Gee, how surprising is that? Also, a very nice non-client wonders whether she and hubby were granted a deserved "12% Household Discount" from their Medicare supplement company. Finally, a new client credits my book plus Suze Orman's Podcast for her "Kick Butt" Medicare knowledge. Just a few questions remain to be answered... Contact me at: DBJ@MLMM…

How about a clash of the Titans? Omaha's own Warren Buffet was gifted a McDonald's Gold Card, good for a lifetime of free eats at any McDonald's in his home town. In contrast, Bill Gate's Gold Card is good anywhere in the world! Amazon is expanding it's $5 monthly pharmacy benefit with a limited formulary. It won't beat this year's most popular Par…

Reading the smoke signals, it's starting to look like increasing costs and decreasing benefits will be on the MA menu for next year. Keep an eye on Humana and CVS. Inflation watch: Fierce Health says that many hospitals are operating in the red in spite of higher revenue. Finally, graphic proof that my recommendation of High Deductible Plan G has a…

Your government has spent considerable time and resources devising games to use as training tools for those working with Medicare. The least you can do is pretend to enjoy the fruits of their labors! Also, we haven't forgotten about the Medicare Advantage Minute! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR …

In each episode there will be a short piece describing a noteworthy element of the MA world. As I always say, a Medicare Advantage plan is just fine until one actually needs to use it! Medicare Supplement Plan G shows a trend toward higher rate increases while an example of a High Deductible plan G increase is about $1 per month for one particular …

It always ends with your lawyer making sure your wishes are legal and properly communicated. How does one get started? Look for and download the simple but thorough questionnaire we describe in order to get things rolling in a painless and organized way. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY …

Correspondence with clients; They come up with some of the darndest things! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com. Return to leave a short customer review & help future readers. Official website: https://www.MedicareForTheLazyMan.com.…

Abrupt exit leaves 30,000 members scrambling to find new insurance next year. The smart ones will take advantage of Guaranteed Issue Rights and purchase Medicare Supplement plans! BC/BS of Illinois abruptly stops paying commissions on 3 Medicare Advantage plans in three of their five state BC/BC companies. What gives? Finally, we list eight things …

This is my favorite part of the job! Medicare is a complex set of circumstances no one source can anticipate all of the questions that will occur to those who enroll. Curious and thoughtful clients often come up with a wide range of questions; loose ends that are best neatly tied up at the conclusion or our business together. This is my favorite pa…

Enjoy the fun as I quiz Randy on these basic Medicare facts and then neglect to keep score! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A++) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com. Return to leave a short customer review & help future readers. Official website: https://www.MedicareForT…

The world of MA plans appears to be entering a period of turmoil and pressure for change from outside sources. Will they be able to maintain the level of growth they have been enjoying in recent years? Also, new client Dean speaks very highly of the affordable and high quality state of health care in Panama! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most …

Check out the average earnings of 40 medical specialties. Do they really earn their compensation? Should that compensation be even more substantial? First, find out why Trinity Health has taken a stand against insurance giant UnitedHealth in a fight for their financial survival. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by…

A highly respected Medicare expert stops short of guiding his client to the best, most money-saving plan available. Also, check out the many absolutely free preventive services offered to women under Medicare. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on …

Great news: the dopes promoting Calcare, Canadian style single payor plan in California have had their posteriors handed to them! How about those anti-aging drugs they wanted to give to little kids? Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com.…

The growth in Medicare Advantage enrollment is in large part due to retirees who have been promised lifetime medical insurance being forced into MA plans; sometime against their wishes! Do you in an insurance agency with 15 warm bodies hanging around? If so, get ready for your new, government mandated non-discrimination czar! Contact me at: DBJ@MLM…

MA carriers are bracing for tough times; CVS says it is willing to say good-bye to 10% of their members. A basic primer: What does Medicare NOT cover? This includes a note about MA plans accused of denying medically necessary treatment for patients that would be treated without question under original Medicare. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Mo…

MA plans are preparing to undergo financial stress in coming years. This may cause them to cut back on the extra benefits some of them include. One carrier was cited as choosing "(profit) margins over (adding) membership"! Enterprising insurance agents in Utah may have devised a clever way to excuse rate increases to their clients: blame them on th…

