Anthony Mendez, Medicare Insurance Broker
Anthony Mendez
Bilingual English & Español
Medicare Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, FL, IA, NE, NV and TX
Contact Details
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Serving
Guadalupe, AZ
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Phone
About Me
Hello and thank you, My name is Anthony. I have over 20 years of experience as a local Licensed financial professional. It seems as every Thanksgiving I have the same Medicare conversation with my parents and I am happy to extend the same courtesy to you. I specialize in various types of Medicare coverage. Quite honestly, Medicare can be confusing, and many people feel overwhelmed. I'll make Medicare coverage very simple and easy to grasp. There is no cost or fee for my services. I'm happy to assist you make an excellent choice for your unique situation and find what is most important to you. Thank you again! I look forward to connecting.
Q&A with Anthony Mendez
How can you create a comfortable environment for discussing Medicare with your parents?
Answer: First, start with a quiet environment that limits distractions. Speaking from experience with my own parents and other seniors alike, speaking slowly, loudly, and clearly creates a comfortable understanding of what is being discussed. Also, an environment where they can be heard and understood clearly is comforting.
Can I drop my employer health insurance and switch to Medicare instead?
Answer: Yes, you certainly can. You will NOT be assessed a late penalty because your employer coverage is considered "creditable group coverage". You will want to make Social Security Administration aware of that if you apply for Medicare. If your employer coverage is more cost effective and comprehensive, you are not required to enroll in Medicare part B.
Does Medicare cover shoulder replacement surgery?
Answer: Yes, Medicare does cover shoulder replacement surgery. With Original Medicare, patients average between $934 at an ambulatory surgical center to $1,677 at an outpatient hospital in out of pocket costs. A Medicare Supplement/Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan can reduce those out of pocket costs.
Can my employer force me to take Medicare when I turn 65?
Answer: If you work at a larger company (20 employees or more) you can delay enrollment in Medicare part B without penalty when you become eligible. Smaller companies with normally less than 20 employees, Medicare becomes the primary insurance. That means enrollment in Original Medicare is necessary to have health insurance coverage. Your employer cant "force" you to do anything, but if you work for a small company, its wise to sign up for Original Medicare.
Are Medicare Supplement plans worth the cost?
Answer: The true value of a Medicare Supplement plan, regardless of the carrier someone may elect to have their plan with, is the freedom to be treated anywhere in the United States that accepts Medicare. Someone would never have to deal with a service being "out of network". As long as the Dr. or Facility accepts Medicare, then they will accept the Medicare Supplement. It will fill in the 20% gap after Medicare pays 80% and that is why they are also called Medigaps. Many people value that freedom more than others.
Although there are many zero premium Medicare Advantage plans, they will be a little more restrictive on Dr's and Specialists that can be seen and will usually have copays associated with the different services the plan covers. Great question!
Can my daughter work with a Medicare agent or broker on my behalf?
Answer: Absolutely, it is often encouraged to have a son or daughter present or someone that may help on behalf of the Medicare beneficiary to better understand any benefits and have some knowledge on how the plans work.
Do IRA or 401(k) withdrawals increase Medicare costs?
Answer: Yes, a withdrawal from a 401k or IRA is considered taxable income in the year it is received and may increase the Medicare part B and part D premiums. However, premiums for Medicare coverages such as Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage plans will not increase as a result of the withdrawal.
What do you like most about being a Medicare agent?
Answer: As a son of two elderly parents I'm still blessed to have around, I'm passionate about providing the same level of care and service that I hope they would receive if I was not in this business. It is very gratifying when I see someone truly understand the way certain benefits will help them and feel their sense of empowerment going forward.
I picked a Medicare Advantage plan last year, and I'm not sure if my hearing aids are covered. How do I figure this out?
Answer: Most Medicare Advantage plans have some level of coverage for hearing aids. Some may have more comprehensive benefits than others. I'm always happy to help someone locate their current summary of benefits to be sure.
What are the reasons why I should work with a Medicare agent?
Answer: Working with an agent or a broker will help simplify the Medicare coverage application process. As licensed professionals, agents are held to a higher standard. It is great to have an advocate on your side to explain the options that may work best. A licensed agent is also required to go thru extensive annual training for any and all carriers they represent.