What USA city for Medicare?

[ricklev]

I recently turned 65 and enrolled in Medicare although although not in part B yet.  

 

I figure with part B it may be useful for catastrophic coverage, if I can get back there.  I do have Thai insurance but it is only 5 million baht and not that great.  

 

I wonder if other people have researched the best/cheapest city to go to if need be?  I no longer have family ties in the USA.  

 

Thanks.  

 

 

[jas007]

17 minutes ago, ricklev said:

I recently turned 65 and enrolled in Medicare although although not in part B yet.  

 

I figure with part B it may be useful for catastrophic coverage, if I can get back there.  I do have Thai insurance but it is only 5 million baht and not that great.  

 

I wonder if other people have researched the best/cheapest city to go to if need be?  I no longer have family ties in the USA.  

 

Thanks.  

 

 

One thing you should consider is whether doctors in the area are likely to accept Medicare patients.  In some parts of the country, it may be more difficult to find doctors who will "accept assignment" of Medicare benefits, or to even find a doctor who will accept Medicare patients in the first place.  For example,, if you're on Medicare, the Mayo Clinic won't even accept you as a patient (as of the last time I looked). "

 

Accepting assignment" of benefits is common, and just means that you assign your Part B benefits payment to the doctor before treatment, and, in return, the doctor accepts  whatever Medicare benefit is allowed as payment in full.  Doctors do this because payment is made to them very quickly, and they're assured of payment.  

 

As for what city?  I'd look for a low cost city in the Midwest, perhaps, with good medical facilities. Louisville, Indianapolis, Columbus, Cincinnati.  Something like that.  If you have to stay there for an expended period for whatever reason, it won't break the bank.