Unlocking Medicare Benefits in Mexico: Your Ultimate Guide

[@margiecallahan3009]

This is the clearest explanation of Medicare, Supplemental, and advantage insurance I have ever heard. FYI I worked in medical billing for 13 years and lived in Mexico for two. Thank you for this!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Hah! Ron is wonderful. And if you're looking for more in depth, I'll have an interview coming out in January. We just recorded and he explains a lot more! Be sure to subscribe ;-)

[@gapwedge1742]

I don’t see Ron’s contact information. Please provide.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@gapwedge1742 ronelledge.com/askron

[@carolynmote5144]

Excellent! I am a Medicare broker and am sure that while Ron probably really appreciates his pay he is definitely thinking first and foremost of the Medicare expat members’ needs.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I agree - he feels like a very caring guy!

[@fayskelley]

Thank you

[@jessiejoseph1093]

How are you a Medicare broker? The US government offers Medicare, not brokers. If what you are selling are supplemental policies then call them what they are.

[@jessiejoseph1093]

How are you a Medicare broker? The US government offers Medicare, not brokers. If what you are selling are supplemental policies then call them what they are.

[@apriljem]

As one who has been so confused the last few years, thank you Ron for your excellent information!

[@romaf9714]

Best video from all other podcasts in Mexico. Superb! Thanks!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Wow, thanks!

[@jvahl8747]

Amazing video! This is the first time I have heard anyone offering medicare information for travelers or living abroad! Truly grateful!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lorrielewis4419]

My dad had a brain aneurysm in Mexico on vacation. Brain surgery and 3 wks in ICU. Well over $200,000 on bills. They only travel with trip insurance now

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Wow - thanks for sharing. Trip insurance is a great idea. $200,000 seems like a lot for Mexico. I've heard there are predatory hospitals in tourist towns like Cabo San Lucas. Where was he?

[@maryrenaud6732]

I never heard of an Advantage Plan with overseas coverage, most such plans barely cover anything out of state…so it is surprising. I will look into this…thanks Ron!!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

They may have better overseas coverage than coverage in other states because it’s so much cheaper for them to pay for care outside the US!

[@kellyname5733]

Yes please look into this because it is a pack of lies. This guy and all the 'Brokers' want to sell you Medicare Advantage plans which is 'private insurance. These brokers receive high 'brokers fees' for selling you Medicare Advantage. Christopher Westfall explains all of this on his channel. Dont be fooled.

[@yanassi]

I wish i had known this before. I just retired, just got medicare part b, there was no advice from the ssa office. Just submit and go, no advice, no scenarios, a total lack of knowledgeable personnel. Luckily, my union offered the retiree plan option that covers the 20% balance due, i took it for $5 a month.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Medicare is very confusing. But having the 20% covered for $5 a month is a nice benefit. I know that open enrollment starts later this month, so maybe you'll get a chance to change?

[@davidpatton7298]

One of the best vids on important info ever. Much gratitude, amigo.

[@Rennygade1]

I love all the information packed videos you’ve been doing, Brighton! Especially happy you’ve been doing some great ones about Lake Chapala, where I’m hoping to live someday. Keep up the great work!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you! I had a great time capturing videos in Lake Chapala. I still have more to come. But I haven't finished videos I started last spring in La Paz! Too much content, too little editing time.

[@EnoughTimeTravel]

Thank you for once again bringing the good info! When it’s time to put this in place, I’ll likely need a broker licensed in TX. And I’ll be contacting Ron for the hook up! Especially since you are not Medicare age yourself, Brighton, I so appreciate you taking on this tedious/dry/confusing topic for the benefit of your viewers. You are so awesome! 🎉

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks! Although I'm not Medicare age yet, it fascinates me for some reason. Happy to cover this topic!

[@kellyname5733]

Medicare Advantage is fraud. Being sued currently 11/23. Watch Christopher Westfall for the truth about Medicare Advantage.

[@Tycobb10]

I have a high deductible F supplement plan for less $60 a month. I would have to get out of my supplement plan to go to an advantage plan and was told I would be underwritten for health issues to get back into a supplement plan. Plus I have heard horrendous stories about advantage plans and preapprovals and refusals to pay etc.

[@dianadery5037]

You are correct about medically qualifying to get your Med Supp back. You have the Cadillac of all plans. If I was born 1955 or earlier, I’d be all over it. Anyone born after 1955 can only get Plan G, high deductible G & Plan N. Those are the popular ones. Advantage you’re at the mercy of an insurance company approving your treatment.

[@denali9449]

We are on the original F Plan and just trying to move from one state to another was a pain in the butt. We had to go through the full underwriting process. I knew that with my health issues they would never accept me but my wife who is in extremely good health was denied coverage. Fortunately once you are 'in the door' with a supplement they cannot drop you for medical reasons and they must continue your coverage wherever you live. Of course they may raise your premiums. Ours went up about $20 each per month and we kept our original carrier.

[@Tycobb10]

@@dianadery5037 Advantage plans are not Medicare. It is private insurance driven by the profit motive. They make more money when they say no to your health needs or claims. Makes no sense!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@tylerwebb835 I wish Ron and I had talked about returning to Original Medicare from Advantage. But I didn't know to ask about that at the time of the interview. This is complicated stuff!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@denali9449 I didn't know about the moving inside the US limits. Thanks for sharing.

