Kristi

[kristi_alford]

Hi, I am 65 years old and just found out it's time for me to find a Kidney! I have Polycystic Kidney and liver Disease which I inherited from my mother. I also have a brain Aneurysm. I have to get that fixed first before I go on an active list. Has anyone else had this? I am trying to find a Medicare plan to help pay expenses for all this. Does anyone have a good plan that pays well for Dialysis? I would appreciate any feed back.

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

Hi Kristi, Find an insurance broker. I will give the info on mine. They will connect you with the best insurance and drug plan. Being 65, you should be moving to Medicare. There is no charge for using a broker, they get paid by the insurance companies. There is no conflict of interest. Mine has me on a great plan that literally pays for everything. I pay a deductible for my drugs and then they are also cheap.

Kathy Coler

Insurance Broker

NPN# 17845243

585-298-6288

kathycoler.com

[Beachgirl32]

welcome Kristi I also have polycystic kidney and cyst in my liver . I have had one aneurysm clipped one bust and I have another one now. If you can get it clip or coil if your health is ok yes do it. The one they found on me in may put me inactive on transplant list . I went to two differnt doctors it was decided with my history to watch this aneurysm the doctor said it would not interfere with me getting a transplant so he approved to put me back on active list . I broke my foot in October and had sepsis blood infection put me in active again . But you still argue your time when you are in active .

I know I had to be 65 and seven months to be on Medicare so don’t know when your start. But there are lots of good supplements out there I use aarp united health care a lot of my meds are zero with Medicare and the supplement my medical test have been cover I use WellCare for prescription.

You must of already talk to transplant center to know you have to fix thing before active at transplant center they have a social worker she can help you with any insursance questions and medical billing questions so look into that resource .

[Darlenia]

People experiencing permanent kidney failure (ESRD) requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant are eligible for Medicare coverage - there is no age restriction. People with ESRD can choose either Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan when deciding how to get Medicare coverage. Original Medicare is gov't based and coverage is nationwide whereas Medicare Advantage Plans are largely industry based; hence restricted to doctors "in network" and often limited to certain regions and state control. (Basically, Medicare shuffles over a pot of money to the Advantage Care insurance companies and they take over your health matters.) That can be problem for some folks, not so much for others.

Since my hubby was interested in getting a transplant, he signed up for Original Medicare - Medicare Parts A, B, D and a supplemental plan. My hubby wanted to be listed at two transplant centers, quite distant from each other, so Medicare and a supplemental plan (AARP United) was an easy choice. Others may choose or value staying close to home. Even though doctor and region restricted, Advantage Plans are less expensive and that can play a major role too. My husband did go through kidney failure, dialysis, and a transplant - at a more distant center. To date, he has paid nothing for dialysis and several hospitalizations including the transplant with the approach he took. He also pays nothing for his transplant meds and others; however, he does pay out-of-pocket for insulin which runs around $50 a month. Each state has their own licensed insurance brokers who can discuss all of this with you. Medicaresupp.org can refer you to one based on your zip code - they handle both Medicare+supplemental plans and Medicare advantage plans. Sometimes, the dialysis centers and transplant centers can help you with that too. Please keep in mind that brokers receive commissions which may influence their advice. If you keep the important distinguishing features of the two types in mind as well as your personal interest, I'm sure you will help you come up with the right decision for you.

[RhenDutchess123]

If you are on Dialysis you are eligible for Medicare and they take your payment out of your Social Security check, but please know Medicare only pays 80% so you will need a Supplement to pick up the 20%...My Medicare and Supplement cost around $360 per month, but pays most everything...I use Blue Cross for my Supplement and feel they have met my needs...As Darlenia suggested an Insurance Broker will help you navigate all this...Best Wishes for you

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador]

Hi Kristi,

Not that brokers aren't good, as they are and do the leg work for you, but the one my brother saw only had information from the companies that she represented.

He is entering Medicare in February with several serious medical issues.

Just an idea; we looked into The SHINE program. Google the one in your area, and or call your local Council on Aging.

They are not brokers, but highly trained volunteers who assist people on Medicare or going on to medicare match the best and most affordable companies and plans to meet your needs. They don't make decisions for you but have access to all companies.

No fee involved and they do not work for various insurance companies.

Also, if you call the business office at your hospital they also should be able to give you phone numbers to SHINE programs.

We weren't thrilled with the person in our area, Metro Hospital gave us a listing if all in their area which was commuting distance. We saw someone and he even got the selected company over the phone to enroll for us.

Also, speak to your doctor about patient assistance programs. My brother qualified for help via them from the drug company.

It's an annoyance but it will work out.

Let us know what your outcome is.

In your corner,

Bet

[Helloyall]

I thi I they all pay for dialysis, they have to. It us the transplant that they make you jump through hoops yo get authorization. I don't have anything specific and it also depends what is available in your area. If you can afford it straight Medicare but I doubt you will be able to buy a suppliment plan. If you can they will exclude kidney related for at least 5 years.