RSV stands for "Respiratory Syncytial Virus". We wade into a description of the disease plus some information about the vaccines. Finally, what American sport draws its players and fans from the older ages than any other? PICKLEBALL! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & …

According to our first article, Plan F is Changing from a Cadillac into a Yugo! The prognosis is even worse with many large rate increases just ahead. A widowed acquaintance asked me for help just days after her husband (my old friend) suffered an untimely death. Instead of taking my advice, she ignored my warnings and allowed herself to be victimi…

As an example, Humana is planning to terminate plans in some areas, citing the fact that rising costs are squeezing profits. Question: can an employer force an employee of it's plan and on to Medicare? Walmart decides to close all of its 51 medical clinics. Finally, we review the mental health benefits offered by Medicare. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMai…

We list six signs that indicate the imminent need for hiring home health care aides. After that list, consulting the "What's covered" app tells us whether and to what extent these services are covered by Medicare. Also, learn about three big changes coming to Medicare in 2025! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: …

We have some fun answering a listener question about physical examinations with the help of the "What's Covered" iPhone app. Get your Crayons & construction paper ready to take notes: we list 13 of somebody's idea of the best retirement podcasts. Finally, the definition of "old age" moves from 71 up to 74. Damn, I'm still a loser! Contact me at: DB…

One of the concerns with AI is that it will replace caring medical professionals. A visitor to the website used the (soon to be removed) chat feature to ask if his state allows insurance companies to off High Deductible Plan G.. One problem: I have no idea where he or she lives! Finally, nationwide troubles with Medicare Advantage plans have caused…

Long term stays in skilled nursing facilities: what happens when Medicare payments peter out? One course of action is to appeal to Medicare for relief from the payment denial. We list the steps in the appeals process. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ev…

Also, a medical expert expresses his opinion on the value of colorectal screening for older people. ESRD: end stage renal disease, finally accepted by MA plans although Medicare has a bunch of special rules surrounding the transplant process. Benefit changes, acquisitions and divestitures; do we see turmoil coming in the near future for Advantage p…

The hospital CEO reports layoffs and financial stress caused by "delayed and denied payments" due from Medicare Advantage plans. Also, Sen. Rand Paul reports that AARP is a fraud, working against the wishes of up to 85% of members in order to continue reaping wealth from their unholy alliance with United Healthcare. Finally, many large medical prov…

GPT: Generative Pre-trained Transformer - A person called Medicare Dana from Austin, TX questioned Chat GPT about how old farts feel about things nowadays. We hold an extensive discussion as to how this "tool" is usurping trained human experts and possibly being used as a money-saving shortcut by medical practitioners; sometimes with fatal results!…

Government crackdown on MA crooks causes inconvenience for ethical agents, too! Efforts to improve the outcomes in prior authorization denials will be concentrated on poor people only. It is almost as though these disgusting Medicare Advantage practices never affect middle class or wealthy victims. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe cri…

If you have trouble motivating yourself to undergo an eye examination, buy some reasonably priced VSP vision insurance from me! This will remove the financial impediment to regular vision care. Also, Wellcare is terminating its contract with Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada. I hope their members don't have need of this specialized level of tr…

All tests, procedures & items are arranged alphabetically for maximum entertainment value! Also, the burden of getting medical care can exhaust older patients! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A++) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com. Return to leave a short customer revi…

Opinions conflict on whether there is value in knowing about amyloid deposits are being formed in our brains, but the test is available for you to purchase. Also, we go through the methods of funding the need for long term care. Finally, the Medicare Advantage world is all a-twitter about the possibility of base pay being capped and agent compensat…

Stock prices have tumbled amid much wailing and gnashing of teeth, These plans are contemplating raising premiums and cutting benefits in order to maintain profitability. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com. Return to leave a short cus…

Accountants know that every penny should be accounted for in any transaction. Trying to do that in Medicare just might drive you over the edge! Also, what should you do about Medicare and Social Security when you move? Finally, good news for United Healthcare Medicare Advantage members in North Carolina... for the time being! Contact me at: DBJ@MLM…

