What acceptable alternatives to Kaiser are available in So. Cal?

[diva77]

hoping for some useful info!!!

[Alsteen]

1. None

There is no better choice than So Cal Kaiser Permanente for healthcare in SoCal. The ease of everything in one place and a well trained staff takes most of the pain out of getting sick. It may cost a bit more but you get what you pay for. Went to the UCLA Alum class for Medicare and they really didn't say much about Kaiser and when asked why the speaker basically said that Kaiser was so much easier to navigate that she really didn't need to elaborate on all of the pitfalls like Blue Cross etc and you could just get treated.

[diva77]

2. Thanks - I appreciate your input.

[diva77]

3. meant to ask what pitfalls of the alternatives were mentioned at your class

[BootinUp]

4. Thanks. Nt

[Auggie]

5. Do you have the choice of Western Health Advantage?

[diva77]

6. not familiar with it

[Auggie]

8. It's available in Northern California

It's an HMO, but unlike Kaiser, has have a network of participating doctors -- well, actually nurse practioners, that refer you to real doctors.

[BigmanPigman]

7. Yes...

Healthnet, United, Blue Shield and Kaiser. I have had all of them through my employer or through the ACA.

Due to insur changes, prices, limitations, and requirements they are very different and some choices are not so great. You have to do your homework. I have spent months and months on mine over the years.

I have heard the same stuff about Kaiser for 25 years...you either love them or hate them. Since they have only two pharmacies and three hospitals withing 45 min drive of my home I do not like them. When I am sick I do not want to drive to a pharmacy then sit in an overcrowded waiting room for one hour. It is very inconvenient, especially if someone else has to drive you.

[TeamPooka]

9. I have Kaiser and love them. They are growing in LA and Ventura Counties

[Juneboarder]

10. Mexico...

I just went for a doctor visit over this past weekend and my visit, without insurance, was only $12. Pills were $30. If I use my insurance here in San Diego, my doctor visit runs $230 but then meds are $15. Go figure...

[diva77]

11. Interesting. Definitely worth researching. Thanks.

[Juneboarder]

12. No problem at all!

I've always gone through Farmacia Roma down there, and they have a doctor on site that you can visit. You can also research doctors down there as well, if you'd prefer to select based on what you're looking for specifically.