disease management programs tailored to specific conditions. By having separate plans, you can each choose a plan with the specific programs and benefits that best support your individual health needs.

Deciding Together

While separate plans offer some advantages, weighing the pros and cons together is important. Consider factors like:

  • Budget: Individual plans may have different monthly premiums. Evaluate the combined cost of separate plans versus a shared plan.
  • Convenience: Managing two separate plans may require a bit more administrative work.
  • Coordination of Care: If you share doctors or specialists, separate plans may require some additional communication to ensure a smooth flow of medical information.

Also Read : Signing Up for Medicare: What You Need to Know Before You Enroll

Navigate the Complex World of Medicare with Senior Services Insurance Agency

At Senior Services Insurance Agency, our experienced agents are dedicated to helping you navigate the complex world of Medicare. We can explain your options and guide you toward the coverage right for you, as a couple or individuals. Don't settle for a one-size-fits-all approach to Medicare. Contact us today to understand your specific situation. Call us at (800) 952 9101 to find the Medicare coverage that best supports your health and well-being, both individually and as a couple.

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