Category Archives: Uncategorized

COVID 19

As we all awaken each day to new news about COVID-19 and its impact upon our community, state, nation, and the world, we at Harwell & Plant have decided to take actions which we believe to be in conformity with the best interest of both our staff and our clients. Beginning immediately, we will temporarily suspend office hours to the public. We can still be reached at 931.762.7528 by phone, 931.762.7520 by fax, or by email at harwellplant@harwellplant.com.

We recognize that the needs of our clients continue in the face of the issues we all are now facing, and we want to be available to assist you in any way we can. My staff and I are prepared to assist you remotely, and to continue to provide the quality legal services you have come to expect from us. As conditions improve, and they will improve, we will make announcements as appropriate about reopening our office for personal visits. In the meantime, call us if we can help and in all matters, stay safe.

-Sincerely, Paul B. Plant, Esq. & Staff

How Medicare Handles Second Medical Opinions

Does Medicare cover second medical opinions? The doctor I currently see thinks I need back surgery, but I would like to find out more about other treatment options before I proceed. What can you tell me?

Medicare does pay for second opinions if your current doctor has recommended surgery or some other major diagnostic or therapeutic procedure. Getting a second medical opinion from another doctor is a smart idea. A second opinion may offer you a fresh perspective and additional options for treating your back condition so you can make a more informed decision. Or, if the second doctor agrees with your current doctor’s opinion, it can give you some reassurance moving forward.

If you are enrolled in original Medicare, 80% of the costs for second medical opinions are covered under Part B (you or your Medicare supplemental policy are responsible for the other 20%), and you do not need to obtain an order or referral from your doctor to see another doctor for a second opinion. Medicare will even pay 80% of the costs for a third medical opinion, if the first two differ. Most Medicare Advantage plans cover second opinions too, but you may need to follow certain steps to obtain coverage. For example, some plans will only help pay for a second opinion if you receive a referral from your primary care doctor. Plans also may require you to see doctors in their networks only. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll need to call to find your plan’s rules. Continue reading

The Benefits of Journaling about Your Life as a Senior

Writing down your life’s story can be helpful to both you and your loved ones. There are several benefits to keeping track of your life in written form. Don’t worry if you’re not a writer; you don’t have to write a book. Keeping track of your daily life by documenting notes, photos, movie stubs, and other pieces of life’s little moments is enough. Continue reading

3 Behavioral Problems that Come with Dementia and How to Manage Them

When caring for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s or dementia, behavior can be one of the most difficult parts of the daily journey. It’s important to understand that the disease changes your loved one’s brain, and because of these changes, communication problems can arise. Being aware of some of the more common behavioral problems that come with dementia can help you give your loved one the best possible care. Continue reading

3 Myths About Aging and the Truths Behind Them

There are many negative myths about seniors and aging that exist in our society today. While some myths hold some truth to them, there are others that are not based on facts at all and are simply derived from stereotypes about seniors that have developed over time. Below are a few of the more common myths and why they are untrue. Continue reading