(Sponsored by Veterans Healthcare)
Chief Warrant Officer 4 Keith R. Prather, MSW, USA (Ret) first ran into the Veterans Healthcare team during a MOAA chapter retreat at Arnold Air Force Base in Tullahoma, Tenn. Keith quickly hit it off with the two representatives — one a fellow Army veteran — and was intrigued by the wealth of benefits offered through the veteran-focused Medicare Advantage plans available across the state.
"You're telling me I can get all those benefits at no costs?" Keith laughed, remembering his initial surprise. “I said, 'sign me up!'”
After discussing his personal situation, learning about Medicare Advantage, and reviewing his options, Keith decided to enroll.
"I saw the savings right away," Keith said. "The discounted Medicare Part B premium was great, and I loved the free gym membership."
He was so impressed that he spent the next few days with the Veterans Healthcare team, helping connect them with other local retirees who were interested in learning more.
Since then, Keith has switched his Medicare Advantage plan a few times, each time choosing a new option with better benefits as they became available. Medicare plan benefits can vary from year to year based on changes in federal funding.
"I listen to my agent," Keith explained. "And when he says, 'Hey, Keith, this other plan is looking really good for next year,' I take his advice. I never have to change, of course, but it’s nice to stay updated on the options. They make it really easy."
For example, Keith first enrolled in a PPO Medicare plan, then switched to an HMO plan the following year to take advantage of a larger Medicare Part B giveback and an included Visa spending card. This year, he’s considering shifting to another approved Medicare plan that offers even greater dental and over-the-counter benefits, along with a substantial Medicare Part B giveback.
"I know that no matter what, I have my agent and the Veterans Healthcare team behind me. They understand Medicare and how it works with my benefits. I really believe in them and — after using it — in the plans," Keith said. "I have VA, TRICARE For Life, and I also have this Medicare Advantage plan that is built for me as a retiree. Over two years of civilian and VA doctor appointments and the whole deal — nothing has changed except me getting greater benefits."
"Every veteran and retiree should at least take a few minutes and look into this," Keith finished. "It might not be a good choice for you personally, and that’s okay, but it’s at least worth taking a look."
MOAA members can contact the Veterans Healthcare team by calling (385) 558-4129 (TTY: 711) from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern, Monday-Saturday. You'll be connected with a licensed insurance representative. You can also visit www.veteran.healthcare/MOAA.