[@BuceriasRodHardy]

Yes I use my Medicare Advantage Plan through Lakeside Medical Group here in Mexico at no cost to me. So, Yes you can use your Medicare Advantage Plan, VA Care 2:36 , Tri Care, and other insurance plans through Lakeside Medical for Free. I ended up in the hospital in Bucerias for several days and Lakeside Medical took care of All the paperwork with my United Healthcare and I didn't even pay a peso out of pocket. I didn't have to give the Hospital a credit card or cash to be admitted, Lakeside Medical Group took care of it.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for sharing! I have a video about Lakeside coming soon. Good to hear it worked so well for you!

[@eugeniebreida]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexicoWow, you Are! thorough! And just terrific… this is the most upbeat/laid back way for us worn USers to learn about our complex med/insurance options post-65yrs. Hats off ! 🎉

[@Harleyquin62]

I'm in California. Can you share the information on your Advantage plan name of company. Thank you.

[@yigalgidasi5617]

I love all your informative videos but most of all I loved the one with Ron the Medicare broker which finally I understand how Advantage and Supplement plans work. He made so easy to understand. I never knew you can be reimbursed by certen Advantage plans for treatment overseas. Thank you for the intrview with Ron.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for watching. Ron is super easy to understand. Great guy!

[@cindyk3076]

Wow, this video was packed with great information and Ron explained everything very well. Thank you so much for this!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Ron was an amazing guest. So glad I found him!

[@kellyname5733]

Medicare Advantage is being sued currently 11/23.

[@longfence9831]

Corrrect Kelly. And may be erased out of the medical system.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@longfence9831 @kellyname5733 I'm wondering what you're talking about. Medicare Advantage is like Obamacare. It's huge with hundreds of companies taking part in providing plans. It doesn't provide insurance itself - it pays private companies to do so. It looks like United Health is being sued right now for how they made decisions for their Medicare Advantage Long Term Care patients. Maybe that's what you are talking about?

[@ffcolon2738]

Thank you, this video has been the best Medicare Benefit in Mexico and out of the country coverage explanation, thanks

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Hey, thanks for the shoutout! I'm really happy that the video helped you understand the Medicare benefits in Mexico. Let me know if there's anything else you want to know!

[@prayersandmotivation]

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! This was SO helpful! I am in Mexico now for three months, and need to sign up for Medicare right now. I already put in a message for Ron. What a great service you gave to us with this show. I am a new subscriber now!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks! I hope Ron can help you get set up with a good plan!

[@jahnacarlson3528]

Excellent information on the nuances involved in the different insurances. Thank you.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Glad it was helpful!

[@enough1494]

Great video! Thank You. I meet with my agent October 18, and tossing between Mexico and DR to retire!

[@IngridMClark]

What immensly important interview and information you guys contributed to humanity's wellbeing. Thank you both. Ron's info is bookmarked in my Chromebook. Be blessed.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Wow, thank you!

[@sooner_born2256]

It would be nice if there was a plan for x-pats on Medicare that paid for foreign healthcare but gave you the option to fly you back to the US for anything major.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

That would be nice. But it looks like you'd need to buy a separate evacuation plan as Ron mentioned.

[@retrodesignworkshop9429]

In the United States, medical services are very expensive. When you talk about medical service in the United States you end up talking about money. I just came out of surgery more than 30 days ago. I had surgery at the IMSS, the state medical service. Mexican workers are covered by this insurance, or you can even sign up voluntarily for around $700 dollars a year. The medical service itself is fantastic. Although I must admit that the equipment is somewhat old. The beds show signs of rust and the serum support was moderately repaired. Although there was also new equipment in places where it was required. Above all, the doctors work with great passion. My doctor performs more than 30 surgeries a week and despite being very young, he had a lot of professional practice. 35 days after my surgery and after five screws in my radius, I am very close to having a full recovery. On the other hand, there are many grandmothers who know remedies that work wonders, herbs, ointments and other tea infusions. In every popular market there is a stall with these remedies. The best thing to stay healthy is to be happy, laugh, enjoy life. "Para todo mal mezcal para todo bien tambien." For any bad mezcal, for any good too.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you for sharing! I should do a video about IMSS - it's a great option for some people. And the same doctors who work for IMSS work in the private hospitals!

[@retrodesignworkshop9429]

The same doctors work for IMSS, private hospitals in Mexico and the US.@@AlmostRetiredinMexico

[@monroy400]

I'm mexican and have private health insurance (GNP health insurance company). But for the day to day, if I get sick (covid, flu, some type of infection, muscular aches fever etc). I go to the pharmacy which they have a doctor (farmacia del ahorro). They don't charge you you tip them (5-6 dollars). My health insurance is for an emergency, cronic illness something like that. Everything in between is visiting the pharmacy doctor. The doctor near my nearest pharmacy is retired from IMSS so he has like 35 yrs experience. I'm in my 50's.. thats how we mexicans handle our health services. My friends do the same. Except when I go the ginecologist but health insurance doesn't cover anual check ups. I just had a root canal with a very good dentist and it was $8,000.

