Brenda Trejos, Medicare Insurance Broker
About Me
Hi! My name is Brenda, and I am your dedicated Medicare Broker and Agent. My focus is on Medicare. I'm here to guide YOU through the Medicare maze in a consultative and easy going manner. I'm also fluent in Spanish and licensed throughout the USA.
Its my goal to help you find the best coverages for your personal needs and situation. What's more, my services are entirely free! Reach out to me today to explore your Medicare insurance options and be sure to mention that you discovered me on Medicare Agents Hub!
Directions to My Office
Q&A with Brenda Trejos
I'm turning 65 next month; what are the first steps I should take regarding Medicare enrollment?
Answer: The first step is to find a reputable Agent/Broker that can help you b/c of their experience and at no cost to you. They should make this confusing Medicare maze easier to understand and walk you through the steps.
Secondly, you need to apply for Medicare Parts A&B immediately as it is recommended to do so at least 3 months before your 65th Bday start date. With only 1 month of time, I highly recommend signing up online through the www.SSA.gov website and look for "Apply for Medicare" to fill out the application. You can hopefully have your Medicare # online within 3-4 weeks and continue the process with your Agent's help to complete your coverage with supplemental coverages that fit your individual needs.
Are Medicare Advantage plans really “free,” or is that just clever marketing?
Answer: Approximately 70% of Medicare Advantage Plans (MAPD) do not have a monthly premium, but all MAPD's do have costs associated with them when they are used for most medical services. These are known mostly as copays and can be quite reasonable, especially when you use In-Network services. Many MAPD's also come with additional extra benefits that are attractive to many consumers. Benefits such as Dental, Hearing, Vision, Gym coverage, etc. Its important to understand the pros & cons for MAPD's, as well as Medicare Supplements. There is not a "one size fits all" Plan out there and talking to an experienced Agent/Broker is a wise option. Plan ahead before starting Medicare and learn as much as you can.
Why is the new $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum for drug costs important?
Answer: It's important b/c its much lower than it has been in the past, which will especially save money for folks taking expensive medications. Having this $2000 Max out of pocket will allow folks to budget and plan their Drug costs as well as take advantage of the monthly prescription payment plan if needed. Ask your trusted Agent/Broker for additional information.
What additional coverage options are available for international travelers?
Answer: Depending on your additional coverage (i.e. your Advantage Plan or Medigap) on top of having Medicare, you might have coverage during your international travels. It is important to ask your Agent/Broker for details or calling your Insurance Company Customer Service #.
There is also an option to purchase additional coverage know as Travel Insurance or International Medical Insurance that could be good additional options and to cover scenarios not covered by your Medicare Plans.
What’s the best way for seniors to protect themselves from Medicare-related scams?
Answer: Unfortunately these scams are prevalent and getting worse! Its advisable to be very careful when a person or phone # calls you that you are not familiar with. Be cautious and NEVER give them any of your personal information. I recommend calling your Agent/Broker or calling the Insurance Company directly from the # that you have, not one they give you. Your Agent can help you and/or clarify information.
One BIG scam is commercials or calls offering more benefits than you qualify for because you are not receiving aid, but they do not care nor explain this.
What benefits are there to working with a Medicare Agent near me vs remote/virtual?
Answer: There are so many benefits to working with an Agent/Broker...
Firstly, these individuals are licensed and certified individuals that help others as their livelihood. This is their business and they are part of your communities.
Secondly, independent Agents don't charge you to help you as they are compensated (commission-based) through the several Insurance Companies they represent and its at no additional cost to you. As Broker's they represent many Companies so you have have comparisons and YOU choose which Company is best for you. We work for you, not the Insurance Companies.
Additionally you have a direct person to work with and not just an 800#. Your Agent is available year around and usually available in person, over the phone or virtually.