2014 Medicare Advantage Plans' Out-of-Pocket Caps Look Good For Consumers

Drug Plans with Low Cost-Sharing Limits and No Premiums Available

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Oct. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In an analysis of Medicare Advantage plans with a bundled prescription drug benefit (MAPD) based on data recently released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, HealthPocket found that many plans for 2014 have substantially lower maximum out-of-pocket caps than the current $6,700 limit for MA plans. In addition, the study found that some of the plans had a $3,400 or lower out-of-pocket cap and a zero premium—a very attractive combination for cost-conscious and low income seniors.

Medicare enrollees must make their health plan selections during the annual enrollment period from October 15 to December 7. A common choice these consumers face is between a traditional Medicare plan augmented with a Supplemental plan and Part D prescription plan, or a MA plan with prescription drug coverage purchased through a private insurance company. Patterns show that MAPD plans are growing in popularity, and the picture for these plans in 2014 is compelling with plan options that offer no or low premiums and a low out-of-pocket maximum.

"Consumers looking to save on their direct costs under Medicare are going to have some good options heading into 2014," said Steve Zaleznick, executive director for Consumer Strategy and Development at HealthPocket.com. "But Medicare enrollees need to factor in other criteria like whether their doctors and hospitals are in a plan's network, whether their current medications are covered, and the amount charged for specific medical services they may need in the coming year. Quality scores should inform a final decision, too, and as with any big purchase, it pays to do your research."

During the open enrollment period, consumers can compare the features of traditional Medicare, MA and prescription drug plans, including premiums as well as other costs and benefits using sources including HealthPocket's free Medicare comparison tool.

About HealthPocket
HealthPocket.com is a free website that compares and ranks all health plans available to an individual, family, or small business, so everyone can make their best health plan decision and save on their out of pocket costs. The Company uses only objective data from government, non-profit, and private sources that carry no conditions that might restrict the site from serving as an unbiased resource. The founders of HealthPocket.com spent decades pioneering online access to health insurance information and knew they could offer something different that can positively change how people buy and use healthcare in the U.S. Learn more at www.HealthPocket.com.

SOURCE HealthPocket

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