LifeTimes October 2021

Living well after 50 Tampa Bay Times

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Wednesday, October 27, 2021

MEDICARE 2022

The open enrollment period is here. If you are 65 and over it’s time to review and update your health care coverage with help from our annual guide.

CROSSWORD Small Wonder, by Merl Reagle ACROSS 1 5 10 14 17 19 21 22 23 24 25 27 28 30 31 33 34 35 36 37 39 41 42 44 45 48 49 51 54 57 58 60 62 63 64 66 67 70 72 74 77

Like Legree State Farm rival Chooses Madrid madam: abbr.

It’s a western star!

Faust’s doomed love It’s an actor!

Kept a tight rein (on) Elevation Flipper’s need?

Miller or Moore Defame Bivouac sight Will designee Mode beginning Brazilian greeting La-la lead-in Enzyme ending Poker Flat chronicler Like some 1960s shirts Salem, Mass., county Windy day sight Barely gets (by) Surprise ending exclamation Singer Como, familiarly Raggedy doll Turn a ___ (speak well) Area measure: abbr.

It’s an East Coast port of entry!

Li’l comics character Two-continent person Kelp-covered Albee play, ___ Story President pro ___ Shrewd Tart whistle-wetter Ring thrust Adjust, as one’s voice Unspoiled Guy who pitches It’s another actor!

80 Meaningful sign 81 German chancellor Angela 83 Alter, in a way 84 Actress June 86 Dresden’s river 87 ___ in a poke 89 Haggard, proudly 90 Parts of some sweatshirts 94 1942 Abbott & Costello flick 96 Gluck opera, ___ ed Euridice 98 Merry, to Maurice 100 Weightlifter’s unit, briefly 101 Conducive to skidding 102 Napoleon’s field marshal 103 Peeper phenomena 104 “Sweet” girl of song 106 Punished, in Singapore 108 “We’ll see” 110 Singer Vikki 111 A party to 112 Reached 114 It’s an action that often involves picketers!

117 Oil-resistant synthetic rubber 118 It’s a Miss Piggy quality!

119 Nine-digit ID 120 Address label abbr.

121 Opry star Red 122 Melville novel

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Vapors The king, to Torquemada Part of APB Some relations Circumference Inky, to a poet Child preoccupier Tanzania’s founder, Julius ___

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 26 29 30 32 36 38 40 41 43 46 47 48 50 51 52 53 55 56 59 61 64 65 67 68 69 70 71

Skillful Damsel intimidator Assess proportionally First name of a media mogul Inscribed pillars It’s a city!

New chance for an old movie Hook ___ Rotor sounds Together Sox town, for short Jalopy 1997 Super Bowl champs Prepare for takeoff Come out of one’s shell Daffy has one One-horned man?

Certain race Jane Austen title character “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” composer Recognize Emulated Mata-Hari Get together Revival meeting word Pluto, to Plato “___ who?”

Status follower ___-Magnon Actor Ed Seasonal, in a way 14 pounds in England Adams and others Subject, on quiz shows “Up and ___!”

Capt. Kirk Hydrocarbon suffix Jerry’s partner in a freezer Word after home or film Samson vs. the Philistines locale

The crossword puzzle solution is on Page 25.

72 73 74 75 76 78 79 82

TV Marine Up ___ good They’re free Washables requiring special care It’s the biology teacher on Our Miss Brooks!

Gets cookin’ Melange Held up in traffic

85 Thurber’s birthplace 88 Bill’s request?

89 Edison, “the Wizard ___ Park” 91 Venezuelan river 92 Indicate 93 Worn out 95 Assassins’ victim of 1984 97 Snub 98 Swedish import to Tinsel

Town 99 Gulch 104 Reviewer Vincent 105 It’s on your plate: abbr.

107 Lenore’s lamenter: inits.

109 Mideast gulf 110 Inviting word 113 Place to surf 115 Adjective ending 116 Tuberous yummy

LifeTimes is produced and designed by the Marketing department of the Tampa Bay Times.

EDITOR: Andrea Daly, adaly@tampabay.com ATTENTION BUSINESSES: Reach more than 467,800 LifeTimes readers* To advertise, call 1-880-333-7505, ext. 8725 or email sales@tampabay.com To submit story ideas, email lifetimes@tampabay.com *Source: 2019 Nielsen Scarborough Report (r2)

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LIFETIMES

Medicare 2022

This special section is online at tampabay.com/medicare

Be sure your plan is all you need it to be

BY DONNA WINCHESTER Times Correspondent

I

t’s time for the estimated 4.8 million Floridians enrolled in Medicare to review their health care coverage, do some comparison shopping and decide whether to change plans.

The annual Medicare annual enrollment period starts Friday, when people covered under the federal health insurance program for those 65 and older can reevaluate their coverage.

During the enrollment period, which lasts through Dec. 7, they can decide whether to switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage; from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare; from one Medicare Advantage plan to another; from one Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to another; or enroll in a Medicare Part D plan if they did not enroll when they first were eligible for Medicare.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the 2022 premiums, deductibles and other key information for Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans in late September.

There are many options and many rules, which makes Medicare a challenge to navigate.

The Tampa Bay Times’ Medicare Guide breaks down the various parts of Medicare and offers charts for plan comparison to help beneficiaries, who have a wide array of choices this year.

The Medicare Advantage enrollment process varies slightly by plan, but in all cases, you must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. If you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan during the annual enrollment period and later change your mind, you can drop the plan and go back to Original Medicare (Parts A and B) during the Medicare Annual Disenrollment Period, which begins Jan. 1.

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If you don’t disenroll during this period, you must keep your plan for the rest of the year unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment.

Here are some points to consider:

• While the average premium for Medicare Advantage plans nationally will be lower in 2022 — $19 per month compared to $21.22 in 2021 — the average monthly premium for Floridians is increasing 2.1 percent, from $8.36 to $8.54.

• The CMS has not yet released the 2022 Medicare Parts A and B premiums and deductibles.

As in prior years, Parts A and B premiums and deductibles for the upcoming calendar year will be announced this fall.

• Additionally, the average 2022 premiums for Part D coverage will increase 4.9 percent to approximately $33 per month compared to $31.47 in 2021.

Nevertheless, as 10,000 people in the U.S. turn 65 every day, the federal government projects enrollment in Medicare Advantage to reach 29.5 million in 2022 compared to 26.9 million in 2021.

There are some bright spots for Floridians. To start with, 583 Medicare Advantage plans are available in 2022, compared to 526 plans in 2021. Every individual eligible for Medicare will have access to a Medicare Advantage plan with no monthly premium.

Through the CMS Innovation Center’s Value-Based Insurance Design Model, 163 plans will offer Medicare Advantage enrollees eliminated Part D cost-sharing, rewards and incentives programs related to healthy behaviors.

There are also customized benefits that address social determinants of health, such as food insecurity and social isolation for some enrollees who are underserved and may also be chronically ill.

Additionally, 244 Medicare Advantage plans with prescription drug coverage will offer lower out-

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The enrollment period has started and there are new options to look at. Seniors have until Dec. 7 to choose.

of-pocket insulin costs through the Part D Senior Savings Model, and seven Medicare Advantage plans will offer a Medicare hospice benefit.

BayCare Health System is launching three plans for 2022 geared toward providing both benefits and savings that will be available in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties.

All three — BayCare Plus Complete, BayCare Plus Premier, and BayCare Plus Rewards — promise a large network of Tampa Bay doctors and hospitals, coverage when traveling worldwide, and money-saving extra benefits including dental, vision and fitness club memberships. BayCarePlus Premier boasts a “no referrals” policy.

