Cigna Medicare Surround Plan

When it comes to picking the right Medicare plan it can feel like you’re trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube in the dark with one hand tied behind your back. But don’t worry! We’re here to shine a light on the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan. This is one of those options that might just be the key to getting your healthcare needs squared away – as long as you don’t mind a few quirks along the way. Let’s dive in!

What is the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan?

The Cigna Medicare Surround Plan is a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy. It’s designed to “surround” your Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) coverage. What does that mean in plain English? Well it’s like the insurance version of a warm blanket on a cold night – it wraps around your Medicare and fills in the gaps that Original Medicare doesn’t cover.

How Does It Work?

The Cigna Medicare Surround Plan covers out-of-pocket costs like deductibles coinsurance and copayments. So when Medicare leaves you with a bill Cigna steps in to foot the rest or at least a good chunk of it. Think of it as your Medicare sidekick – like Batman and Robin but with fewer gadgets and more paperwork.

What’s Covered?

• Hospital Coinsurance: When you’re admitted to the hospital, Cigna picks up the tab after Medicare pays its share. No need to raid your piggy bank!
• Part B Coinsurance: This covers the 20% of Medicare-approved services that Medicare doesn’t pay. Yes 20% might not sound like a lot but trust me it adds up faster than a squirrel hoarding nuts for winter.
• First Three Pints of Blood: This one’s a bit weird but Medicare only covers blood after the first three pints. Cigna will pay for that initial “starter pack” if you will. So go ahead and rest easy – Cigna’s got you covered even in the event of a vampire apocalypse.

What’s NOT Covered?

Before you get too comfy under your insurance blanket let’s talk about what the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan doesn’t cover:

• Prescription Drugs: If you’re expecting Cigna to cover your meds you’ll be disappointed. This plan won’t touch your prescription costs with a ten-foot pole. You’ll need a separate Part D plan for that.
• Long-Term Care: If you think this plan will cover your stay in a nursing home think again. You’re on your own here – better start buttering up those relatives!
• Vision and Dental Care: The Cigna Medicare Surround Plan doesn’t do teeth or eyes. Sorry folks if you need glasses or a crown you’ll need another plan (or a really good dentist who accepts barter).

The Quirks and Perks of the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan

Quirk #1: The Monthly Premium

Let’s get one thing straight – this plan ain’t free. You’ll be paying a monthly premium to keep that blanket wrapped around your Medicare. Premiums vary based on where you live and your age. It’s like paying rent for a nice cozy apartment. But instead of a roof over your head you get peace of mind knowing you won’t be hit with a surprise hospital bill.

“The premium is worth every penny if it means not getting a heart attack from unexpected medical costs” says Henry Beltran the owner of Medicare Advisors Insurance Group LLC. “But let’s be honest sometimes the premium itself can give you a mini heart attack.”

Perk #1: Predictable Costs

The beauty of the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan is that it makes your healthcare costs predictable. No more wondering if that doctor’s visit will cost you a fortune. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying upfront. It’s like having a crystal ball for your medical bills – minus the mystic mumbo jumbo.

Quirk #2: No Out-of-Pocket Limit

Here’s a fun fact (or not-so-fun depending on how you look at it) – the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan doesn’t have an out-of-pocket limit. That means if you end up needing a lot of medical care you could be on the hook for some serious dough. So if you’re planning on getting hit by a bus or taking up extreme sports you might want to think twice.

Perk #2: Nationwide Coverage

The Cigna Medicare Surround Plan travels with you! Whether you’re spending the winter in sunny Florida or visiting grandkids in Oregon this plan has your back. It’s like having a trusty travel buddy who won’t leave you hanging when you need them most.

Quirk #3: Medical Underwriting

Here’s where things get a bit tricky. If you don’t sign up for the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period you might have to go through medical underwriting. That means Cigna gets to snoop into your health history and decide if they want to cover you. If they think you’re too much of a risk they could deny you coverage or charge you more. It’s like auditioning for a reality TV show – except instead of fame and fortune you get health insurance.

Perk #3: Freedom to Choose Your Doctors

One of the best things about the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan is that you can go to any doctor who accepts Medicare. No networks no referrals just good old-fashioned freedom of choice. It’s like being handed the keys to the candy store except the candy is healthcare and you don’t have to worry about cavities.

Should You Choose the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan?

The Cigna Medicare Surround Plan is a solid choice if you want the security of knowing your healthcare costs won’t spiral out of control. It’s not perfect (what plan is?) but it offers comprehensive coverage where it counts. Just be sure to weigh the quirks against the perks before you decide to wrap yourself in this particular blanket.

“I always tell my clients that the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan is like a good pair of shoes” says Henry Beltran. “It’s comfortable reliable and gets the job done – just don’t expect it to walk on water.”

Final Thoughts

In the world of Medicare choosing the right plan can feel like navigating a maze but the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan is a solid guide through the twists and turns. Just remember – no plan is perfect. If you’re okay with a few quirks this might just be the plan for you. And if not well there’s always next year!

• Tip: Make sure to compare the Cigna Medicare Surround Plan with other Medigap options before making a final decision.
• Reminder: Sign up during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period to avoid medical underwriting headaches.
• Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check if your favorite doctors accept Medicare – because what’s the point of insurance if you can’t see the doc you trust?

And with that you’re ready to make an informed decision. May the insurance odds be ever in your favor!

References

1. Cigna Official Website: Cigna Medicare Surround Plan
2. Medicare.gov: Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)
3. Beltran H. (2024). Personal insights on Medicare. Medicare Advisors Insurance Group LLC.