Medicare Supplement Insurance for Texas Seniors

Medicare supplement insurance helps some residents of Texas, but not every senior citizen needs it. I belong to the latter group. 


First, my Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) covers most needs of my wife and I, and we feel comfortable with the reasonable co-payments. 


In addition, when the South Florida newspaper where I worked for more than three decades reneged on a free $20,000 life insurance after my retirement because of cost cutting, it did set up a $10,000 medical account that covers what my HMO in San Antonio doesn’t pay, including prescriptions. 


The reason not every Texan needs a supplement policy is certain other types of health insurance cover the gaps. Seniors probably don’t need additional coverage if they: 


*Have group insurance through an employer or former employer, including government or military retirement plans. That’s because those continuing to work after their 65th birthday can keep their group health insurance; likewise those covered by their employed spouse’s policy. 


Many retirees who decided to remain in Greater San Antonio served in the Armed Forces and were stationed in bases around the area. 


*Belong to a Medicare Advantage plan. In order to qualify, you must have both Medicare Part A and Part B, no end-stage renal disease and live in an area that offers it. 


Medicare pays a monthly premium to the Medicare Advantage plan to provide health care like it does to my HMO. However, an additional premium and co-payment might be required each time the service is used. 


*Receive Medicaid or are a Qualified Medicare Beneficiary. This program is for beneficiaries needing help to pay for Medicare services. First, they must have Medicare Part A, plus limited income and resources. 


For those who qualify, Medicaid pays Part A and Part B premiums, plus deductibles and co-insurance amounts for Medicare services.