[@dennishassler605]

Yes, good points! I have a Cigna Advantage Plan and it was difficult getting in to see a Specialist (Pinal-Maricopa) so my primary told me to check in to emergency given I cannot wait any longer. I have to be in Arizona for my plan. Not sure what it will be like when I'm in Mexico, but I had bladder cancer and now it's all cleared up.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Congrats on clearing the cancer! And best of luck with the coverage. It seems Medicare Advantage is growing, but maybe not the hospitals and doctors that are supposed to do the work…

[@dennishassler605]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico It seems obvious that the doctors sign up for being "in network", but they get other patients, too, and, then, they prioritize by how much they get paid by the patients, so if you are Medicare they'll cancel your appointment for those with plans that pay them more. The American medical sector is consumed by GREED!!!

[@hangsolow216]

This is possibly one of the best videos I have ever watched on KZbin thanks so much 😎

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Wow, thanks!

[@edv1261]

Wow. This is good information as I’m already retired but not on Medicare yet. I will be enrolled in part A when I turn 62 and start collecting social security. Not sure if I will be able to Enroll on the advance then. My guess is that I have to wait until I’m 65. I’m also overseas for half of the year-not in Mexico. Thanks for the information and great video. Take care.

[@Mexicobeanpole]

You can’t get Medicare part A until you’re 65, unless you have a disability, then it’s possible but not easy before.

[@lynnrussell1641]

You get MediCare at 65,unless Disabled and assigned to it prior.You have to sign up for A,B,and D at sign up,otherwise you get a penalty for not signing up for D,that follows you forever.All Advantage Plans cover your Part D.

[@ellenanneshapiro3939]

Super super helpful and great job on clarifying so much confusing information. Thank you for providing this info, great interview and thank you Ron!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for watching!

[@mariagkok4me]

This should have been added: In contrast, traditional Medicare does not have an out-of-pocket limit for covered services. In 2023, the out-of-pocket limit for Medicare Advantage plans may not exceed $8,300 for in-network services and $12,450 for in-network and out-of-network services combined. So this persons information was not complete The out of pocket is VERY high for the Advantage plans if you get a really serious medical condition.

[@eugeniebreida]

But you are saying normal Medicare has NO out of pocket limit, thus could go Much Higher than Advantage max’s? (thanks in advance…)

[@mariagkok4me]

@@eugeniebreida This information is taken from the Medicare site. Medicare Part B - which covers physician services, outpatient care and durable medical equipment - also has out-of-pocket expenses. In 2023, you can expect to pay: A $226 deductible. A 20 percent coinsurance to cover most Part B services. You would purchase a supplement plan, and depending on which state you are in that will cost anywhere from $120 to $220 a month. That supplement plan will pay the Part B deductible and the 20% of charges that are not covered by Medicare Part B. So if you have any serious illness or whatever, to use regular medicare with a supplement plan would be more cost effective.

[@kateb7155]

​@@eugeniebreidaNo, they said "traditional Medicare" (which is parts A and B only and those are what everyone has when they are fully retired; Part B costs about $164/month for most people - more for higher retirement income earners) and there is no out-of-pocket limit with just Parts A and B. You pay 20% of ALL costs. An Advantage Plan is considered "Part C," and they can have low or no copays and very expensive out of pocket costs up to $12,450 (per year) for medical services so they can be very expensive, even though they also have a very low or no monthly premium cost. The disadvantage of the Advantage Plans are their fraudulent practices of denying coverage and an appeal process that is daunting and lengthy and will not lead to receiving the medical care you need when you need it. The U.S. Senate is currently investigating their very illegal tactics. People are better off purchasing a "Medigap" Plan (G or N) for a monthly premium cost that has a maximum out-of-pocket of $226 per year. (With that same $226/year out of pocket cost, a higher deductible version of G or N can save on the monthly premium cost.) There are no doctor networks with "traditional Medicare" wirh Medigap coverage, no pre-authorization requirements, and 98% of U.S. doctors take Medicare. And another important Medigap plan is Part D, which is for prescription medicine coverage, and costs about $20/month. Finally, a big problem that is developing now is major hospital systems across the U.S. are starting to deny care to Advantage Plan policyholders. They are fed up with the fraudulent practices of Advantage Plans not paying the medical bills.

[@joannewittenbrook8051]

It depends on the advantage plan. My advantage plan has a 4 thousand out of pocket maximum.

[@pan-amfencing2024]

I like to get your partner Jim's info and if I can be covered in Costa Rica?

[@jandavidmorales1784]

My husband wanted to go back to Mexico as he loved over there but after an accident at work in 2016 hurting his back he suffered with terrible back and neck pain plus other medical conditions that he started to have after the accident. His medical condition started to deteriorate rapidly 😢, I was worried of taking him back to Mexico to live over there as we live in England, he was having all treatment here and ambulance service very often, I was just worried of how we could cope over there with his medical conditions and medical care. Sadly he passed away last month and he didn't got the chance to go back to the country that he loved so much 😢

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I'm so sorry for your loss - and for him not getting back to Mexico. Hopefully he's up in the "Mexico in the sky" sipping a bottomless margarita and eating endless tacos.

