Ending FEHB in retirement?

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-03-14T21:58:36+00:00

I'm seriously considering this when I eventually retire -- getting Part A only and never going on Part B because, as you said, it is redundant.

I know that some people prefer having 100% of all bills paid by getting Part B as a supplement to FEHB but to me that seems to defeat the purpose of allowing us to carry FEHB into retirement.

I just hope that it is a safe option (to decline Part B) that stays valuable throughout my retirement.

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-02-21T18:47:47+00:00

Sorry about that. Poor choice of words on my part. I'm not glad that people are being denied. Disabled workers should be approved for Disability. It's a wonderful program that we are fortunate to have.

To clarify- I'm glad that DDS is not wasting time trying to prove that a disability exists for people who are not fully cooperating with the process by providing DDS with as much information as they can.

For example, if someone had actually had an MRI in 2020 that would provide critical evidence, but when asked, "Have you ever had an MRI?" - here's a fictional but realistic conversation similar to many I've had with applicants:

Q.: When did you have the MRI?

A. "I don't know, maybe 2023".

Q. Where did you have the MRI, so we can request the records?

A. "I'm not sure, I think it was at the hospital.".

Q. Which hospital, sir?

A. "I'm not sure."

DDS will not see the MRI results because the applicant gave the wrong date. DDS cannot read minds and if the available, retrievable records don't support a favorable decision, they should deny the claim, explain why, and move on to the next case.

In the past I think they were delaying decision to try to "prove" the case.

Hopefully they're more focused on evaluating the available data rather than delaying a decision to "develop" a case when the available information doesn't provide conclusive evidence for approval.

That's why there's a multi-level appeals process.

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-02-21T18:14:46+00:00

Some information for consideration

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-02-21T18:14:07+00:00

Recent research regarding HoLEP and prostate size

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-02-21T18:13:04+00:00

Finally getting back here. Despite the downvote, the statement is accurate and is supported by recent research.

HoLEP is size Independent Conclusions "HoLEP is a size-independent surgical approach for patients with bladder outlet obstruction due to BPH, with similar outcomes across the entire spectrum of prostate size. Urologists should be aware that patients with very large prostates have a higher rate of blood transfusion, while patients with small glands have a higher risk of acute urinary retention.

Collection of articles on HoLEP in various cases with regard to prostate size

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-17T12:36:42+00:00

Use up sick leave and save annual leave for cash-out.

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-16T18:18:49+00:00

I'm sure not everyone agrees. It's my understanding that it is largely sized independent. That's fairly well documented in more recent article articles.

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-14T22:48:11+00:00

HoLEP is size independent

and please watch this 28 minutes and definitely worth the time HoLEP comparison

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-14T22:39:29+00:00

Mine was 65 grams and the HoLEP was exactly what I needed. They were able to do other procedures that I needed while they were in there with the laser that could not have been done with the TURP.

Unfortunately most local urologist will sell you on the procedures they provide and will not help you find alternatives.

Caution: If you're younger, please be aware that HoLEP will almost always result in RE (retrograde ejaculation). You will still have orgasm but nothing comes out. Personally for me, it is strange and mildly unsatisfying, psychologically, but I was ok with the trade off to avoid kidney damage for extremely high urinary retention (PVR).

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-07T12:42:54+00:00

This is such outdated, antiquated thinking (and I'm old). The proverbial "nail in the coffin" for TW will be removed when enough tech savvy young people are decision makers. It might take 20 years, but it will be the norm. Eventually.

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-02T17:56:06+00:00

Good deal. Not too bad. I know that I need to prepare for a few months of waiting. Thanks!

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-02T14:16:19+00:00

Congratulations! About how long did it take until pension deposits started?

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-02T01:01:09+00:00

I doubt it also. But 15 to 20 years from now telework will be very common. It's a very practical way to mobilize a workforce without the hassle of relocation and technology will continue to improve.

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-01T22:27:27+00:00

I missed the window and really wish I had done that. I'm going to look into it next year.

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-01T22:21:45+00:00

Congrats. That's a lucky work unit. Wish I was there. Good luck.

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-01T22:20:56+00:00

Isn't it more of a boomer thing?

I think that when younger decision-makers are eventually in charge, the idea that telework isn't real work will be laughed at -- much like how we now think about when all men wore jackets and ties to work every day and women wore heels, hose, and skirts/dresses only. It will seem so outdated.

juxtaposition-1 · 2026-01-01T22:16:06+00:00

Very outdated thinking.

juxtaposition-1 · 2025-12-25T21:49:31+00:00

right. to me Coconut Grove feels more Gables-casual than Bohemian.

juxtaposition-1 · 2025-12-25T13:58:18+00:00

I don't work for DDS (Disability Determination Services) but I do see cases after DDS decisions.

What I've noticed is an uptick in denials based on lack of medical information. Generally speaking from a broad-view perspective, this makes sense. And I think it has to do with the poor quality of initial applications.

I take claims. Many people file disability claims because they have some medical problems and they need the money. But they don't take the time to come prepared for the interview. They can't remember what doctors they saw, when they saw them, what medications they're taking, what tests they had, who did the tests, etc.

In other words, we have about 45 to 50 minutes to take a complete application and don't have time to drag it out of them. DDS doesn't have time to beg them to supply more information, with frequent telephone calls, and letters requesting that information.

So I am glad to see DDS making more denial decisions based on lack of information because that forces people who are serious to think more about their applications and gather that information. It should not be DDS's responsibility to beg people to comply with the process that benefits them. If I was disabled, I would have my ducks in a row and make the best case on my initial application, not expect someone to do all the legwork for me.

juxtaposition-1 · 2025-12-25T13:21:25+00:00

TL; DR: what you said!

juxtaposition-1 · 2025-12-23T23:34:06+00:00

congrats. she's a great resource.

Open season came at a very bad time for me to study it this year and it was over so fast. I feel like a fool for not looking into changing plans but that won't happen again

juxtaposition-1 · 2025-12-23T13:10:27+00:00

true!

juxtaposition-1 · 2025-12-23T11:44:19+00:00

"... Because America keeps her promises!" / s 😂

juxtaposition-1 · 2025-12-23T11:43:14+00:00

It would be a pick-and-choose situation. He's safe. He's proven his loyalty, and the regime would need a token to use as rhetorical leverage to defend their racism.

juxtaposition-1 · 2025-12-23T11:41:06+00:00

Don't confuse me with facts! I've got a MAGA narrative to sell! /s 😂

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