Deductibles and co-pays
Traditional Medicare consists of Part A, which covers hospitalization, and Part B, which covers outpatient services and doctors’ fees. Part A is free for most retirees and spouses who paid FICA payroll taxes for at least 10 years. Part B has a standard monthly premium of $134 per month in 2018. But both Parts A and B have annual deductibles and co-payments.
Solution: Purchase a supplemental Medigap policy to fill the gaps or enroll in a less-expensive Medicare Advantage plan that usually offers additional benefits in exchange for using in-network medical facilities and providers.