Medicare Part D Explained

[Studlover (imported)]

MEDICARE PART D EXPLAINED

MEDICAL INSURANCE EXPLAINED (Research done by the AARP Legal

Department)

Q. What does HMO stand for?

A. This is actually a variation of the phrase, "HEY MOE." Its

roots go back to a concept pioneered by Moe of the Three Stooges,

who discovered that a patient could be made to forget the pain

in his foot if he was poked hard enough in the eye.

---------------------------------------------

Q. I just joined an HMO. How difficult will it be to choose

the doctor I want?

A. Just slightly more difficult than choosing your parents.

Your insurer will provide you with a book listing all the

doctors in the plan. The doctors basically fall into two

categories--those who are no longer accepting new patients,

and those who will see you but are no longer participating

in the plan. But don't worry, the remaining doctor who is

still in the plan and accepting new patients has an office

just a half-day's drive away and a diploma from a third world

country.

---------------------------------------------

Q. Do all diagnostic procedures require pre-certification?

A. No. Only those you need.

---------------------------------------------

Q. Can I get coverage for my preexisting conditions?

A. Certainly, as long as they don't require any treatment.

---------------------------------------------

Q What happens if I want to try alternative forms of medicine?

A. You'll need to find alternative forms of payment.

---------------------------------------------

Q. My pharmacy plan only covers generic drugs, but I need the

name brand. I tried the generic medication, but it gave me a

stomach ache. What should I do?

A. Poke yourself in the eye.

---------------------------------------------

Q. What if I'm away from home and I get sick?

A. You really shouldn't do that.

---------------------------------------------

Q. I think I need to see a specialist, but my doctor insists he

can handle my problem. Can a general practitioner really perform

a heart transplant right in his/her office?

A. Hard to say, but considering that all you're risking is the 20

co-payment, give it a shot.

---------------------------------------------

Q. Will health care be different in the next century?

A. No, but if you call right now, you might get an appointment

by then.