BayCarePlus Rewards offers a Part B premium reduction of $113 per month. BayCare Plus Complete and BayCare Plus Premier offer special benefits for diabetics.

Humana is offering Tampa Bay area residents five plans for 2022 with lowered copays for several services, such as inpatient and outpatient care, emergency room visits and some therapies, and lower medical out-of-pocket maximums.

Some plans will offer a new Flex Card, a $250 debit card that enrollees can use to cover out-ofpocket costs for dental, hearing and vision services or devices.

“After considering the needs of our members and how we could offer them more for 2022, we designed our Medicare plans to address people’s whole-life needs with a particular focus on their most important health care needs,” said Humana retail segment president Alan Wheatley.

Cigna is offering four plans to residents in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco and Hernando counties.

New program offerings for 2022 include the addition of a Senior Savings Model to several plans and addition of a Social Connection Program that connects

members with a partner who will assist them with daily living activities such as transportation, meal preparation and chores.

“Many older adults have had virtual care visits during the pandemic, and they have indicated to us their desire to continue them even after the pandemic ends,” said Christine Leo, who oversees product development for Cigna’s Medicare Advantage products.

Aetna, which this year is expanding coverage to reach more than 5.8 million veterans over 65, is also beefing up its rewards program to help enrollees improve their health and well-being.

Members can earn $150 or more by completing activities such as preventive screenings and annual physicals.

Five local plans include a healthful food card allowance for members to spend each quarter at approved stores, transportation to and from medical appointments, and telehealth services, which feature office visits with health care providers using interactive twoway, real-time audio and video technology.

How Medicare works

Part A and Part B generally are the most popular programs and tend to offer the most services for those who qualify.

Part A covers inpatient hospital care, nursing home care, hospice care and home health care. These services usually are free, which means there’s no premium to pay.

Part B covers two types of services: those that are medically necessary, such as outpatient hospital care, doctor bills, physical therapy and more; and preventive services and detection of illnesses at an early stage, when treatment is likely to work best.

Part B is optional and costs most people a monthly premium, which is projected to be $144.60 for most enrollees in 2022. The premium is higher for some, depending on in-

come; for 2022, an income-related surcharge will be added to premiums of Medicare Part B if the beneficiary earns more than $90,000, or $180,000 for married couples.

The premium is a bit lower for those who choose to have the premium deducted from their Social Security check.

Unless you are still on an employer’s health plan, it makes sense to sign up for Part B when you first become eligible for Medicare regardless of your current health. You will face a penalty if you decide you need this coverage later — up to 10 percent for each year you could have had Part B but didn’t sign up for it, a penalty that will continue in effect for as long as you have Part B. Part C refers to Medicare Advantage plans. These plans, subsidized by taxpayers, are managed by private insurance companies through either an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) or a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization). Individuals choose medical providers from a predetermined list. The plans offer bundles that include Part A, Part B, and usually a prescription drug program (Part D).

Enrollment in Medicare Advantage nationwide rose from 10 million in 2008 to 25 million in 2020 and now accounts for an increasing share of all Medicare beneficiaries. Despite the rapid growth, the total number of Medicare beneficiaries has risen even faster — from roughly 45 million to some 68 million — meaning Medicare Advantage has plenty of room to grow.

More than 44 percent of Florida Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in Advantage plans. Miami-Dade County leads all counties in the nation for penetration rate — the percentage of those enrolled who are eligible — at 67 percent, according to CMS. For 2022, monthly premiums . See MEDICARE, 6

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. MEDICARE

continued from 4 will range from free to as high as $147.90. All Florida residents who qualify for Medicare have access to a Medicare Advantage Plan with no monthly premium but should weigh the pros and cons of a low or non-existent monthly charge based on their health needs.

Medicare Advantage plans will continue to offer a wide range of supplemental benefits in 2022, including eyewear, hearing aids, both preventive and comprehensive dental benefits, access to meals, over-the-counter items, fitness benefits and worldwide emergency/urgent coverage. CMS reports that the number of plans offering special supplemental benefits for chronically ill individuals will increase from 19 percent to 25 percent.

It’s important to note that Part A and Part B services under Original Medicare come with deductibles and copays. These costs can be covered by buying private Medicare supplement policies known as Medigap. Premiums tend to be high, but the extra coverage can be worth it in the event of catastrophic illness.

Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage?

Coverage: Original Medicare covers most medically necessary services and supplies in hospitals, doctors’ offices, and other healthcare facilities but does not cover services such as eye exams, most dental care and routine exams.

You can join a separate Medicare drug plan to get Medicare drug coverage (Part D). In most cases, you don’t have to get a service or supply approved ahead of time for Original Medicare to cover it.

Medicare Advantage plans must cover all the medically necessary services that Original Medicare does. Most plans offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as some routine exams and vision, hearing and dental services. Medicare drug coverage (Part D) is included in most plans.

In some cases, you must get a service or supply approved ahead of time for the plan to cover it.

You may be able to get Medicare drug coverage that offers broad access to many types of insulin for no more than $35 for a month’s

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supply. You can get this savings on insulin if you join a Medicare drug plan or Medicare Advantage Plan with drug coverage that participates in the insulin savings model.

This model lets you choose among drug plans that offer insulin at a predictable and affordable cost.

Doctor and hospital choice: Original Medicare allows you to see any doctor or hospital that takes Medicare, anywhere in the U.S. In most cases, you won’t need a referral to see a specialist.

Medicare Advantage plans in many cases require you to use doctors and other providers who are in the plan’s network, at least for nonemergency care. Some plans offer nonemergency coverage out of network but at higher cost. You may need to get a referral to see a specialist.

Cost: For Part B-covered services, Original Medicare usually requires you to pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount after you meet your deductible; this is called your co-insurance.

You pay a premium (monthly payment) for Part B. If you choose to join a Medicare drug plan, you’ll pay a separate premium for your Medicare drug coverage (Part D). There is no yearly limit to what you pay out of pocket unless you have supplemental coverage such as Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap).

With Medicare Advantage, out-of-pocket costs vary; plans have different costs for certain services. You pay the monthly Part B premium and may also have to pay the plan’s premium. Plans may have zero premium and may help pay all or part of your Part B premium. Most plans include Medicare drug coverage (Part D). Plans have a yearly limit on what you pay out of pocket for services that Medicare Part A and Part B cover. Once you reach your plan’s limit, you’ll pay nothing for services Part A and Part B cover for the rest of the year.

Drug coverage

You should have prescription drug coverage as soon as you are eligible for Medicare — if not through an employer or some other source, such as a union or the Department of Veterans Affairs, you may want to consider purchasing either a Part D drug plan if you are on Original Medicare or

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a Medicare Advantage plan that covers drugs.

If you don’t have coverage as soon as you are eligible and need it later, Medicare can charge you a late penalty, so it’s worth thinking about even if you don’t use any prescription drugs.

The gap

A coverage gap, known as the “donut hole,” begins once you reach your Medicare Part D plan’s initial coverage limit. In 2022, that amount is $4,430. It ends when you spend a certain amount out of pocket, which in 2022 is $7,050.

In 2022, part D enrollees will receive a 75 percent “donut hole discount” on the total cost of their brand-name drugs purchased while in the donut hole. Seventy percent of the discount will be paid by the brand-name drug manufacturer and 5 percent will be paid by the Medicare Part D plan.

Not all enrollees will reach the donut hole, but those who do will pay a maximum 25 percent co-pay on generic drugs purchased while in the coverage

gap – in other words, receiving a 75 percent discount.

Extra help

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has updated the Medical Plan Finder (visit bit.ly/2YDQU40) with 2022 Medicare health and prescription plan information. Additionally, a toll-free line — 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) — is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to provide help in English and Spanish.