Medicare, Social Security and other welfare programs will continue without interruption if there is a federal government shutdown. Humana has been accused of using an AI platform with a 90% error rate to deny care to patients who died as a result. We discovered a Medicare MSA plan in Wisconsin! Finally, get ready for Medicare Advantage cuts to take…

Turns out using faulty AI platforms for treatment decisions results in accelerated deaths and expensive legal action at some of the biggest Medicare Advantage plans! Also, what has been learned from the activity during AEP 2023? Finally, what is the difference between phishing and smishing? Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+)…

Also, many doctors are touting their new concierge physician practices! The fees you pay to join will be in addition to any insurance payments. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com. Return to leave a short customer review & help future …

Under Medicare we are given: 1) A one time "Welcome to Medicare" visit to plan future preventive care 2) Annual Medicare wellness visits to keep one on track. Also, a shortage of primary care docs plus Medicare AAdvantage prior authorization rules create undue delays in getting medical care. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+…

More and more Medicare Advantage plans are severing relationships with hospitals (and doctors) in their networks. This leaves thousands of patients scrambling to find new providers and to escape from their draconian Advantage plans. Finally, listen to my reading of a hit piece from Rolling Stone; at least until I became sickened by the false accusa…

I may never enjoy Jell-O again! What the heck is Ejiao? Enjoy hearing from some happy clients who are no longer being abused by their evil Medicare Advantage plans, thanks to yours truly! Finally, join us in celebrating "National Doctors With Their Hands Out" Day! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR…

Most insurance brokers won't spill the beans but a Birthday Rule allows one to move to the most cost-effective plan: High Deductible Plan G. No proof of good health required! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com. Return to leave a short…

Listen to the list of medical facilities that refuse to accept patients who are insured by at least some of the Advantage plans available to them. Also, we share a list of the top five problems with living in "active adult" developments. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simples…

The passage of time causes Plan G rate increases. High Deductible Plan G then becomes more and more desirable as the best Medicare supplement ever! Also, keep your eyes open for the passage of "Medicare Supplement Birthday Rules" in your state. These can present a great moneysaving opportunity for those who are covered by supplement plans. Medicare…

Also, learn about three very rare Medicare Advantage plans you just might like: 1) HMO-POS (Health Maintenance Organization - Point Of Service) 2) PFFS (Private Fee-For-Service) 3) Medicare MSA (Medical Savings Account) Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide …

Also, enjoy a taste of early Cave Creek history! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com. Return to leave a short customer review & help future readers. Official website: https://www.MedicareForTheLazyMan.com.…

Take a deep dive with us into the fantastic Pontiac GTO of Medicare supplement plans: the High Deductible Plan G (HDG). This plan has big savings, limited risk and low, low cost. HDG is the most cost effective Medicare supplement one can buy! Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Si…

Some Medicare Advantage networks are losing their hospitals and docs. Two of the largest Medicare Advantage insurers lost money and stock value. The Feds are threatening to claw back $88 billion in MA overpayments! Some sources say there was overpayment in the trillions of dollars. A study has shown that Medicare Advantage participants get fewer ho…

Randy goes green. Should you be taking a daily aspirin as a preventative? Also, another go-round with Long Term Care insurance; Should you consider buying Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com. Return to leave a short customer review & h…

LTC actuaries speculate about the effect of interest rates and lapse rates. Also, a nostalgic visit to Greasewood Flat, old time western bar in Scottsdale, Arizona. Also, abject apologies to an unnamed State Farm insurance agency. Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+) Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Eas…

Need a couple of yuks? Try "PissedConsumer.com"! Learn the Medicare Advantage prior authorization appeals process so you can be ready if they refuse to treat you. Robert writes a columnist to learn why his COBRA coverage is only paying 20% of his huge medical bills. Finally, does Medicare mail out invoices for Part B premiums for those not yet on S…

We list several ways to tell the difference between age related memory loss and the more serious and problematic Alzheimer's Disease. A Tennessean was too cheap to pay for Part B of Medicare. The resulting invoice for an air ambulance trip created a burden for her survivors. Finally, listen to seven things that Medicare does not cover. Contact me a…