[@ricardo_cn]

Sorry to hear the passing of your husband. Sad to hear my compatriot couldn't make it to return to México. As a mexican myself I want to do the same... retire and back to México as I live in England too. Bless you! 🙏

[@lisadawley]

I'm so sorry for your loss :( I hope you can still feel him with you and I'm sure he will be joining your future travels in spirit.

[@MsChicoro]

Great starter information upon which one can start to investigate for one's specific situation. Thank you! Looking forward to that second video with Ron.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Here's the second one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIPXc2Nrn8iKg7M

[@MsChicoro]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thank you so much!

[@isamartinez8830]

Omg…. Thank you very much… i am new on Medicare ( 2nd year) and the additional advantage plan… it make realice that I need to call my agent and clear some information and points about my plan… I am in California…. Thinking of moving to retire in Mexico… Thank you very much!!!❤

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Glad you found this helpful! Now's the time to call your agent and explore options! I hope to see you in Mexico soon.

[@msmargiek48]

This was such a great video. I have contacted Ron and hope to get something worked out with his partner Tim before the Medicare window closes because we definitely need to switch.

[@elaineocasio763]

I choose regular Medicare with a Supplement plan because I’ve had bad experiences with “managed” plans. The insurance company gets to decide what you need. It’s worth it to me to pay extra if I don’t have to deal with the insurance company as a middleman.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

That's a great point. With Advantage, you're taking pubic healthcare and privatizing it. Then someone wants to cut services to make a profit...

[@leebenedict6077]

Thank you for this! I recently moved to Ajijic and will be contacting Lakeside Medical Group.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Great! I have a video coming up about them soon. Congrats on your move to Ajijic!

[@virginia2139]

Wow this ins. guy is so sweet and smart.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I totally agree Virginia!

[@LindaBonham]

Thanks!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you (again) for the tip! Let me know if you have any suggestions for future videos.

[@MaryPalen-o6s]

I am set.,got my supplement plan, and the Advantage Plan jus this week.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Congratulations!

[@jenniferressmannwriter]

Always great info. Thank you! I know someone with the advantage plan... lots of complaints but I don't know the details. It's all so disappointingly complicated. 🙄

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yeah - Advantage plans are really just government paying for your private insurance. There are probably over 1000 different varieties. It's a bit like school vouchers...

[@jenniferressmannwriter]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Crazy how many options. We always thought it was Medicare. That's it. (when my husband was a lot younger he also thought it was free - aww... how nice. 🙂)

[@lylerobinson3515]

I'll be contacting Ron. Thanks for the enlightenment.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for watching. I’m glad I could connect you with Ron!

[@jessiejoseph1093]

It is all a racket. Health Insurance in America is joke.

[@richardbudzic6289]

Their job priorities are first to take the money. Second, to pay for their expenses, insurance agents salaries and office related expenses such as rental. Third priority is to decide if they should pay for some medical bills of the customers. In case they run out of money to pay for the bills, they just declare bankruptcy and get legal protection from law suits. Without insurance agencies there would be a lot more money available for medical care.

[@jessiejoseph1093]

@@richardbudzic6289 I was working and fully insured through United Heathare Partners. They sent me a bill for $925 for a mammogram. UHP notoriously does not pay on Medicare Advantage Plans. They have bankrupted many small hospitals.

[@justmyownpersonalopinion]

Banks control everything is all a monopoly

[@billiecallahan1246]

Except it’s not funny.

[@jessiejoseph1093]

@@billiecallahan1246 agreed.

[@henryw5762]

This insurance guy knows his stuff 100%!

[@marybethmcclure5929]

thank you for such an informative video. I learned a lot!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

You are so welcome, Mary Beth!

[@gilbertedgett194]

Thank you! Excellent Medicare info. Ron was so clear & just a great resource. You are just knocking these interviews out of the park!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Wow, thank you!

[@maggiesmith979]

International Insurance is inexpensive for travelers as long as you are not expected to be covered in the US. I don't have my medicare assigned. As a retired nurse I prefer to make my own healthcare decisions.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

That’s a great point I hadn’t thought of. Use Medicare in the US and non-US insurance for care overseas.

[@ronelledge8295]

Just remember that Medicare A and B are an 80/20% plan and yur 20% has no limit on your exposure.

[@brendataylor8388]

Very helpful! Thank you!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Glad it was helpful, Brenda!

[@laurelzaremba3730]

I wish you'd cover the applicable benefits with TriCare for Life when out of country; this information was very helpful. Thank you.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for the suggestion. I’m going to do a live video with Ron on Oct 2. I’ll be sure to ask about this (or you can if you are there live.)

[@xrayeyes2023]

Have to get Medical Travel Insurance every time one goes overseas. Not just depend on Medicare or any US medical insurance coverage. American Express credit card holders ( especially Platinum cards holders ) can have medical coverage provided by American Express ( need to investigate this).

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I don't think the Amex card holder benefits include any medical coverage. I think that is extra - even at the Platinum level. Definitely look into that.

[@xrayeyes2023]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico , Platinum holders have evacuation coverage.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@xrayeyes2023 Correct. But not necessarily back to the US.

[@roundpaws]

Best source of info on this I have seen. When you say “resident” address and not a PO Box, does that mean no virtual mailboxes with PMBs?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I believe that is true. But you'd need to reach out to Ron for a definitive answer. His contact info is in the description.