Medicare’s Extra Help program helps low-income Medicare recipients pay their monthly premiums, annual deductibles and copayments related to Medicare Part D. CMS estimates this benefit is worth about $5,000 per year. To find out if you qualify and to apply, call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213, apply online at socialsecurity.gov or visit bit.ly/3v6zBVt. The federal government offers Medicare Savings Programs to help low-income seniors and adults with disabilities with Medicare premiums. In some cases,

Medicare Savings Programs may also pay Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B deductibles, coinsurance and copayments. To see if you qualify and learn how to apply, call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-7721213 or visit bit.ly/2YDPBC8 to learn about savings programs.

Still confused?

The Florida SHINE program — Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders — is a free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the local Area Agency on Aging. Volunteers are available who can help you navigate Medicare’s website and assist in finding the plan that best suits you. Visit floridashine.org/ or call them toll-free at 1-800-963-5337.

Important Links: Original Medicare: bit.ly/3ashIad Medicare Advantage: bit.ly/3as1Q7A 2022 Medicare Plan Finder: bit.ly/2YDQU40 Medigap: bit.ly/3lwAcwv

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STEP BY STEP

Sally Anderson

Photos by Dan Canoro

HOW NOT TO LOSE WEIGHT

Along with our good exercise habits, let us not forget our healthy eating habits. In combination, the two are an effective team in maintaining physical and mental health, while also being an effective weight loss strategy.

The burning of calories through physical activity combined with reducing the number of calories you consume will create a calorie deficit. But how can we maintain the weight loss? Only about 20 percent of people who lose weight maintain their new lower weight.

This is where exercising comes back into play. Research tells us physical activity increases your chances of maintaining that weight loss. If you haven’t been exercising, you might want to start taking a brisk walk after meals for 10 or 20 minutes, hop on a stationary bike or enjoy water aerobics. Walking in water also helps with balance and even household chores count as good exercise.

When it comes to maintaining weight loss, some nutritional habits can cause “bumps in the road” for those wanting to lose weight. Here are four habits to avoid:

Skipping meals Skipping meals lowers your metabolism, resulting in burning fewer calories. This makes it harder to lose weight and lowers your energy level needed to function. When you start skipping meals or go a long time without eating, your body goes into what is called a survival mode, causing the body to crave food. By skipping a meal, you are much more likely to overeat later in the day.

Relying on crash diets Crash diets also lower your metabolism and deprive your body of essential nutrients. The sudden surprise in early weight loss is usually from water weight. The rapid weight loss can also increase your risk of dehydration. While you may notice a quick weight loss in the

beginning, you can be assured it will be returning.

Eliminating carbohydrates

Select good carbs, not no carbs. Not all carbs are created equal. Plantbased carbohydrates that give us fiber, vitamins and minerals such as whole grains, beans, veggies and fruits are part of a healthy diet. The “bad carbs” that come from white bread, sugary sodas and other highly processed foods are the foods to avoid or limit.

Not reading food labels To

help lose or maintain weight, it’s helpful to check food labels.

Calories per serving and unhealthy nutrients like added sugars, saturated fats, sodium and simple carbohydrates are important to check when eating healthy.

Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

Sally Anderson is happy to hear from readers but can’t respond to individual inquiries. Contact her at slafit@tampabay.rr.com

Your Move | Demonstrated by Rita Hopkins A mix of cardio and strength exercises High Knee Lifts with Arm Swings

Targets core while strengthening leg muscles.

• Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, abdominals contracted.

• Run or march in place while lifting right knee upward toward chest as you swing bent left arm forward with control.

• Bring right foot down, lifting left knee while swinging right arm forward.

• Repeat 30 seconds, building to one or two minutes.

Tip: Avoid leaning forward as that can place too much stress on your back.

Fast Feet with Punches Targets shoulders, hips, legs.

• Begin standing with feet slightly wider than hips, knees slightly bent.

• Bend arms with fists about shoulder height.

• Take small quick alternating steps with feet or just lift heels while you are extending alternating arms into quick punches.

• Repeat 30 seconds, building to one or two minutes.

Tip: Begin with just fast feet moving, then add the punch movements.

Wood Chop with Medicine Ball

Targets abdominals, shoulders, back and glutes.

• You may use a weight, bodyweight or medicine ball.

• Standing with feet shoulder-width apart, hold medicine ball chest level with both hands.

• Contracting abdominals, rotate torso to the right as you raise ball over right shoulder.

• Squat while bringing ball diagonally across the body toward outside of left knee.

• Repeat pattern 10-12 times, change sides and repeat pattern.

Tip: Avoid rushing, it’s all about control. You should be using core muscles to control the movement.

Mountain Climbers

Considered a full body exercise while working on your cardio.

• Begin in a long arm plank position.

• Place shoulders directly over hands and keep your back flat, buttocks down.

• Contracting abdominals pull right knee in toward your elbow.

• Return knee to original position, while immediately bringing left knee toward elbow.

• Continue switching legs for 30 seconds to a minute.

Tip: Maintain form by executing this exercise slowly.

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LIFETIMES

Medicare 2022

How to use the Times Medicare charts What’s in the chart

Type: This chart shows three types of health plans with drug coverage: HMO, PPO and HMOPOS. They are explained below.

Counties served: Indicates whether plans are available in Hernando (Her.), Hillsborough (Hills.), Pasco and Pinellas (Pin.) counties.

Premium: The monthly charge for the plan. If there is one, it is in addition to the standard Part B premium that most beneficiaries pay to Medicare, which was $148.50 for 2021. The 2022 Part B monthly premium was projected to remain at $148.50 as of late September.

Part B reduction: Some plans pay part of the monthly Part B premium. This “premium reduction” — also called a rebate or a “premium give back” — is considered an additional benefit offered by a plan. It’s usually returned to consumers in their monthly Social Security check. The chart indicates whether a plan offers a premium reduction. Since reductions can differ based on each beneficiary’s situation, please contact the insurer to find out the amount.

Drug deductible: In some plans, a deductible is paid before drug coverage kicks in. A drug deductible may not apply to all medications or tiers.

Doctor copay: This is the cost of every visit to the doctor. The first dollar figure is for primary care physicians; the second is for specialists. Costs are listed for physicians inside the network (Net) and outside the network (Out).

Hospital copay: This is the cost every time a patient is admitted to a hospital — both inside the network (Net) and outside the network (Out). For outpatient hospital coverage, refer to Medicare’s Plan Finder (bit.ly/2YDQU40).

Yearly cost (Est.): Medicare’s estimated out-of-pocket costs under this plan, including the Part B premium and drug costs. It is based on an average person in good health, but could vary greatly depending on the actual drugs and services needed. The best way to project costs is to use Medicare’s Plan Finder.

Out-of-pocket cap: The maximum of payments for the year inside the network (Net) and outside the network (Out). The lower the cap, the better.

IMPORTANT: These out-of-pocket limits do not apply to prescription drug costs.

Generics in the gap: Whether a plan pays for generic drugs in the coverage gap, or “donut hole,” which in 2022 starts when total drug costs paid by the plan hit $4,430. The beneficiary exits the donut hole when out-

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This special section is online at tampabay.com/medicare of-pocket costs (paid by the subscriber) reach $7,050.

Rating: Medicare rates plans from 1 to 5 stars, based on customer satisfaction and certain health measures.

The top rating is a 5. People with Medicare can switch into a 5-star plan at any time during the year, even if it’s not during an enrollment period.

What’s not in the chart Private Fee for Service Plans (PFFS) and Special Needs Plans (SNPs): See explanation below and medicare.gov for details.

Medicare supplement plans: Also known as Medigap, this coverage helps pay some health care costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover. Shop for those plans here: bit.ly/3lwAcwv.

