Antonio Espino, Medicare Insurance Broker

About Me

Hi, I’m Antonio Espino, a licensed Medicare agent and proud Rio Grande Valley native based in Harlingen, TX. I’m passionate about helping seniors throughout the RGV make informed decisions about their Medicare options. Whether you’re new to Medicare or reviewing your current coverage, I’m here to provide clear, personalized guidance—at no cost to you.

I offer in-person appointments at any of my 3 office locations, home visits across the Valley, and phone appointments if you prefer. Hablo Español and I’m happy to assist you in either English or Spanish—whichever you’re most comfortable with.

Have questions about Medicare Advantage, Supplement Plans, Prescription Drug Coverage, Life Insurance, or Annuities? Call or text me at 956-455-1313. I’d be happy to help!

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Hola, soy Antonio Espino, un agente de seguros con licencia y orgulloso nativo del Valle del Río Grande, con sede en Harlingen, TX. Me apasiona ayudar a los adultos mayores en todo el RGV a tomar decisiones informadas sobre sus opciones de Medicare. Ya sea que esté por cumplir 65 años o quiera revisar su cobertura actual, estoy aquí para ofrecerle orientación clara y personalizada—sin ningún costo para usted.

Ofrezco citas en persona en cual quiera de mi tres oficinas, visitas a domicilio en todo el Valle, y también citas por teléfono. Hablo Ingles y estaré encantado de atenderle en el idioma que usted prefiere.

¿Tiene preguntas sobre Medicare Advantage, Planes Suplementarios, cobertura de medicamentos, seguros de vida o anualidades? Llamame o mande texto a 956-455-1313. ¡Estoy aquí para ayudarle!

📍 Office Location: 1212 E Harrison Ave #250, Harlingen, TX 78550

📍 Office Location: 222 US-77 STE. #195, Brownsville, TX 78521

📍 Office Location: 5401 N Cage Blvd, Pharr, TX 78577

📞 Phone: 956-455-1313

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Directions to My Office

Q&A with Antonio Espino

What do you like most about being a Medicare agent?

Answer: What I like most about being a Medicare agent is the opportunity to truly make a difference in people’s lives. Medicare can be confusing, and I love being the person who brings clarity and peace of mind. When someone tells me they finally feel confident in their coverage or that I helped them save money and stress, that’s the best reward. It’s about building relationships, not just policies. I’m here to serve, and that’s what keeps me passionate about this work every day.

What's the trade-off between a Medicare Advantage PPO and HMO when it comes to flexibility?

Answer: The main difference between a Medicare Advantage PPO and HMO is flexibility. An HMO plan usually has lower costs, but you must stay within the plan’s network and get referrals to see specialists. It’s a good choice if you’re comfortable using a specific group of doctors. On the other hand, a PPO plan gives you more freedom—you can see any doctor, even out-of-network, without needing a referral. However, that flexibility usually comes with higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

How do I budget for Medicare costs if I expect my health to decline in the next decade?

Answer: If you expect your health to decline over the next decade, it’s smart to plan ahead for higher medical expenses. Start by choosing a Medicare plan that offers good coverage for frequent doctor visits, specialists, and prescriptions. Consider a Medicare Advantage PPO if you want flexibility, or Medigap with Original Medicare if you prefer predictability and nationwide access.

Also, budget for the “hidden” costs like copays, coinsurance, dental, vision, and long-term care, which Medicare doesn’t usually cover. If you can, set aside a health savings cushion or look into plans that offer extra benefits, like an Advantage plan with a spending card or over-the-counter allowance.

Lastly, review your coverage every year during open enrollment. Your health needs will change, and so should your plan.

What's a common Medicare myth that even some agents still believe?

Answer: This question is going to get me in trouble LOL!

I believe some agents believe that no matter what other agents say...to get a Medicare Supplement is ALWAYS the best way to go.

I do not believe that. I believe it depends on the persons health, life style, and financial means. Also, how one frequents the doctors.

Even a Medicare Advantage with a giveback plan can be a great plan for some people.

I understand it's a hot take, but I truly stand by this.

What are the most overhyped benefits of Medicare Advantage plans that seniors should be wary of?

Answer: The giveback plans. They give money back, but at what cost? The health plan will have higher copays for everything. It's only good for people that rarely go to the doctors and would like to save money on their premiums in the early stages of them being on Medicare.

My Advantage plan says I need a referral just to see a dermatologist. I thought PPOs didn't require that - was I wrong?

Answer: You are correct. PPOs do not require referrals. But there are "office policies" that require one. The insurance company can't force the practice to not require one.

Do I need a Hospital Indemnity Plan if I have Medicare Advantage? What if I am hospitalized twice in the same year?

Answer: 1. Do you need a Hospital Indemnity Plan...No. You don't need it at all. But it would cover the gaps in your Medicare advantage plan. Hospital Indemnity will cover the hospital stays as well as outpatient services, and emergency room visits. You can add other coverages like a cancer policy as well.

But do you need it...no. Will it help...Yes.

2. If you have a hospital indemnity plan and you are hosiptalized twice, then the policy will pay you (however the way the policy was set up. I.E per day or lump sum). If you don't have a HI plan, then you just pay the Medicare advantage copays.