Health Net implemented an across-the-board increase in California Medicare supplement insurance plan premiums July 1, 2009, causing many senior citizens to minimize expenses.

According to an insurance agent at www.MedicareSupplementPlans.com, many physicians are opting out of Medicare due to low reimbursement rates and too much paperwork.

As unemployment rises, many employed Americans indicate they could not afford their health insurance if they were laid off. Laid-off workers over age 65 can be especially hard hit.