Brandi Griffin, Medicare Insurance Broker
About Me
I am a licensed Medicare insurance agent dedicated to helping individuals confidently navigate their Medicare options. My mission is to simplify the enrollment process by providing personalized guidance, clear education, and honest recommendations based on each client's unique healthcare needs and budget.
Licensed in 23 states, I am committed to delivering exceptional customer service before, during, and after enrollment. I believe every client deserves an agent who listens, answers questions with patience, and serves as a trusted resource throughout their Medicare journey.
Whether you're new to Medicare, turning 65, retiring, or reviewing your current coverage, I'm here to help you make informed decisions with confidence and peace of mind.
Q&A with Brandi Griffin
I signed up for part A. I'm still on my husband's insurance so I didn't sign up for part B. is there a form I need to fill out stating I'm still on my husbands insurance?
Answer: In most cases, no. If you're delaying Medicare Part B because you're covered under your spouse's current employer group health plan, you generally do not need to submit a form to Medicare at the time you decline Part B.
Isn't it suspicious that Medicare Advantage plans offer gift cards and incentives to enroll?
Answer: Some Medicare Advantage plans offer supplemental benefits or rewards programs, such as gift cards for completing eligible preventive health activities like annual wellness visits, health assessments, or certain screenings. These programs are designed to encourage members to take advantage of preventive care and maintain their health.
How do you educate clients who are completely new to Medicare?
Answer: I believe Medicare education should be simple, personalized, and pressure-free. My goal is to help clients understand their options so they can make informed decisions with confidence.
When working with someone new to Medicare, I typically:
Start with the basics. I explain the differences between Medicare Parts A, B, C (Medicare Advantage), and D in easy-to-understand language.
Review their individual needs. We discuss their doctors, prescriptions, travel habits, budget, and healthcare priorities.
Explain their coverage options. I walk through the differences between Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, including the pros and considerations of each.
Discuss important enrollment timelines. Understanding when to enroll can help avoid late enrollment penalties and gaps in coverage.
Answer every question. I encourage clients to ask questions and make sure they feel comfortable before making any decisions.
Provide ongoing support. My relationship doesn't end after enrollment. I'm here to help if questions come up or their healthcare needs change.
I know Medicare can feel overwhelming at first, but it doesn't have to be. My priority is to educate, not pressure, so every client feels informed, confident, and supported throughout the process.
What's the best way to avoid surprise bills for lab tests under Medicare Advantage?
Answer: The best way to avoid unexpected costs is to verify your coverage before having lab work done.
Use in-network labs whenever possible. Most Medicare Advantage plans have a network of preferred providers, and using an out-of-network lab may result in higher costs or no coverage.
Confirm the lab is in your plan's network. Even if your doctor is in-network, the lab they use may not be.
Check if prior authorization is required. Some plans require approval for certain tests before they're covered.
Review your plan's copays and coinsurance. Knowing your out-of-pocket costs ahead of time can help you avoid surprises.
Ask questions before your appointment. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor's office which lab they'll use and whether it's covered by your plan.
Contact your Medicare Advantage plan if you're unsure. A quick call can help confirm your coverage and estimated costs.
If I have both Medicare and employer health insurance, which one pays first?
Answer: The answer depends mainly on the size of your employer and your specific situation.
If you work for an employer with 20 or more employees: Your employer's group health plan typically pays first, and Medicare pays second.
If you work for an employer with fewer than 20 employees: Medicare is generally the primary payer, and your employer's plan pays second.
If you're covered under a spouse's employer plan: The same general rules often apply based on the size of your spouse's employer.
If you have retiree health coverage: Medicare usually pays first, and the retiree plan pays second.
Because every situation is unique, factors such as disability, COBRA coverage, or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) can change which plan pays first.
How is Medicare funded?
Answer: Medicare is funded through a combination of payroll taxes, premiums paid by beneficiaries, and money from the federal government.
What are the reasons why I should work with a Medicare agent?
Answer: Working with a licensed Medicare agent can make choosing a Medicare plan much less overwhelming. Medicare has many parts, plan options, enrollment periods, and rules that can be confusing, especially if you're enrolling for the first time.