Medicare Open Enrollment is Over, but not Obamacare, yet

While the Open Enrollment Period (OEP)was over for most senior citizens on December 7, those who are duo eligible (have both Medicare and Medicaid), or have a chronic illness such as diabetes can change or replace Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage or a Prescription drug plan anytime throughout the year. Also, specific situations, such as moving into a new area of realizing an eligibility change can allow you a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

However, if you are not yet eligible for Medicare, you are vulnerable to Obamacare, and all of its problems. If you have been able to enroll on healthcare.gov, you are “lucky”. And, if you did enroll you probably discovered that you had an increase in premiums along with a higher deductible and co-payments. Keep in mind that although you have enrolled, you do not have insurance until you have paid the first premium.

Here’s why your premiums have gone up: Obamacare has the requirement that insurance policies has to cover “ten essential health benefits”. Obamacare requires you to pay for these benefits whether or not you want them or need them. For example, a childless person must pay for a plan that includes pediatric services.

Now, here are these ten essential health benefits:
1. Ambulatory patient services
2. Hospitalization
3. Prescription drugs
4. Prevention and wellness care.
5. Emergency services
6. Maternity and newborn care.
7. Rehabilitation services
8. Laboratory services
9. Mental health services
10. Pediatric services

If you voted for Obama, you got what you voted for. Always remember, elections have consequences. Another election is coming up in November 2016. Research the candidate’s position on the issues that matters to you. Keep in mind that a vote for Hillary Clinton is a vote for a 4 year extension of Obama's policies, including Obamacare.

Consider if the candidates positions become law, how would it impact you, your, family and your bank account.  Know their past voting records, and then decide who would be the best candidate for your vote. Don’t vote on superficial qualities and then have buyer’s remorse.


What are your thoughts? Leave your comments below.