Question
My wife recently became eligible for medicare after becoming disabled in 2007.She receives SSDI.I' am an active employee with the state of Georgia and have uhc HMO coverage on myself ,my wife and children.The state obviously has over 20 employees.If we elect to take parts a %26 B will our uhc HMO still be primary payer?Will it be beneficial to enroll in part B my plan pays 80% will medicare pay the other 20%?Will they reduce my premium since I have medicare on her.I will be an active employee for at least 10 more yrs.I was advised not to enroll her in part D because the state health benefit plan would make medicare the primary and uhc HMO the secondary payer for pharmacy.Is it worth the medicare premiums or am I wasting the 96.40 a month.My wifes on going medical condition requires many tests ,chemo and other procedures.I have called uhc HMO,medicare and the shbp of Georgia and no one can seem to answer these questions.
Answer
Hi Paul
Most State plans are considered "creditable coverage" when compared to Medicare. Double check with your plan, There are two certificates for creditable coverage. One for medical, and one for Prescriptions. Sometimes they are combined.
With those certificates, the set up should be:
Your insurance is primary and premium remains the same.
She does not need part B until you leave work'
She does not need a Prescription Drug Plan(PDP) until you leave work.
When you leave work, her Medicare is her primary and she will need to get Part B and a PDP.
As long as she has the certificate of creditable coverage, sh will not get hit with late enrollment fees.
She should have just received a copy of MEDICARE AND YOU 2010. If not piak up a copy at thr Social Security Office.
John
