alt.social-security-disability

Fulio Pen wrote:

> I have Medicare Plan A only, but have never gone to a hospital yet. I
> may have to go to an emergency this time. I wonder how much will the
> co-pay be? I currently am with my working wife for medical
> insurance. With the benefits, my co-pay for emergency is $50. Is
> Plan A cheaper? Or Can I use both.
>
> My wife's insurance requires that one has to use Medicare first if
> they have. If using both, the insurance company will know that I am
> qualified for Plan B, too, but do not purchase it. It may bring
> troubles to me.
>
> Thanks for information and help.

If you are covered by your wife's insurance, it is ok not to have part
B. If she ever decides to retire and has insurance from her company that
continues, THAT is the time to make sure you purchase part B.

For emergency room I think that would be covered under your wife's
insurance unless you are admitted to the hospital within 24 hours in
which case it would be part A.

Generally if your wife works for a company with more than 100 employees
the group health plan would pay first. If less than 100, then Medicare
pays first. But different insurances have different arrangements with
medicare.

If you go to and put in the search "who pays first" you
will find a booklet that answers most of your questions.

Or call Medicare directly.
--
Barbara Needham