Question:
I just got my medicare card in the mail, But it is not effective until Aug.2004,

I just want to know what steps should I take now I've done my research on the surgery. I have made my decision to go ahead with the surgey with the support of my family, who is behind me 100%. What's next is there anything I can do until then Aug is three mths away..    — Tasha J. (posted on April 26, 2004)

April 25, 2004
I don't where you are from but I would start looking for a surgeon. Find out how much the co-pays are going to be to the hospital and Dr so you can start saving. When you find the surgeon get the paper work done and ready and just tell them you want the first appointment in August for your consult. Three months will go by so fast....Nancy
   — nefish

April 26, 2004
What you need to do is make sure you call around and find a surgeon that takes medicare ASSIGNMENT. Don't just ask if they take medicare cause then they pay 80% and you pay 20%. Ask if they take assignment. This means your hospital co-pay will be 880. and your surgeon co-pay will be about 400. My best friend had medicare only and this is what she paid. The surgeon and hospital did not require it up front but that depends on the surgeon and hospital you use. Some will want the co-pays up front. It is the same all over because medicare is a federal program. I also have medicare but as secondary. I still owed 3,000 on my surgeon bill after my primary insurance paid but because my surgeon takes ASSIGNMENT, I only had to pay 225. Good luck. Remember the key word is ASSIGNMENT.
   — Delores S.

April 26, 2004
I had my surgery a year ago and didnt have any copay with Medicare. Find a surgeon that will take medicare but then you have to wait until your Medicare is active before you go see them for they wont cover your visit until your time begins. You dont need pre approval with Medicare the doctors just have to deem it medically needed. Medicare even paid for my tummy tuck and breast lift I just had. Good luck with your new adventure in life.
   — Holly B.