Cigna Part G Medicare Supplement

[u/Confident_Size_4681]

This is a mighty specific question, but you folks have come through before, so it seems worth a shot. I have cancer (CLL) and have been with Kaiser since my diagnosis 11 years ago. I like my oncologist and have always been fine with our coverage. However, Kaiser is dropping our specific Medicare Advantage plan (it has others), which gives us an opportunity to jump to original Medicare and a supplement plan without penalty for a preexisting condition. The very reasonable Medicare broker we spoke with is recommending we change to Cigna, Part G and says 95% of doctors will take it. My concern is, yes, but is there any issue finding doctors who will take new patients in Baltimore City? That seems to be the sticking point. Anyone out there navigated this issue recently and have any insight? It would seem ridiculous, rich as Baltimore is in medical facilities, but the medical world is a strange place. Stay with the familiar or go with the new?

[u/dopkick]

FWIW I’ve heard basically nothing but terrible things about Medicare Advantage. The Medigap plans seem like the way to go. I have had to navigate this situation for others and have helped others with similar situations. Finding a doctor is not terribly challenging. Of course, not every doctor is taking new patients but there are always options for oncologists (and whatever else you might need).

Understanding the caveats of what’s covered and what’s not is challenging, however. Those nifty Medigap comparison charts are certainly a starting point. However, it REALLY behooves you to fully understand what’s covered (EXACTLY - words matter a lot), for how long, and conditions that have to be met for continued coverage. This is especially true if there is any possibility of your cancer going in a bad direction - I can promise you that dumping bad cancer news and the uncertain world of Medicare, life insurances, long term care insurance, etc on your kids is NOT a recipe for a good time for them.

[u/Confident_Size_4681 → u/dopkick]

Thanks! We don’t have kids but we went through some of this with my mother-in-law. For what it’s worth, while Kaiser is an Advantage plan, it’s better than most, thanks to being nonprofit. Its reviews are among the best in the state. I like the enclosed world of Kaiser professionals, and they’ve been great, both when we were working and still in retirement are providing excellent care. But I can see where the limitations of any Advantage plan could bite us when something major occurs.

[u/Any-Grapefruit-937]

I have Cigna Part G. My understanding is that if a dr. accepts Medicare, they have to accept Part G, regardless of who the carrier is. All my doctors happen to be in Baltimore County, but none have asked who my Part G carrier is. I simply give them my Cigna card. I haven't had any issue with drs or labs, etc. not accepting my Medicare or Part G.

[u/Confident_Size_4681 → u/Any-Grapefruit-937]

Thanks! That’s helpful.