Copayments for other services: Plans usually charge copayments for drugs, skilled nursing homes, ambulances, emergency rooms and many other services.

Check individual plans for these details.

Goodies: Some plans offer some dental, hearing and vision coverage, exercise classes, transportation to the doctor and other extra benefits. Check plans for details.

Health plans without drugs: A few plans are cheaper because they do not offer drug coverage. Unless one has comparable coverage elsewhere, using these plans can result in stiff penalties if that person ever wants Medicare drug coverage in later years.

Health plans: how they differ Medicare allows several types of private health plans, which cover all care. Here is how they differ: HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Generally requires the use of providers within a network. A personal physician usually coordinates care and may need to approve visits to specialists.

PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): Encourages the use of providers within a network, with low copayments, but also allows the use of providers outside the network at a higher cost. Usually allows the use of specialists within the network without prior approval of a personal physician. Some bigger companies allow the use of their PPOs in other states.

Verify before signing up.

HMO-POS (HMO-Point of Service): A hybrid between an HMO and PPO. Usually requires staying within a network and may require the approval of a personal physician before seeing network specialists. It may cover some care outside the network. Some POS plans approve very little coverage outside the network, so check plans for details.

PFFS (Private Fee for Service): Has network, but allows members to get care outside the network if the provider will accept the plan’s payment, which many do not. Make sure provider will accept payment before incurring bills.

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Special Needs Plans: People with certain chronic conditions like diabetes and COPD can sometimes qualify for a Special Needs Plan, which may include extra services for managing their disease. The consumer should make sure they qualify before purchasing. People living in nursing homes may also qualify for special plans, as can those on Medicaid.

LIFETIMES

Medicare 2022

Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage PREM.

PART B REDUCT.

DRUG DEDUCT.

DOCTOR COPAY (PER VISIT)

HOSPITAL COPAY

OUT-OF POCKET CAP

GENERICS IN GAP?

RATINGS OUT OF 5 STARS

PLAN

TYPE

COUNTIES SERVED

AARP Medicare Advantage H1045-028 Contact: 800-643-4845

HMOPOS

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $35 Out: N/A

Net: $280 daily for 6 days Out: N/A

Net: $4,900 Out: N/A

Yes

AARP Medicare Advantage Choice H2406-011 Contact: 800-643-4845

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$150

Net: $5, $35 Out: $45, $70

Net: $295 daily for 5 days Out: 40%/stay

Net: $5,500 In and Out of network: $10,000

Yes

AARP Medicare Advantage Choice Plan 2 R0759-001 Contact: 800-643-4845

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$395

Net: $10, $50 Out: $40, $70

Net: $395 daily for 4 days Out: 40%/stay

Net: $6,700 In and Out of network: $10,000

No

AARP Medicare Advantage Focus H1045-045 Contact: 800-627-7806

HMO-POS

Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $20 Out: N/A

Net: $195 daily for 4 days

Net: $3,400 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

Aetna Medicare Choice H1609-028 Contact: 833-859-6031; TTY 711

HMO-POS

Hills., Pin.

$0

No

$195

Net: $0, $40 Out: N/A, $50

Net: $365 daily for 4 days Out: 50%/stay

Net: $6,700 In and Out of network: $10,000

Yes

 1/2

Aetna Medicare Credit H1609-060 Contact: 833-859-6031; TTY 711

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $25 Out: N/A

Net: $150 daily for 7 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,450 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

Aetna Medicare Premier H5521-033 Contact: 833-859-6031; TTY 711

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$300

Net: $15, $50 Out: $50, $50

Net: $395 daily for 4 days Out: 50%/stay

Net: $6,700 In and Out of network: $10,000

Yes

 1/2

Aetna Medicare Premier Plus H5521-270 Contact: 833-859-6031; TTY 711

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$150

Net: $0, $35 Out: $55, $70

Net: $295 daily for 4 days Out: 50%/stay

Net: $5,500 In and Out of network: $10,000

Yes

 1/2

Aetna Medicare Select H1609-034 Contact: 833-859-6031; TTY 711

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $5 Out: N/A

Net: $50 daily for 7 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,500 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

BayCare Plus Complete H2235-001 Contact: 866-947-5820; TTY 711

HMO

Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $15 Out: N/A

Net: $175 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,500 Out: N/A

No



BayCarePlus Premier H2235-003 Contact: 866-947-5820; TTY 711

HMO

Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$34

No

$0

Net: $0, $10 Out: N/A

Net: $150 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,800 Out: No

No



BayCarePlus Rewards H2235-002 Contact: 866-947-5820; TTY 711

HMO

Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $35 Out: N/A

Net: $250 daily for 6 days Out: N/A

Net: $4,500 Out: N/A

No



  1/2



Chart continued on page 12

Note: Shading on the chart indicates plans offered by the same company.

SSP Tampa Bay Times

| Wednesday, October 27, 2021 |

11

LIFETIMES

Medicare 2022

continued from page 11

Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage COUNTIES SERVED

PREM.

PART B REDUCT.

DRUG DEDUCT.

DOCTOR COPAY (PER VISIT)

HOSPITAL COPAY

OUT-OF POCKET CAP

GENERICS IN GAP?

RATINGS OUT OF 5 STARS



PLAN

TYPE

BlueMedicare Choice R3332-001 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$51.90

No

$250

Net: $10, $50 Out: 50%/visit

Net: $345 daily for 5 days Out: $495 daily for 27 days

Net: $6,500 In and Out of network: $10,000

Yes

BlueMedicare Classic H1035-021 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $40 Out: N/A

Net: $235 daily for 8 days Out: N/A

Net: $4,900 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

BlueMedicare Premier H1035-023 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

HMO

Hills.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $15 Out: N/A

Net: $125 daily for 6 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,000 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

BlueMedicare Premier H1035-034 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

HMO

Her., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $10 Out: N/A

Net: $125 daily for 6 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,400 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

BlueMedicare Saver H1035-037 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

HMO

Hills, Pin.

$0

Yes

$50

Net: $0, $45 Out: N/A

Net: $300 daily for 7 days Out: N/A

Net: $6,700 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

BlueMedicare Select H5434-002 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

PPO

Hills, Pin.

$147.90

No

$305

Net: $5, $45 Out: 40%/visit

Net: $225 daily for 7 days Out: $200 daily for 27 days

Net: $5,900 In and Out of network: $10,000

Yes



BlueMedicare Value H5434-023 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

PPO

Pin.

$0

No

$150

Net: $0-10, $30-43 Out: $50%/visit

Net: $295 daily for 5 days Out: $50%/stay

Net: $4,500 In and Out of network: $10,000

Yes



BlueMedicare Value H5434-034 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

PPO

Hills.

$0

No

$150

Net: $0 $35-48 Out: $50%/visit

Net: $275 daily for 6 days Out: $50%/stay

Net: $4,000 Out: $10,000

Yes



BlueMedicare Value H5434-035 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

PPO

Her., Pasco

$0

No

$150

Net: $0 -10 $30-43 Out: $50%/visit

Net: $295 daily for 5 days Out: $50%/stay

Net: $4,500 Out: $10,000

Yes



Bright Advantage Health Dollars H4709-001 Contact: 844-679-2028

HMO

Pasco

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $0 Out: N/A

Net: $50 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,450 Out: N/A

Yes

Too new to measure

Bright Advantage Health Dollars H3281-001 Contact: 844-679-2028

PPO

Pasco

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $15 Out: $0, $25

Net: $225 daily for 5 days Out: 40% days 1-90

Net: $4,400 In and Out of network: $10,000

Yes

Too new to measure

Chart continued on page 16

Note: Shading on the chart indicates plans offered by the same company.

