For California Residents - GHPP and Medicare Questions

Hi everyone, My husband Gary and I are new to this forum, so thanks for having it! Does anyone have good answers about Medicare and GHPP? We're confused and need to make a decision very soon about whether or not to take parts B and D. After working all of his life, Gary finally went on disability last year. He has taken GHPP (Genetically Handicapped Persons Program) for years, which covers most everything--no copays or Rx costs--for an annual fee. Gary just received a Medicare notification. He automatically gets part A for hospitalization, as an individual on permanent disability. However, he needs to decide whether to accept or decline part B - doctors, labs - and part D - meds. There were be a fee of about $1200-$1500/year for it and it looks like the only benefits to getting it would be that he would be covered out of state (GHPP only covers in-state) and perhaps, a home health nurse when he does home IVs (GHPP doesn't cover this). So we're leaning towards declining. However, if you need it down the line for any reason, you get penalized by 10% per year that you declined! Have any of you crossed this bridge? So far we have not been able to nail down any clear answers from any of the people who are supposed to be available to help with these kinds of issues. Thank you in advance. Wishing you all the best. Lisa
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