Senior Health Insurance in California

Kyle Besser

The cost of living in California is higher on average than almost anywhere else in the United States, except for New York City. It is difficult for families with both adults working to make ends meet. For retired individuals on a fixed income through Medicare, it can be extremely difficult.

Even a good 401K plan cannot cover all expenses for many older citizens, especially if an individual has a chronic health issue requiring long-term care and permanent prescription medications. The costs of medications are often far beyond the coverage provided by Medicare. This means that supplemental senior health insurance is essential for older Americans to afford the medicines required and doctor appointments.

Senior health insurance in California can actually be acquired from several sources. HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program) can assist in finding additional sources of health care, as well as resolving issues with Medicare that may arise. The organization is well versed in consumer rights in regards to senior health insurance in California, as well as the understanding of the coverage provided by both Medicare and other policies of senior health insurance in California. The agency also assists in filing insurance claims for both Medicare and alternative or supplemental senior health insurance in California.

In choosing an insurance plan as a senior citizen, you want to be careful to choose both the best coverage options that are compatible with Medicare since this will be your primary coverage as well as the cost.

For those who have not reached the age of retirement, it is essential to begin thinking about the cost of senior health insurance as early in life as possible so that this forecasted premium can be calculated into your 401K plan. If you save the extra money to be spent on the expense of future needs, you will be setting yourself up in a better position to at least feel secure in your ability to pay for supplemental senior health insurance in California.

Even if you are beyond the ability to save money in your 401K, you can still afford supplemental insurance. Through either HICAP or through your primary care physician, you can request information on low cost insurance policies. Whatever you do, be sure to prepare for your future, especially in a market like California, where income may drop but cost of living remains high.