Mason Soiza: Managing Your Health Care Costs Prior To Medicare Benefits?

Currently, health care reform is a hot topic, with opinions very passionate on both sides of the argument about how the health system can be better transform. However, many people agree that something should be done to reduce the cost of medical care. A staggering population of Americans have severe health needs that they choose to ignore due to the cost of treatment. In particular, people with disabilities have many health problems and often have difficulty receiving adequate treatment. Some people with disabilities are entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which offers them regular medical benefits and monthly income. One of the main advantages of SSDI is to get Medicare benefits. But people have to wait 24 months to qualify for the Medicare SSDI application.

So what do you do if you need money for medical treatment now and you cannot wait 2 years? Although there is no way to avoid these 24 months of waiting, except in cases of end-stage renal disease or Lou Gehrig’s disease, it is possible to reduce the costs of health care before you can apply for Medicare. Once you are qualified for Medicare, you must also make sure that you sign up for the right plan for your health and financial status. Treatment of healthcare costs before the Medicare qualification.

Mason Soiza

Even if you receive Medicare and SSDI benefits, it is important to maintain existing health insurance. Find out if you can benefit from the insurance cover of your partner from another private insurer. If you have taken out health insurance with your former employer, you may be eligible for COBRA. Now, COBRA offers you a chance to sustain the group health plan of your employer for up to 18 months after your employment ends. You can benefit from an 11-month extension if you receive SSDI benefits. Your next step is to negotiate for lower health costs, however, start with an investigation. Determine the typical cost of the procedure you need and the cost normally charged by your doctor or hospital. Do not be afraid to look around and see if you can make it cheaper in another hospital or in a qualified medical office in the area. It does not hurt to ask the doctor if he can give you a discount. Find out if the property offers free financing or prepayment options.

Lastly, see how it reduces prescription drug cost. According to the Food and Drug Administration, many expensive recipes have generic alternatives that do their job well and save between 50% and 70%. However, always talk to your doctor before switching to a new drug or general medicine. In addition, many large pharmaceutical companies offer financial assistance programs to people with limited resources. Eligibility varies depending on the insurance provider. These programs however, must be designed to potentially reduce the costs of health care. Many states also have policies that can help pay prescription drugs. Each state has its eligibility rules. The privilege of Medicare also presents its challenges. Depending on where you live, you can have more than one Medicare plans.