12

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Wednesday, October 27, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

SSP

SSP Tampa Bay Times

| Wednesday, October 27, 2021 |

13

14

|

Wednesday, October 27, 2021 |

Tampa Bay Times

SSP

SSP

Tampa Bay Times

|

Wednesday, October 27, 2021

|

15

LIFETIMES

Medicare 2022

continued from page 12

Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage HOSPITAL COPAY

GENERICS IN GAP?

RATINGS OUT OF 5 STARS

TYPE

Bright Advantage Part B Savings H4709-029 Contact: 844-679-2028

HMO

Pasco

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $15 Out: N/A

Net: $195 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,500 Out: N/A

Yes

Too new to measure

Bright Advantage Part B Savings H3281-010 Contact: 844-679-2028

PPO

Pasco

$0

Yes

$110

Net: $0, $30 Out: 0-$40

Net: $235 daily for 7 days Out: 40% days 1-90

Net: $4,400 In and Out of network: $10,000

Yes

Too new to measure

CareFree H1019-104 Contact: 800-794-4105

HMO

Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $20 Out: N/A

Net: $125 daily for 4 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,750 Out: N/A

Yes



CareOne PLATINUM H1019-111 Contact: 800-794-4105

HMO

Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $10 Out: N/A

Net: $40 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,400 Out: N/A

Yes



CareOne PLUS H1019-103 Contact: 800-794-4105

HMO

Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $5 Out: N/A

Net: $20 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $1,900 Out: N/A

Yes



Cigna Preferred Medicare H5410-029 Contact: 855-980-3041

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $0 Out: N/A

Net: $150 daily for 6 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,650 Out: N/A

No



Cigna Preferred Savings Medicare H5410-030 Contact: 855-980-3041

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $15 Out: N/A

Net: $199 daily for 7 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,950 Out: N/A

No



Cigna Primary Medicare H5410-035 Contact: 855-980-3041

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$22.40

No

$480

Net: $0, $0 Out: N/A

Net: $25 daily for 6 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,500 Out: N/A

No



Cigna True Choice Medicare H7849-048 Contact: 855-980-3041

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $25 Out: $40, $55

Net: $240 daily for 7 days Out: 40% per stay

Net: $5,650 In and Out of network: $11,150

No

 ½

Devoted Health Core Greater Tampa Bay H1290-036 Contact: 800-376-5889

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $5 Out: N/A

Net: $25 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $1,900 Out: N/A

Yes

 ½

Devoted Health Essentials Greater Tampa Bay H1290-016 Contact: 800-376-5889

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $30 Out: N/A

Net: $195 daily for 6 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,400 Out: N/A

No

 ½

Devoted Health Latitude Greater Tampa Bay H9884-005 Contact: 800-376-5889

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$150

Net: $0, $30 Out: $0-$60

Net: $295 daily for 5 days Out: $295 daily for 5 days

Net: $4,900 In and Out of network: $10,000

Yes

Too new to measure

Chart continued on page 17

Note: Shading on the chart indicates plans offered by the same company.

| Wednesday, October 27, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

DRUG DEDUCT.

OUT-OF POCKET CAP

PLAN

16

PREM.

PART B REDUCT.

DOCTOR COPAY (PER VISIT)

COUNTIES SERVED

SSP

LIFETIMES

Medicare 2022

continued from page 16

Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage COUNTIES SERVED

PREM.

PART B REDUCT.

DRUG DEDUCT.

DOCTOR COPAY (PER VISIT)

HOSPITAL COPAY

OUT-OF POCKET CAP

GENERICS IN GAP?

RATINGS OUT OF 5 STARS

PLAN

TYPE

Devoted Health Prime H1290-038 Contact: 800-376-5889

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$34.30

No

$480

Net: $0, $0 Out: N/A

Net: $0 Out: N/A

Net: $2,900 Out: N/A

No

Freedom Medicare Plan Rx H5427-060 Contact: 888-300-9318

HMO

Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $35 Out: N/A

Net: $150 daily for 7 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,400 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

HumanaChoice R5826-005 Contact: 800-833-2364

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$114.00

No

$100

Net: $5, $45 Out: $65, $65

Net: $250 daily for 7 days Out: 40%/stay

Net: $6,700 In and Out of network: $10,000

No

 1/2

HumanaChoice R5826-074 Contact: 800-833-2364

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$8

No

$395

Net: $35, $50 Out: 50%, 50%

Net: $625 daily for 3 days Out: $725 daily for 14 days

Net: $7,550 In and Out of network: $10,500

No

 1/2

HumanaChoice Florida H5216-072 Contact: 800-833-2364

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$150

Net: $5, $40 Out: $65, $65

Net: $290 daily for 4 days Out: $495 daily for 27 days

Net: $5,000 In and Out of network: $10,000

No



Humana Gold Plus H1036-025 Contact: 800-833-2364

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $5 Out: N/A

Net: $20 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $1,900 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

Humana Gold Plus H1036-265 Contact: 800-833-2364

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $25 Out: N/A

Net: $150 daily for 8 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,750 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

Molina Medicare Choice Care H8130-010 Contact: 866-403-8293

HMO

Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$125

Net: $0, $10 Out: N/A

Net: $295 daily for 6 days Out: N/A

Net: $7,550 Out: N/A

No

  1/2

Molina Medicare Choice Care Select H8130-011 Contact: 866-403-8293

HMO

Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

Yes

$480

Net: $0, $50 Out: N/A

Net: $450 daily for 4 days Out: N/A

Net: $7,550 Out: N/A

No

  1/2

Optimum Gold Plus Plan H5594-032 Contact: 888-300-9317

HMO

Her.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $15 Out: N/A

Net: $75 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $1,900 Out: N/A

Yes

 1/2

Optimum Gold Rewards Plan H5594-001 Contact: 888-300-9317

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $15 Out: N/A

Net: $95 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $1,900 Out: N/A

Yes



Optimum Platinum Plan H5594-002 Contact: 888-300-9317

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $0 Out: N/A

Net: $0 Out: N/A

Net: $1,200 Out: N/A

Yes



 1/2

Chart continued on page 18

Note: Shading on the chart indicates plans offered by the same company.

SSP Tampa Bay Times

| Wednesday, October 27, 2021 |

17

LIFETIMES

Medicare 2022

continued from page 17

Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage COUNTIES SERVED

PREM.

PART B REDUCT.

DRUG DEDUCT.

DOCTOR COPAY (PER VISIT)

HOSPITAL COPAY

OUT-OF POCKET CAP

GENERICS IN GAP?

RATINGS OUT OF 5 STARS

PLAN

TYPE

Premier by Ultimate H2962-001 Contact: 855-858-7526

HMO

Her.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $20 Out: N/A

Net: $115 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,800 Out: N/A

Yes



Premier by Ultimate H2962-013-3 Contact: 855-858-7526

HMO

Pasco

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $20 Out: N/A

Net: $125 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,800 Out: N/A

Yes



Premier by Ultimate H2962-045 Contact: 855-858-7526

HMO

Hills., Pin.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $20 Out: N/A

Net: $120 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,800 Out: N/A

Yes



Premier Plus by Ultimate H2962-014-1 Contact: 855-858-7526

HMO

Her., Pasco

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $5 Out: N/A

Net: $0 daily for 90 days Out: N/A

Net: $1,500 Out: N/A

Yes



Simply Extra H5471-108 Contact: 888-679-0556

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $20 Out: N/A

Net: $175 daily for 6 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,450 Out: N/A

Yes

½

Simply More H5471-078 Contact: 855-679-0556

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $5 Out: N/A

Net: $50 daily for 8 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,450 Out: N/A

Yes

½

SOLIS SPF 009 H0982-009 Contact: 844-447-6547

HMO

Hills.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $5 Out: N/A

Net: $80 daily for 7 days Out: N/A

Net: $3,400 Out: N/A

Yes



WellCare Giveback H1032-200 Contact: 844-917-0175

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

Yes

$0

Net: $0, $20 Out: N/A

Net: $100 daily for 5 days Out: N/A

Net: $2,500 Out: N/A

Yes

½

WellCare No Premium H1032-201 Contact: 844-917-0175

HMO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$0

Net: $0, $0 Out: N/A

Net: $50 daily for 10 days Out: N/A

Net: $1,200 Out: N/A

Yes

½

WellCare No Premium Open H5199-012 Contact: 844-917-0175

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$0

No

$100

Net: $0, $25 Out: $0, $0-$275

Net: $225 daily for 6 days Out: $225 daily for 6 days

Net: $3,400 In and Out of network: $5,100

Yes



WellCare Premium Enhanced Open H5199-010 Contact: 844-917-0175

PPO

Her., Hills., Pasco, Pin.