[@DavidLuers]

Thanks Brighton, lots of good info. I think it would be hard to give up the flexibility of a supplement plan if you live in different locations. Choose your health care professional without pre approvals. But the evacuation policy that was mentioned makes a lot of sense to me. I am not able to find the contact info for the man in the video. I would like to talk to him for my own education.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

You can contact Ron thru his website: ronelledge.com/askron/

[@DavidLuers]

Thanks Brighton.

[@dowwjones4876]

This is valuable information. Thank you very much.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Happy to share!

[@tracymartin-wray2491]

Some folks only have Medicare A & B because they have other coverage. My husband did not get the additional Medicare because he has VA. But now, on the eve of moving to Mexico, we find that neither his Medicare NOR his VA will work in MX. So we will have to use IMSS until we find an affordable private plan.

[@PP-uv1kw]

1...pay cash 2...send paid bill to medicare 3... they will reject payment 4... submit paid bill and medicare rejection to tricare... i assume you are retired military.... 5... tricare. your part B provider. will pay. 6. final option.... as retired mil. go to any U.S.MIL base or U.S.NAVY ship in ANY country...

[@tracymartin-wray2491]

​@@PP-uv1kwNope. Not retired military. Thank you for your answer, though! 😊

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Another commenter had a great idea: get an inexpensive non-US medical insurance plan for when you are outside the US and use Original Medicare (or Advantage) inside the US. International medical plans are inexpensive - EXCEPT when they include the US. I have a video about private insurance here: kzbin.info1MY_6-RaTao But I think IMSS is a great option for catastrophic care in Mexico. You can self-pay for most services with private docs, but IMSS will be there if something really bad happens.

[@althomas887]

Don't forget to mention, on advantage plan the doctor's treatment recomendation is subject to underwriters approval, and the underwriters exist to save the health insurance company money, some people might call that a conflict of interest. So a timely treatment may be delayed and you are sent home with an aspirin an told to wait. Just hope time is not of the essence.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yes - advantage plans are private insurance, just like how insurance works for most employed people in the US.

[@elgringoec]

Excellent conversation! 👌🙏✌️

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Much appreciated

[@elgringoec]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Your guest is very knowledgeable and good with sharing information; you're a thoughtful and organized host. Every time I expose myself to topics of this nature it reinforces my observation of what an intricate racket the healthcare industrial complex has built along with cronies in govt. It's surreal how, in what's presumed to be the best country in the world, we have to jump through so many hoops to navigate any system, especially this one, while quite literally risking life and limb to hopefully avoid all the pitfalls. Which essentially turns into a roll of the dice, just hoping we didn't miss dotting an i or crossing a T or overlooking some caveat, condition, exception, exclusion, etc etc - all designed for profitability of providers at the expense of individuals seeking service. Best not to think about it while they get rich off our backs and just hope and pray to minimize our need for their increasingly subpar convoluted services.

[@pruenster]

Mexico has IMSS, which we have. You have to be a Mexican resident to apply. We have had IMSS for 15 years already and love it!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I think IMSS is a great idea. Do you use it often, or is it just for true emergencies. Most private healthcare is affordable - but IMSS would be great if you had a catastrophic emergency.

[@bernadettesandoval3990]

Excellent content

[@bnnusa58]

I have Medicare part A and B with Tricare as my secondary coverage. How does Tricare work out of country?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

You'd need to reach out to Ron directly at [e-mail]. He doesn't read the comments here.

[@joanl1404]

Excellent video, thanks!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Glad you liked it Joan!

[@DurangoC]

Amazing content.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you!

[@edwardmoran1739]

Great great video thanks!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

My pleasure!

[@lynnbb]

Big Thank YOU Sir💐

[@ceceliahopemanleylpc7462]

Super. Thank you

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

You're welcome. I have another video with Ron coming soon - going deeper and aswering questions that came up after this video.

[@ilovemelodyjane]

What about for veterans? Does the VA cover A & B if I use only their facilities, or do I need the additional A & B? Thank you. We have a high income. 👀 I think.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Sorry - that's too specific for me. You'd need to contact Ron.

[@mothertheresa2424]

Awesome info thank you

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Harleyquin62]

I only have a and b what advantage plan is the cheapest and what works better in Mexico ???

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

There are over 1000 Advantage plans. You'll need to reach out to someone who can determine which you are eligible for based on you US address.

[@Harleyquin62]

​@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thank you , I contacted Ron. He is a blessing. Thanks Ron.

[@SophiaZanzotWhitted]

I love this guy!!!

[@mikemedvedec3456]

Advantage plan can deny coverage of A and B and if so, why would they approve foreign bills. ??? It does not make sense.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I've heard that private insurance in the US doesn't question overseas bills because they are so much cheaper than bills from the US. So one reason that's approve foreign bills is because of the amount of money they save each time someone gets care outside the US.

[@judyalexander7244]

My supplemental to original Medicare is Champva. Would that pay the same as it does in the state s?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

You'd need to reach out to Ron

[@nurseadrianern]

Great info and although I’m not an Advantage Plan fan in the situation for expats who can travel back to USA 🇺🇸annually it could have benefit

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks!

