Medicare and Veterans

By Marc Manor

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One day I was in a Veterans Administration (VA) clinic waiting to be helped. I overheard a man complaining that he was charged over $1000 from the nearby military hospital for emergency services.  Of course, I had no way of knowing this man’s VA status or the history of his military service, but he looked to be a Vietnam era veteran.  While I did not really know anything about this fellow Veteran, I could not help but wonder what the circumstances were regarding this bill he received.  He returned to his seat next to me, and I asked him if he tried submitting a claim to Medicare or his healthcare plan.  He said he only received medical care from the VA and he did not have Medicare or any other healthcare insurance.  I did not question him further, but it seemed like he did not understand he could have Medicare while using his VA benefits.

What options do Veterans have when it comes to healthcare after become Medicare eligible in civilian life?

HMO Is Not a Four-Letter Word

 By Marc Manor

In the course of talking to people about Healthcare or Medicare Plans, I sometimes hear the words “no-way!” when the subject of HMOs or Health Maintenance Organizations come up.  In certain circumstances, after hearing why this immediate response was given, I totally understand.  Other times, I think these negative opinions are derived from “urban legends” or based on “what happened to my friend’s friend.”  Anyone could have a bad experience for any number of reasons on any type healthcare plan.  A healthcare plan is not necessarily bad just because it’s an HMO.  It may not be the right fit for some people; however, there are some things you should know before you just write-off a plan just because it is an HMO.