$85

No

$0

Net: $0, $15 Out: $0, $15

Net: $100 daily for 6 days Out: $100 daily for 6 days

Net: $1,700 In and Out of network: $5,000

Yes



Note: Shading on the chart indicates plans offered by the same company.

18

| Wednesday, October 27, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

SSP

LIFETIMES Grab a cup of tea and some colored pencils, then lose yourself in coloring. It’s like yoga for your brain. It doesn’t even matter if you stay within the lines; this is your creative escape.

SSP Tampa Bay Times

| Wednesday, October 27, 2021 |

19

LIFETIMES

Medicare 2022

Stand-alone drug plans

What’s in the chart

Monthly premium: The monthly charge for each Medicare Part D drug plan. This is in addition to Medicare’s monthly Part B premium.

Annual deductible: What you pay out of pocket before coverage begins.

Generics in the gap: Whether a plan pays for generic drugs in the coverage

PLAN AARP MedicareRx Preferred S5820-010 Contact: 800-753-8004; TTY 711 AARP MedicareRx Saver Plus S5921-356 Contact: 800-753-8004; TTY 711 AARP MedicareRx Walgreens S5921-383 Contact: 800-753-8004; TTY 711

20

gap, which begins when drug costs hit $4,130 for the year and ends when your out-of-pocket expenses reach $7,050.

Some plans offer generics in the gap for select brands only.

Rating: Medicare rates plans from 1 to 5 stars, based on customer satisfaction and certain health measures. The top rating is a 5.

ANNUAL DEDUCT.

GENERICS IN GAP?

RATING: OUT OF 5 STARS

BlueMedicare Complete Rx S5904-002 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

$174.30

$0.00

Yes

1/2



BlueMedicare Premier Rx S5904-001 Contact: 888-902-5708; TTY 800-955-8770

$77.30

$480.00

No

1/2



Cigna Essential Rx S5617-290 Contact: 800-735-1459; TTY 711

$30.20

$480.00

No

1/2

ANNUAL DEDUCT.

GENERICS IN GAP?

RATING: OUT OF 5 STARS

$101.20

$0.00

No

1/2

$63.20

$480.00

No

$29.30

$310.00

No

SSP

Medicare health costs: Drug plans are for people on Original Medicare, who also have expenses for doctors, hospitals and, sometimes, supplemental plans. People with higher incomes may also pay higher Part B premiums and drug plan premiums.

Total drug costs: Out-of-pocket costs can vary widely depending on which drugs you use. For an estimated total cost of different plans, enter your specific drugs into Medicare’s online Plan Finder and search for drug plans.

MONTHLY PREMIUM

MONTHLY PREMIUM

| Wednesday, October 27, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

What’s not in the chart

PLAN

MONTHLY PREMIUM

ANNUAL DEDUCT.

GENERICS IN GAP?

RATING: OUT OF 5 STARS

Cigna Extra Rx S5617-256 Contact: 800-735-1459; TTY 711

$66.80

$100.00

Yes

1/2

Cigna Secure Rx S5617-053 Contact: 800-735-1459; TTY 711

$33.10

$480.00

No

Clear Spring Health Premier Rx S6946-037 Contact: 877-317-6082

$19.70

$480.00

Clear Spring Health Value Rx S6946-008 Contact: 877-317-6082

$29.40

Elixir RxSecure S7694-011 Contact: 888-377-1439; TTY 711

MONTHLY PREMIUM

ANNUAL DEDUCT.

GENERICS IN GAP?

RATING: OUT OF 5 STARS

Mutual of Omaha Rx Plus S7126-010 Contact: 800-961-9006; TTY 711

$93.30

$480.00

No

1/2

1/2

Mutual of Omaha Rx Premier S7126-080 Contact: 800-961-9006; TTY 711

$35.20

$480.00

No

1/2

No

1/2

SilverScript Choice S5601-022 Contact: 833-537-3386; TTY 711

$29.10

$480.00

No

1/2

$480.00

No



SilverScript Plus S5601-023 Contact: 833-537-3386; TTY 711

$63.40

$0.00

Yes

1/2

$66.10

$480.00

No



SilverScript SmartRx S5601-186 Contact: 833-537-3386; TTY 711

$7.70

$480.00

No

1/2

Humana Basic Rx Plan S5884-105 Contact: 800-281-6918; TTY 711

$50.60

$480.00

No



WellCare Classic S4802-083 Contact: 888-293-5151

$28.00

$480.00

No

1/2

Humana Premier Rx Plan S5884-157 Contact: 800-281-6918; TTY 711

$78.60

$480.00

No



$68.90

$0.00

No

1/2

Humana Walmart Value Rx Plan S5884-190 Contact: 800-281-6918; TTY 711

$22.70

$480.00

No

1/2

WellCare Medicare Rx Value Plus S4802-214 Contact: 888-293-5151 WellCare Value Script S4802-146 Contact: 888-293-5151

$12.00

$480.00

No

1/2

PLAN

PLAN

SSP Tampa Bay Times

| Wednesday, October 27, 2021 |

21

LIFETIMES

Medicare 2022

Medicare

COVID

Q&A

BY HANNAH CRITCHFIELD Times Staff Writer

Enrolling in the right Medicare program is one of the most important things Florida seniors can do to protect their health. But there’s something else they can do that’s even more important: Get vaccinated.

The COVID-19 pandemic remains a threat to the state’s elder citizens. Although 88 percent of Floridians 65 and up are vaccinated — that’s more than 4 million people — about 500,000 remain unvaccinated.

Thousands of seniors still are getting infected every week, and those 65 and older who get infected are far likelier to face hospitalization and death than are younger age groups, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Even though it’s 19 months into the pandemic, seniors still might have plenty of questions about staying safe: Should they get a booster shot? What about a flu shot? Is it safe to see the grandkids? Here are some answers.

Q: Some vaccinated people can get COVID-19. Should I still get vaccinated?

Absolutely, according to medical experts and a groundswell of research.

Some vaccinated individuals still can contract COVID-19, a phenomenon known as a “breakthrough infection.” These were expected, and have been from the start.

“The goal of the vaccine is not to prevent you from getting COVID,” said Dr. John Sinnott, chair of the University of South Florida Department of Internal Medicine

22

|

This special section is online at tampabay.com/medicare

and an infectious disease specialist at Tampa General Hospital.

“It’s to prevent you from getting severe COVID.” Breakthrough infections aren’t proof the vaccines are failing. In fact, all evidence points to the contrary.

Vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe illness — meaning hospitalization or death — from COVID-19. Florida is not releasing the number of breakthrough infections in the state, but overall just a few thousand out of more than 185 million people who have been vaccinated have died from a breakthrough infection in the U.S., according to CDC data.

