Cancer-free, better Medigap coverage, lower premiums

When Richard signed up for Medicare Supplement insurance he had recently been treated for cancer. He had chosen a Plan N with Blue Cross Blue Shield and it was costing him $127/month.

When Laura Pecina met Richard, he had been cancer free for over 4 years. Laura explained that some carriers only look back a few years on cancer, so they decided to apply for a Plan G with CSI Life.

CSI Life accepted him, and his new premium is $117/month. Although Richard is only saving $10/month, he also is getting better coverage. Plan N policies tend to be less expensive, but they do not cover Part B deductibles or excess charges, and they also require a Part B copayment of up to $20 for some office visits and up to a $50 copayment for emergency room visits.

On the other hand, Plan G policies do cover Part B excess charges, and there are no Part B copayments. The Part B deductible is $147 for 2015.

• Old Plan N with BCBS: $1524/yr
• New Plan G with CSI Life: $1404/yr
• Savings + Better Coverage: $120/yr

If you've had cancer, or other diseases or illnesses, don't assume you're stuck with what you have. Contact us to learn your options.