This question if for US expats that are over 65 and that don't get their medical insurance through the military. I'm curious how you manage your Medicare. Did you decide not to file when you turned 65 and will pay the penalty if you move back to the US and need it. Did you go with Medicare Advantage? What strategy did you employ to minimize costs but that provides the best way to manage Medicare while you are in the Philippines and can't make use of it.
I got a card from US Medicare when I claimed Social Security. Along with it some sort of letter saying it was not valid outside the US. It is filed away somewhere. But I had worse news....there is a social security agreement between Australia and the US....They both are aware of the others payment and adjust accordingly. Been in Australia since 1982.....except for a few short Middle East contracts....and an Australian citizen since 1995...but that cost me 50% of my social security entitlement from the US.....and directly knocked a bit off my Australian aged pension as well since they communicate so well with each other...LOL....The only thing I can say is Australian Medicare leaves the US Medicare for dead. Everything is free (hospital, doctor appointments) - or ridiculously cheap. My meds are $4 USD a prescription - no matter what they are. Some of them cost hundreds each in the US. Never mind. Australian Medicare is useless in most countries overseas as well. Some exceptions...UK, New Zealand, a few others in Europe with reciprocal agreements. I'm sure the US could negotiate similar agreements....if the medical industry ever allowed politicians to think what is best for Americans.
Certainly it's cheaper in most cases due to reduced medical costs in other countries, so its seems like a deal for Medicare. Might even encourage people to take a trip in conjunction with a procedure. I suspect the medical lobby is the issue, just like Medicare can't negotiate drug prices due to the pharmaceutical lobby. They make everyone participate or pay a penalty if you sign up late. I have no problem paying, but I ought to be able to benefit regardless of where I live. Fricken politicians.