The shots equip the body to fight the virus — which is particularly important for older adults, who are at greater risk of severe illness and death from an infection.

“Ninety-five percent of the COVID patients we admit are not vaccinated,” said Sinnott. “We have had 24-year-olds who are not vaccinated die of COVID. On the other hand, we have 80-year-old people who have been vaccinated walk out of the hospital recovered.”

Q: I’m vaccinated. Should I get a booster shot?

The evidence suggests that the answer, once again, is yes.

The Food and Drug Administration and the CDC now recommend people who are 65 or older, or over 50 with underlying medical conditions who got the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine should get a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot (respectively).

“People over 65 or who are immunosuppressed should absolutely get a booster,” Sinnott said. “You reduce your chance of breakthrough infection by tenfold, and you reduce your chance of death elevenfold. It is remarkable.”

Additionally, an FDA panel unanimously voted to authorize booster shots of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine after two months.

Emerging data shows vaccine protection may diminish over

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time, an event known as “waning immunity.” Vaccines trigger the body to produce antibodies, which are like specialized soldiers that respond to a specific invader in the body. The proteins are similar to SWAT teams, Sinnott said.

“When you get your first two shots, the immune system has plenty of SWAT teams ready to be deployed,” he said. “But when you don’t use the SWAT teams, people get reassigned. So your immunity declines by about 3 percent a month, maybe a little more in the elderly.”

Booster shots may increase the immune system’s response to a COVID-19 infection, according to early data from research conducted in Israel.

That the protection offered by vaccines can decline and level off over time — usually over the course of several months following vaccination — is a phenomenon that’s normal and expected.

It’s one reason why Americans are encouraged to get a flu shot each fall, rather than a single vaccine early on in life.

Q: Speaking of flu shots, should I get one?

Last year, pandemic precautions such as mask-wearing, social distancing and hand-washing helped tamp down on spread of the flu.

But those precautions are largely gone now. And historically, a mild flu season — like the one the U.S. experienced last year — is almost always followed by a bad one, according to Sinnott.

Getting a flu shot is important to prevent what’s called a “twindemic” — when two viruses spread through the community at the same time.

“Last year, we had a few patients who had both the flu and COVID,” Sinnott said. “It did not go well.

They either died or had an extended hospital stay.”

People who are 65 and older are at heightened risk for severe illness from both diseases — so doctors are strongly recommending older adults get their influenza shots this fall.

Many health care providers in

Tampa Bay are offering COVID-19 booster shots and flu shots during the same visit — making it easier to streamline the process of protecting your health.

Q: Should I keep wearing a mask? What about social distancing?

As long as cases remain high in the U.S., people of all ages should continue to wear masks when indoors with anyone outside their immediate household, including inside grocery stores or another family member’s home.

COVID-19 fatigue — including engaging in behaviors like wearing masks indoors and social distancing — is real. But this isn’t forever, experts say. The longterm payoff of more years with loved ones will be worth it.

“If we can just hold on a little bit longer, with that perspective in mind, looking back, this will just be a small part of our lives,” said Dr. Kathy Black, a professor at the University of South Florida School of Aging Studies who researches healthy aging. “We can all do something for a year or two.”

Remember, mask-wearing and hand-washing can protect seniors from both the COVID and flu viruses.

Q: Can I still see my unvaccinated grandkids? What about unvaccinated adults?

Health isn’t merely the absence of illness or infirmity, according to Black. It’s important to focus on your mental and social health, while still taking your physical well-being into account.

“Isolation is as big a predictor of mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day,” she said. “So it’s important for all of us to stay connected.”

Older adults should continue to mask up around unvaccinated family members or friends whenever they’re indoors, experts say. That includes children 11 and under, who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated.

Those who feel unsafe connecting in person can turn to social technologies like Zoom, FaceTime and Uniper to connect with loved

ones from afar.

Area aging agencies often offer help setting up these platforms — check the bottom of the article to find contact information for the agency in your county.

Q: I live in a long-term care facility — there are staff members, fellow residents or visiting family members who are unvaccinated. How can I stay safe?

Long-term care residents — whether vaccinated or unvaccinated — still should wear a mask at all times when they’re around others, Sinnott said. This includes staff members or roommates.

“I still wear a mask 12 hours a day,” said Sinnott, who is 73. “This a very dangerous virus, and we’re still in a pandemic. People should do their best to avoid it. I have a number of patients who never wore a mask and got sick.”

Residents can remove their masks when alone in their rooms, according to Sinnott.

It’s not forever, he reiterated — but it depends on enough people getting vaccinated.

“As you look at the ebb and flow of infectious disease, you’ll find that this is just an epidemic of the unvaccinated,” Sinnott said.

“We’re coming off the peak of the delta (surge), but I just have a suspicion that the delta will come back again. But we’re extremely fortunate in America that we have the vaccine.”

For more information

To get connected to your local area aging agency for help booking a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, flu shot appointment or questions about setting up social technology in your home, call: 1-800-96-ELDER Here are some other Tampa Bay agencies that can help seniors: • In Hillsborough: Call the Senior Connection Center at 813-740-3888 • In Pinellas and Pasco: Call the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas, Inc. at 727-570-9696

Peter Kolianos, 79

MY FAVORITE CAR Tarpon Springs

1965 Ford Mustang 8-Cylinder Hardtop

This 1965 Mustang, 8-cylinder Hardtop, was purchased by my sister in September 1965 in Tarpon Springs at the local Ford dealer. She allowed me to drive it with her in the car. The first time I drove it, we drove down to the Sponge Docks and out to Pleasure Pier (now Sunset Beach). What a beautiful ride! Once, my sister even allowed me to take the car on a date! Years later she gave me the car and my teenage daughters got to drive it to school. I always get a thumbs up when I take it for a drive.

This beautiful car has remained in our family now for 56 years.

The original paperwork reads

that the car, a bench seat with factory A/C cost $3,134.16. I’ve spent many times that amount in restoration over the years. Sweet memories, thanks to my sister!

CALL TO READERS Tell us your love story

What’s the story behind your favorite or first car? We’d like to share it. Please send: • Your name, city where you live and your age (with your date of birth).

• The year, make and model of the car, with a description of the car and why you love it.

• A high-resolution photo or a scanned image. (Must be of the actual car.)

• Send to: drive@tampabay.com and put My Favorite Car or My First Car in the subject line.

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LIFETIMES

4

Medicare 2022

ways to manage retirement health care costs

By KATE ASHFORD Nerd Wallet

Health care in retirement is a big-ticket item. Experts estimate that an average 65-year-old retired couple in 2021 would need about $300,000 in after-tax savings earmarked for health care costs in their post-work life, even with Medicare, according to Fidelity.

The totals are daunting, but you can take steps to keep costs as low as possible with the right planning, good insurance choices and a healthy understanding of your conditions and coverage. Try these strategies — now and in retirement — to help control your health care bills.

1. Take advantage of an HSA

A health savings account allows you to put away pretax money for medical expenses. You can invest the funds, and both the principal and earnings are tax-free if you use them for eligible medical costs, today or in the future. This creates a powerful savings tool.

To use an HSA, you must have a high-deductible health plan. If that kind of plan makes sense for you, experts recommend saving money to your HSA and leaving it untouched for as long as possible.

In 2021, you can save up to $3,600 pretax as a single person or up to $7,200 if you have family coverage.

“These accounts are the most tax-efficient plans available,” says Sallie Mullins Thompson, a certified public accountant and certified financial planner in New York City. “The main thing you need to do is contribute to it religiously whenever you can.”

