Well, 'Ol Del and I do mean "ol" is a Blue Cross "victim"

Man, you need to talk to a professional about your health care options. Not somebody connected with one of those blood sucking insurance companies, but an independent advisor to help you figure it all out. I don't think paying for medicare is optional at your age and I would bet that you need to look at a good medicare advantage plan. I just spent the last 3-4 months figuring this out since I am turning 65 and it isn't easy. But I'm saving about $1000 a month as compared to the coverage that I had through my wife's employer. My Medicare advantage plan is run by Blue Cross/Blue Shield...