Explores the state of Medicare+Choice in six communities as of December 2000, noting that choice has declined in all, and accurate information about alternatives is not widely available. Beneficiaries are confused about their choices and worried about the commitment of plans and doctors to...

Provides one of the first looks at what happened to people whose plans left the Medicare+Choice program in January 2000. Reports on their knowledge of alternative options, ability to maintain coverage either through fee-for-service plans or another HMO, and describes the characteristics of those...

Presents highlights from an analysis of Medicare+Choice premiums and benefits in 2002, noting downward trend in benefit generosity and increased cost sharing for beneficiaries. Printed copies available by calling 888-777-2744 and requesting publication #533.

Highlights how beneficiaries are dealing with Medicare and Medicare+Choice and describes demographic characteristics, supplemental coverage, relevance of choice, and information sources beneficiaries use to support choice. Notes that in 2000, 17 percent had no source of supplemental coverage and...

Notes that health plans leaving the market in 2001 were more likely to have had lower enrollments, higher premiums, and less generous benefits than those that remained, indicating possible competition problems.

Reports that insurance coverage is heavily influenced by the big three automakers and their suppliers. Half of all Medicare beneficiaries got supplemental insurance through an employer, which is substantially higher than the comparable figure nationwide, although 13 percent have no supplemental...

Highlights key findings from recent journal articles and reports that contribute to a better understanding of the program in the following areas: 1) why plans withdraw and the effect on beneficiaries, 2) supplemental coverage trends, 3) beneficiary education, 4) plan selection and risk...

Although Medicare beneficiaries in Orange County are more affluent than in the nation overall, this profile notes substantial diversity within the county as well as pockets of particularly vulnerable beneficiaries. For example, 12 percent have incomes of $10,000 or less per year, 30 percent have...