Brendan Scarffe, Medicare Insurance Broker
Brendan Scarffe
BAC Associates
Medicare Broker Licensed in MO, AL, AR, AZ, CO, FL, GA, IA, KS, OK, TN, TX and UT
Contact Details
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Location
Lee's Summit, MO
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Phone
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Website
Brendan Can Help With:
About Me
Hi, I’m Brendan, a Medicare broker offering access to multiple companies and plan choices. I help educate clients on Medicare and guide them through the entire process to find coverage that fits their health needs and budget. I look forward to helping you.
Q&A with Brendan Scarffe
What is the biggest disadvantage of Medicare Advantage?
Answer: The biggest disadvantage of Medicare Advantage is hard to determine. There are pros and cons to every carrier and plan and every person has individual needs. Trying to find the right fit is why agents/brokers exist. We help you determine what is best for your situation. Finding a good broker that listens to your needs will be a tremendous help.
Is the cost of Medicare different for everyone?
Answer: The cost of Medicare does vary. Part B may vary depending on your income level from two years prior to the current year. It also may vary based on the Medigap (supplement) or Part C plan you choose. Additionally, prescription drug coverage also varies based on the drugs that are covered.
I use a continuous glucose monitor for my diabetes that connects to my smartphone. Will Medicare cover this technology for someone with my condition?
Answer: Yes, these are covered under your Medicare part B benefit, however, you may still be responsible for 20% of the cost, depending on the Medigap or Part C plan you choose. Additionally, you may need to get your doctor's approval.
I missed my Medigap window by a few months and now no one will cover me without underwriting. Why isn't this rule more well known?
Answer: Unfortunately, the book that Medicare sends is massive, daunting and muddled. Medicare tries to provide as much information as possible, but each person has a unique situation that doesn't fall into the cookie cutter examples. There are many rules and even penalties that no one knows about unless they have a trusted agent/broker helping them.
I am moving to a different county in my same state, should I look at getting a new Medicare plan?
Answer: Yes, you may need to enroll in a new plan anytime you move. Generally speaking, plans are county specific. It's best to have a trusted broker to help you through this process to know when and if you are required to get new Medicare plan.
What does Medicare Part B cover? Is it enough?
Answer: Medicare Part B covers your medical expenses outside of a hospital at 80% coverage. Simply having Part B is not enough because self-financing the other 20% could be catastrophic. (Imagine having to pay 20% of the cost of a cancer bill.) This is why we need additional coverage. Supplements (aka Medigap) or Part C plans help cover the 20% you are responsible for. There are many options and it can get overwhelming trying to comb through the differences. We are here to help educate you and help narrow your options based on your financial and health needs.
What are the reasons why I should work with a Medicare agent?
Answer: I actually recommend working with a Medicare BROKER. Agents are only licensed with one carrier. Brokers are licensed with multiple carriers. While agents have carrier expertise, brokers can help you navigate more carriers and plan options that fit your budget and health needs.