[@younglee9411]

If I retire after 65, before enrolling in Medicare, move to a country that has a national health insurance coverage for a couple of years, and then come back to the US, can or can't I get Medicare without any penalty as a new enrollee at that age (basically delay it until my return without any penalty)? If I can, what is the process to do it?

[@DianePacini]

In NE WY Advantage plans won't work. Very few docs are in network. Most docs that are in network are in bigger cities maybe 300 + miles away. A supplemental plan is about the only way to go. One we found is reasonably priced at $90 for each of us a month. We tested it out a while back with about a $5k cataract surgery bill, it ended up costing us a total of $20 bucks out of pocket total. This plan went up $3 from $87 to $90 from 2023 to 2024, we can live with that, hopefully it remains intact and affordable as there aren't many options in our neck of the woods.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Great point! Advantage plans can be better options for urban areas with lots of doctors and health systems. Glad you found something that works for you!

[@lindahanson7020]

You can submit receipts that are probably in Spanish to your Medicare ins company? I would think they would reject that right out…IDK…

[@mysticthreed2957]

Hello everyone! Thx so much for this video. I was reimbursed for Spanish hospitalization ( details below). You do have to pay it yourself and then submit to your insurance company. I fell in Spain a year ago and fractured my leg (upper femur/hip area). Had ambulance hospitalization surgery in a Spanish hospital. I didn't receive the invoice from the hosp for nearly 6 mos. Then I scrambled to get it paid in euros. And then submitted everything to ins. I have a medicare advantage plan. It took about 2 months and then it was paid in full. PS: My plan didn't cover Rx drugs. Luckily those costs were minimal in Spain. My 2 ¢'s

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@mysticthreed2957 do you remember if you had to have documents translated before sendiing them to your insurance in the US? Thanks for sharing your story!

[@Mtnsandoceans]

If you are retired in Mexico and a resident permeant or temporary why not get private insurance there it is available ?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@Mtnsandoceans That is an option. I have a video here: kzbin.info1MY_6-RaTao

[@danielsshepherd228]

⁠@@Mtnsandoceans It can be really expensive. Especially if you have any pre existing conditions. And more often than not, you won’t be covered at all, especially after age 70. Emergencies, where you might have extended time in a hospital can cost thousands of dollars.

[@willeasy4667]

is there Plan to cover Insulins in Mexico?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I'm sorry, you'd need to connect with Ron on that.

[@monroy400]

In México 100 ul/ml of insulin is $102 pesos

[@willeasy4667]

@@monroy400Is this price for insulin with health insurance? Thanks

[@suzannec228]

I went to Urgent Care in Tallahassee and ended up having to pay. for my two visits as Brand New Day did not cover me outside of California

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Interesting. They should cover emergencies or urgent issues. I’m not sure how they define those…

[@richardnowacki2869]

The maximum is less then you will pay for a supplement ,in fact most of the advantage care the deductible is around $4000 to $7000.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Where are you getting those numbers? I can find zero deductible Advantage plans.

[@mia7356]

Such important information and Ron is so good at explaining it. Thanks so much!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Our pleasure!

[@shirleylavernerosej.120]

What about veterans? Will government cover veterans abroad the oceans? Do disable veterans get any coverage overseas?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I don't know for sure.

[@susanamould2934]

Can I have the information about the brooker on this video please

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

ronelledge.com/askron/

[@physina]

My supplement covers me worldwide - any provider, any facility without a copay, no limit- Given high medical costs, I will never change.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I’m assuming you don’t travel overseas for more than 60 days at a time, right?

[@phishtacosfishingandstuff2677]

I wish this was more mexico specific. I'm still not certain if Medicare and our supplemental covers us in Mexico.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

You'd need to look into your Supplement plan. I think Ron said the max coverage was $50,000 and you can only be out of the country for 60 days at a time. I'm going to bring Ron back for another video in the new year.

[@peterpiper487]

I live in the United States and have never had health insurance of any kind. I found that it's cheaper to pay my own medical bills in cash. I have not had so much as a cold or a headache for about 40 years (since I started a ketogenic diet) so all I do is go in for yearly check-ups, which always turn out great. It's cheaper for me to pay for yearly check-ups than to pay Medicare payments so I'll continue without health insurance... free as a bird.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

That's great. But what's your plan if you get cancer or into a serious accident? I know a guy in Mexico who racked up $130,000 US in medical bills after he was hit by a car while riding his bike. It would have easily cost in the millions in the US for similar care.

[@tjamieson7238]

Medicare is not covered in Mexico. If you go to Private insurance you get Medicare Advantage. Your heading is INCORRECT AND MISLEADING. Medicare is through the US Government Medicare Advantage is PRIVATE INSURANCE!!! Every Insurance Broker who you go through to get Medicare Advantage, gets $1000 commission just for signing someone up. With Government Medicare you have all preexisting conditions waived. However if you leave and decide to go back say due to poor coverage or denied claims or no doctor in area etc, if within return time frame allowed there will be a penalty and possible denial due to preexisting conditions. Currently MEDICARE ADVANTAGE HAS A 70% CLAIM DENYING RATE!!! MEDICARE ADVANTAGE was created due to Political Strategy to Privatize Government Medicare. Each year Medicare Advantage can change your plan but still charge you. Medicare Advantage is a Corporation. Corporate Greed is rampant and once your locked in your bound to them. Please check your sources!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

OK, you have some good points, but Medicare Advantage has a 70% denial rate? I gotta ask you to provide a source for that one. MA is part of Medicare. "Original Medicare" is the other option. MA is funded by the Medicare program but is private insurance. It has more strings, but also some key benefits. IMO, all Americans should have Medicare, not just older Americans. But even now, when older Americans are eligible for Medicare, more than half choose Medicare Advantage.

