Pleasant surprise from my insurance company

[question everything]

Got the Annual Notice of Changes. Yes, premium is up by $2.00 but...it now covers hearing aid fittings and evaluation and for hearing aids, too.

I need to cancel my upcoming appointment for hearing aid fitting and to postpone for next year.

Also get allowance $150 per year for prescription eyeglasses.

[babylonsister]

1. Hearing aids!!

I got a pair a few months back. They're so expensive. You're very fortunate.

[Marie Marie]

2. Costco makes it well worth the membership price if only for hearing aids.

My husband paid about half as much for new aids as he did through his audiologist. He got a good hearing evaluation and their continuing customer service is excellent.

[lillypaddle]

3. Your post encouraged me to open my package and review my changes

Insurance premium stayed the same at $26 per month
Total out-of-pocket for the year went down and is $4,500
1 free eye exam every year and $200 credit toward purchase of frames/lenses every 2 years
GOOD Rx coverage

Of course there is a lot more. I was thinking about changing plans, but this looks like a bargain to me, so I think I'll stay put. At $26/mo, can't beat it, can I?

[left-of-center2012]

4. May I ask what company you are with?

I've had Blue Cross Medicare Advantage HMO for several years and may want to change.
Thanks

[question everything]

5. Ucare but I don't know if it operates outside Minnesota

Still, I don't think that it operates in a vacuum. I suspect that many will do the same.

And to add, since some here pay a very low premium: mine will be $139 and does not have drugs deductible.

It will cover up to two hearing aids per year, and up to three hearing aid fittings and evaluation.

My copay for Advanced Aid will be $699 per aid and $999 for Premium Aids.

Will report later next year.