2. Make a plan for longterm care

A person turning 65 today has about a 70 percent chance of needing long-term care at some point, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. One of the best ways to approach this issue is to plan for it: How long do

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This special section is online at tampabay.com/medicare

you intend to stay in your home?

Where will you go when you can’t live there anymore? Who will help you with financial and health care decisions?

“People don’t like talking about it because it’s uncomfortable thinking about getting old and people taking care of you,” says Carolyn McClanahan, a physician-turned-certified financial planner in Jacksonville. But planning can help you prepare for a change in circumstances.

This could mean buying a traditional long-term care insurance policy, which can cost thousands of dollars per year, according to the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance. Or you might consider a hybrid insurance product that combines permanent life insurance with a long-term care rider. (You can use the benefit to pass money down to your heirs or — if you need it — you can tap it for long-term care expenses.)

You could self-insure by setting money aside annually for longterm care expenses. The important thing is to consider your options while you’re in your 50s or early 60s, before products get too expensive.

3. Get the right Medicare plan

Choosing the best Medicare policy once you turn 65 means finding one that includes your preferred doctors and your regular medications, helping you avoid high out-of-network and out-of-pocket costs. You’ll also need to consider whether you want access to all doctors who accept Medicare — as with an Original Medicare plan — or whether you want a plan that comes with extra benefits but a more limited provider network, such as a Medicare Advantage plan.

One way to approach Medicare is to find an agent who can help you compare options. Find someone who is certified to sell as many carriers as possible, meaning they

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will be able to present the full array of choices in your area, says Matt Chancey, a certified financial planner in Tampa.

4. Ask questions

Be an active participant in your health care, no matter what life stage you’re in. When your medical provider orders tests, which can drive up your medical costs, make sure you understand why they’re being done.

“Say to them, ‘What do you hope to learn from this, and is doing this going to change the treatment?’”

McClanahan says. “It’s important to do that, because a lot of times, doctors order things rotely. It’s part of their protocol and they don’t stop and think, ‘Is it really needed in this case?’”

The same goes for prescriptions. Ask your doctor whether

there’s something less expensive you could take, or whether there are changes you could make that would help. “A lot of doctors won’t spend the time talking about lifestyle changes, so they throw pills at people,” McClanahan says. “You can avoid a lot of medications just by doing the right thing.”

This article was provided to The Associated Press by the personal finance website NerdWallet. Kate

Ashford is a writer at NerdWallet.

Email: kashford@nerdwallet.com.

Twitter: @kateashford

Related links: Fidelity: How to plan for rising health care costs https://www.fidelity.com/ viewpoints/personal-finance/ plan-for-rising-health-carecosts?utm_campaign=ct_ prod&utm_source=ap&utm_ medium=mpsyn

TV word search A C E S E D E T R O I T A T R

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SHINE: Serving

Health Insurance Needs of Elders

BY MEGAN REEVES Times Staff Writer

Medicare, with all its plans and parts, can be daunting for people in search of health insurance.

But there’s help available across Florida and Tampa Bay. SHINE, which stands for Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders, has more than 500 volunteers throughout the state who are ready to answer questions now that open enrollment is underway.

People 65 and older as well as those with disabilities have until Dec. 7 to make a choice.

Because of the coronavirus, SHINE’s in-person information sessions and consulting appointments have moved online and over the phone. The program has built a robust schedule of virtual events enrollees can access to learn about their options and ask questions about coverage, said Tampa-based SHINE manager Amy Hagel.

She spoke with the Tampa Bay Times about SHINE’s work, and shared specifics about how the state program plans to assist seniors.

When was SHINE created and what is its mission?

SHINE, a program within the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, has been helping seniors with Medicare enrollment since 1992. It is the only Medicaresponsored source of one-on-one counseling in the state and aims to help beneficiaries make informed choices to maximize their health care benefits.

Who are SHINE volunteers and where are they located?

There are 11 SHINE offices across Florida and together they serve all 67 counties in the state.

SHINE volunteers “come from all walks of life,” Hagel said. Most are retirees from all sorts of careers who “want to find a meaningful way they can really give back” to the community.

Their help is free and confiden-

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tial. The volunteers are not affiliated with any insurance provider, so the guidance they give is unbiased and only in the interest of beneficiaries, Hagel said. “The best advice people can get is from a SHINE counselor, because they do not gain anything but the satisfaction of assisting you.”

What services do SHINE counselors offer?

Volunteers will look at a beneficiary’s existing benefits and coverage and evaluate whether it is the best option for the coming year. They will go through the client’s medications to ensure their prescriptions will continue to be covered. If not, they will help them find another Medicare plan that does cover them.

Counselors also will check whether a beneficiary’s doctors will continue to take their insurance. And they can help people apply for assistance programs.

How do people get in touch with SHINE?

Medicare beneficiaries can reach SHINE by calling the state office at 1-800-963-5337 or emailing information@elderaffairs.org.

How do people find SHINE’s online sessions?

A complete schedule of SHINE’s virtual events is updated weekly at floridashine.org. There are various presentations on the basics of Medicare, specific parts of Medicare and more. Reservations are required for some of the events and contact information for each can be found on the schedule.

Please visit www.floridashine.org for more information or call: (800) 96-ELDER (800-963-5337) TDD/TTY 1-800-955-8770

Upcoming SHINE events Pinellas County 10/30/2021 10 a.m. Medicare Part D Drug Plans Dunedin Public Library 223 Douglas Ave. 34698

727 298-3080

11/2/2021 10 a.m. Medicare Part C Advantage Plans Hale Activity Senior Center 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin 34698 727-298-3299 11/9/2021 11 a.m. Medicare Part C and D St. Pete Beach Public Library 365 73rd Ave. 33706

727-363-9238

11/15/2021 4:30 p.m. Medicare Part D Drug Plans Countryside Public Library 2642 Sabal Springs Dr., Clearwater, FL 33761

727 562-4904

11/16/2021 2:30 p.m. Medicare Part D Drug Plans Aging Well Center in The Long Center 1501 N. Belcher Rd., Clearwater, FL 33765

727-724-3070

11/17/2021 3 p.m. Medicare 101 Largo Public Library 120 Central Park Dr. 33771 - Jenkins Room A

727-587-6715

12/15/2021 3 p.m. Medicare 101 Largo Public Library 120 Central Park Dr. 33771 - Jenkins Room A

727-587-6715

Hillsborough County 11/20/2021 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. OEP Enrollment Event Senior Connection Center 8928 Brittany Way, Tampa, FL 33619 **By Appointment Only** Please call 1-800-336-2226 to register 12/4/2021 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. OEP Enrollment Event Senior Connection Center 8928 Brittany Way, Tampa, FL 33619 **By Appointment Only** Please call 1-800-336-2226 to register

Pasco County 11/9/2021 10 a.m. Medicare Basics Regency Park Library 9701 Little Rd., New Port Richey, FL 34654

727-861-3049

11/11/2021 10 a.m. Medicare Basics Meals on Wheels Zephyrhills 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills

813-782-7859

11/13/2021 10 a.m. Medicare Basics Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center 12118 Lake Blanche Dr., Odessa, FL 33556

727-815-7126

11/16/2021 10 a.m. Medicare Basics Centennial Library 5740 Moog Rd., Holiday, 34690

727-834-3204

11/17/2021 1 p.m. Medicare Basics Hudson CARES 12417 Clock Tower Pkwy 34667

727-862-9291

11/18/2021 10:30 a.m. Medicare Basics New River Library 34043 FL- 54, Wesley Chapel 33543

352-567-3576

12/9/2021 10 a.m. Medicare Basics Meals on Wheels Zephyrhills 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills

813-782-7859 SSP Tampa Bay Times

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