[@001singularity]

I would never ever ever be on a supplement plan. Great if you are healthy, horrific if you get sick. Fact. Personal experience. My bad, I misspoke supplemental pland are ok if you can afford it and live in the US. The bad experience I witnessed first hand was with the advantage plans. But they are good for some but not great if you are unfortunate enough to get cancer like my mom. Then the only prudent avenue is standard Medicare. Do t let the 20% copay scare you. Many cancer hospitals work with you to reduce that significantly or eliminate it altogether if you no longer are able to pay.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Supplement plans may be good for some folks, but not great if you are living in Mexico for longer than 60 days (and even then, Advantage plans are a better bet.)

[@PP-uv1kw]

SO.... WHAT ABOUT TRICARE-FOR-LIFE AS AN ADDITIONAL COVERAGE FOR MEDICARE A+B

[@jtns2845]

if overseas medicare a&b covers nothing, so tfl becomes primary and sole coverage. overseas you pay for tfl care upfront and file claims with receipts to tricare for reimbursement, which takes time. you eat deductibles and copays.

[@KrisWiltseArt]

I went with a high deductible G plan for $49 mo. $2800 deductible in 2024. I wouldn't touch a (take) advantage plan!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

If that's what works for you, that's great. For me, I'm not keen on high deductible plans. Everyone has their tolerance for risk.

[@lauracde4414]

If you have very complex or rare conditions, it’s not just fear that guides people to supplemental plans because they may need specialists not in network. There is also the issue of needing pre authorization for some services and the issue of transitioning from hospital to skilled nursing etc. It’s not as simple as presented st least in the beginning of this video. He also didn’t mention the issue of A and B not covering meds and needing Part D or otherwise a plan that includes Part D if don’t buy one separately

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I think all Advantage plans cover prescriptions, right?

[@patriciajump9511]

Across the US, sime hospitals are beginning to stop accepting Medicare Advantage, because of excess denials.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Medicare Advantage is a huge system with probably 100 providers with over a thousand plans. I don't think any hospital is going to stop taking all of them. There are many doctors who don't take Medicare that do take some Advantage plans.

[@BarbMurray]

Scripps Clinic and Scripps Coastal in San Diego, CA stopped accepting all Medicare Advantage plans for 2024. 32,000 patients lost their MA coverage with them. Patients’ options were: 1.) Keep their doctors at Scripps Clinic, go on Original Medicare, and pay the 20% not covered by O.Medicare. Or, try to pass medical underwriting and add a supplement plan. Plan G premium around $250/month for mid-70’s F, increasing every year. 2.) Get a Medicare Advantage plan at a different hospital, and get all new doctors. The public reason that Scripps Clinic and Coastal admin. gave was that Medicare Advantage was no longer profitable for them. I really enjoyed the video…Medicare is so confusing and you both really helped to cover a lot of information clearly!

[@MeeniWeeni]

This was super helpful. I was kinda proud of myself because I had sort of hit on that evacuation insurance work-around. When searching for a 'catastrophic' plan, because I knew I would not be able to self-insure for tens of thousands of dollars, I found out through AI that some evac insurances will give you upfront money to pay off your hospital bill so you can be flown back home. And just as stated in the video, the cost for an evac plan is not expensive. The real eye-opener for me was the fact that I didn't know my Advantage Plan would cover me out of country. I was thinking I would need travel insurance and evac courage. So this was very helpful and I really appreciate the info-sharing.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Congrats on having purchased the right Advantage Plan! The upfront cash to get out of the hospital is important. And Advantage Plans reimburse you, so you'll need to be able to pay or charge it before you leave.

[@Uncommon-pixels]

What this man conveniently forgets to say is that Medicare advantage requires the subscriber to be a uS resident This means spending more than 6 months a year in the uS , maintaining a permanent residence there etc If you do not meet these conditions and keep your policy you are committing Medicare fraud which is a felony in most states Actually you are obligated to tell them if you are not a resident anymore If you get audited they will look at your credit card statements and phone bills to see where you were each day- Don’t believe unscrupulous brokers who will tell you that you just need an address in the US to have the right to have Medicare advantage They know better and will never put it in writing.

[@stevestewart007]

He actually DID address that, but only briefly. Yes, something that needs to be explored more thoroughly.

[@bizzbuilder]

Hey smiley, you are really funny to watch you couldn’t squint your eyes or talk with a smile more than you do

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks. I am who I am…

[@MsChicoro]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Yep, who you are is a charming man with a gorgeous smile.

[@DeutschlandGuy]

Another thing to consider is that obtaining health care "overseas" for our own benefit and protection is only part of the equation. The other question that needs to be asked is "for the length of time I'm planning on staying in another country, will that host country accept supplemental and/or Medicare Advantage plans as being valid proof of health care coverage from the host country's standpoint? What makes a health care plan "valid" is entirely up to the host country. Any stay that will require a residency permit and/or a long-term visa is particularly susceptible to the whims of the host country. Don't ignore this. It will do you no good to think you have health care all taken care of, only to find out the host country won't accept the plan as being valid in their eyes. You are welcome. 😎

[@jahnacarlson3528]

Not so much the government involvement driving lack of service, spiraling cost, etc, as it is the entrenched interests that are benefiting from the status quo.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I'm thinking it's the private involvement driving lack of services, spiraling costs, etc. If we just had government provided healthcare and not this push towards private insurance, things would have to be cheaper. The US has the most expensive healthcare in the world - and it's mostly private.

[@DeliaB_19-44.]

Health Net tells me that I can pay for some emergency ho if im sick and the reumburs me the money and some times if you really sick they fly you to the USA 🇺🇸

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Great to hear Health Net includes overseas coverage!

[@sharonbice4119]

He did not cover which supplement plan is best for travelers. I know there is a difference. Not really clear info on this unfortunately.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Sorry. Medigap Plans C, D, F, G, M and N cover emergency health care while you travel outside of the United States. But the maximum coverage is only $50,000 and there are limits to how long you can be out of the country. I hope that helps.

[@benqurayza7872]

There are other options. You can buy traveler's health insurance. Some countries require it for entry. If you plan to reside in a foreign country, you may be able to buy into the national health plan or subscribe to a local clinic.

[@romaf9714]

This has nothing to do with the subject of this video. You suggestion won't work for long stay in one country. Especially on Medicare.

[@benqurayza7872]

@romaf9714 The video discussed the limitations of Medicare abroad. Medicare Advantage, overall, despite insurance company promises, is not reliable for older and sicker persons, even in the United States. That could be more harrowing abroad. That is why I recommend that persons consider a wider spectrum of insurance options. Some countries have excellent insurance and care, better than your Medicare umbilical cord.

[@lauracde4414]

It’s also dangerous with Advantage plan to count on paying out of pocket for catastrophic medical care and waiting to be reimbursed. How many people who move to Mexico for low cost of living can afford to do that? I work as a medical case manager and see tragic financial situations frequently because people assume tragedies like cancer and life threatening accidents etc will never happen to them

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

This is a good point. Most hospitals in Mexico will take a credit card, but you better have a high limit and the ability to carry a balance until you are reimbursed.

[@Mtnsandoceans]

Why not just get private insurance in Mexico ?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

That's an option too. But if you paid into a medical system for your entire adult life, then maybe you want to use it when you retire. Also, I believe you need to pay for Medicare even if you don't use it (to maintain your ability to get it if you move back to the USA when you get older.)

[@tcb1017]

It's not that easy to just apply for private healthcare in Mexico. Those days area gone 😅

[@tcb1017]

​@@AlmostRetiredinMexicoIF you plan to never go back to THE US after you retire, you can just cansel THE plan B and Then you don't pay anything. Since plan A is free. But, IF you ever would go back and sign Up again for THE plan B ok, 10% penalty for every year you stayed out 😅😢😂

[@Mtnsandoceans]

@@tcb1017 Absulity incorrect ! !

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@tcb1017 What makes it difficult?

[@Tycobb10]

Advantage plans are not Medicare ... they are private for profit companies that are more profitable if they deny your coverage for a specific medical need. Just know what you are getting into when you go with an Advantage plan.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

True. It's most like what most Americans are used to. Except it's not an employer paying most of your premium, it's the government.

[@Tycobb10]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico I paid into Medicare for some 40 years and there is an monthly premium for Part B.

[@Tycobb10]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico I paid into Medicare for some 40 years and there is an monthly premium for Part B.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@Tycobb10 Yes, but I'm guessing you were employed and had private healthcare provided by your employer for 40 years,. So Advantage is the same thing, only your employer is replaced by the government. Medicare is more like real socialized medicine, where profit is not part of the equation.

[@yankeecorrupto2202]

You have a good english

[@nala3038]

You have a good English? I’m thinking you failed English 1A.

[@dwightprice7399]

What is an expat?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Someone not currently living in the country they were born in.

[@DeutschlandGuy]

Someone needs to inform this Ron that Mexico isn't "overseas". What ocean(s) does one need to cross to get there? (Spoiler alert: "None".) The same goes for Canada. Since both countries are connected to the contiguous 48 states through a "land bridge", traveling there is not "overseas" but can be corrected referred to as "going abroad" instead. ("Traveling abroad" simply means "traveling to a different country".)

[@Mexicobeanpole]

He seems like a very nice guy that wants the best for people. But, I kept hearing “if you’re traveling” and about going back to the U.S. once a year. If you’re a temporary or permanent resident of Mexico, then your not a resident of your state in the US. How does that work without going outside the rules of Medicare? I certainly don’t want any problems with the US government.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I'm a permanent resident of Mexico, but live 6+ months per year in Oregon. The key is maintaining some connection to the US - which is also important for tax purposes.