Brian Krantz, Medicare Insurance Broker
Brian Krantz
Plan Medicare
Medicare Broker Licensed in NY, AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV and WY
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Oklahoma
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About Me
Brian Krantz is a top-rated Medicare consultant with nearly five decades of family experience in the insurance industry. As the founder of Plan Medicare, he simplifies the Medicare process, ensuring seniors nationwide receive the best coverage for their needs. Licensed in all 50 states, Brian is recognized as a leading agent for UnitedHealthcare supplement plans.
His client-first approach offers personalized consultations in Manhattan, Long Island, and virtually. With licenses from over 25 carriers, he meticulously compares plans to ensure in-network doctors and full prescription coverage. His dedication goes beyond enrollment, regularly checking in to keep clients on the best plan.
Brian's leadership has made Plan Medicare a trusted name, even launching Long Island’s first physical Medicare location. Ranked among the top 5 Medicare Supplement agents nationwide, he also advises financial professionals on Medicare planning.
For expert Medicare guidance, call 516-900-7877, email [email protected], or visit www.planmedicare.com. I look forward to working with you!
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Q&A with Brian Krantz
What is the biggest mistake seniors make when enrolling in Medicare?
Answer: The biggest mistake I see seniors make when enrolling in Medicare is listening to friends or going directly to the insurance companies. Everyone’s situation is different — what worked for your neighbor or coworker might not be right for you. Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all, and making decisions without personalized guidance can lead to unexpected costs or gaps in coverage.
How do you educate clients who are completely new to Medicare?
Answer: I start by explaining Medicare Parts A and B — what they cover and what they don’t. Then I walk them through their two main options: either add a Supplement and Part D, or go with a Medicare Advantage plan. I also make sure they understand how state rules can impact their choices. Every situation is different, so I keep it clear and personal.
What is the biggest disadvantage of Medicare Advantage?
Answer: Networks. You're limited to doctors and hospitals in the plan’s network, which can be a problem if you travel or need care out of state. Also, in states with medical underwriting, if your health changes later, you might not be able to switch to a Supplement plan down the line.
How do Social Security and Medicare work together for people with disabilities?
Answer: If you’re under 65 and on Social Security Disability, you’ll automatically get Medicare after 24 months. Same Parts A and B — just earlier because of your disability.
If I need long-term care in the future, how does Medicare fit into that plan, and what should I be doing now to prepare?
Answer: Medicare doesn’t cover most long-term care, like assisted living or help with daily activities. It only covers short-term rehab after a hospital stay. If you're thinking ahead, it's smart to look into long-term care insurance or talk with a financial planner.
What’s the most misleading Medicare Advantage ad you’ve seen, and how do you explain the reality to clients?
Answer: The ones that advertise free dental, OTC cards, and tons of extra benefits — but don’t mention those are usually for people on Medicaid. Most folks don’t qualify for those extras, so it’s very misleading. I always explain what you actually qualify for, not what’s in the fine print.
Would expanding Medicare to younger Americans improve or hurt the program?
Answer: It could be great in theory, but there’s a risk. If younger people with health issues join the Medicare Supplement pool, it could drive up premiums for everyone. It all depends on how it’s structured and who’s allowed in.
Why is the new $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum for drug costs important?
Answer: It’s a game changer for people on expensive medications. Instead of spending thousands every year, you’ll now have a hard cap at $2,000 — which brings real relief and predictability.
I’m retiring next year—do I need to do anything with my Medicare?
Answer: Yes — you’ll need to enroll to avoid late penalties. The timing matters, so let’s talk ahead of your retirement to make sure everything’s set up right.
Will I be penalized if I do not enroll in Medicare when I turn 65?
Answer: Maybe. It depends if you’re still working and your employer has 20 or more employees. If not, you could face late penalties — so it’s important to review your situation before delaying.
What’s the trade-off between a Medicare Advantage PPO and HMO when it comes to flexibility?
Answer: PPOs let you see out-of-network doctors, but at a higher cost. HMOs usually don’t. Either way, it’s important to make sure your doctors are in-network — that’s where the real savings are.
Why do some seniors end up paying lifelong penalties for Medicare Part B or Part D?
Answer: Because they either think they don’t need it or they miss the deadlines. If you don’t sign up when you’re supposed to, you can get stuck with a penalty that lasts for life.
If a senior is turning 65 but still working, should they enroll in Medicare or delay it?
Answer: It depends on the size of the employer. If there are 20 or more employees, they can usually delay Part B without a penalty. But it's always smart to double-check the details.
What are some ways to ensure your parents feel supported during the Medicare decision-making process?
Answer: Sit with them, listen to their concerns, and don’t assume what’s best without understanding their needs. Bring in a Medicare expert to explain the options clearly — it takes the pressure off you and helps them feel confident they’re making the right choice.
How will the new 2025 Medicare Part D out-of-pocket cap impact seniors and prescription drug costs?
Answer: It’ll save seniors money — plain and simple. Once you hit $2,000 out-of-pocket, you won’t pay anything more for your prescriptions that year. It brings real relief for anyone on costly meds.
Which Medicare Supplement plan (Medigap) offers the best value for most seniors, and why?
Answer: Usually Plan G or High Deductible G — they offer great coverage and predictable costs. But it really depends on your state and how pricing works there, so it's not one-size-fits-all.
Is Medicare Part A enough for hospital coverage?
Answer: No, Part A by itself isn’t enough. It has deductibles and coverage limits. You still need Part B and either a Supplement or Advantage plan to make sure you’re fully protected.
Do I have to answer health questions when switching from one Supplemental/Medigap plan to another?
Answer: Yes — in most states, you’ll have to answer health questions unless you’re in a special guaranteed issue window. It depends on your state’s rules.
What’s an underrated benefit of Original Medicare that many people overlook?
Answer: Freedom to see any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare — no networks, no referrals. That kind of flexibility is easy to take for granted until you really need it.
Why do some clients ignore your advice and end up in bad Medicare plans—what makes them resistant?
Answer: A lot of people just listen to friends or colleagues instead of getting advice based on their situation. What worked for someone else might not work for them — and they often learn that the hard way.
Can I switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Supplemental/Medigap plan during the Annual Enrollment Period without answering health questions?
Answer: It depends on your state. In most states, you’ll have to answer health questions to switch to a Medigap plan — AEP doesn’t guarantee acceptance. Always check your state’s rules first.
In what situations will Medicare pay for medical services in a foreign hospital?
Answer: Medicare usually doesn’t cover care outside the U.S., but there are a few exceptions — like if you’re in the U.S. and a foreign hospital is closer, or you’re traveling between Alaska and another state through Canada. Otherwise, you’ll need separate travel coverage.
Are there any tax benefits tied to paying Medicare premiums as a retiree?
Answer: Possibly. Medicare premiums can sometimes be deducted as a medical expense if you itemize — but it depends on your overall situation. Best to run it by a CPA to see what applies to you.
If I move to a rural area, how might that limit my Medicare Advantage plan options?
Answer: In rural areas, there are usually fewer Medicare Advantage plans, and the networks can be really limited. That means fewer doctors and hospitals to choose from — so it’s important to check what’s available before you move.
Can I change my Supplemental/Medigap plan at any time?
Answer: Technically yes, but it depends on your state’s rules. In most states, you can apply anytime — but you may have to answer health questions and could be denied. Some states have more flexible rules, so it’s worth checking.
Does Medicare cover eye exams, or are seniors left paying too much?
Answer: Medicare doesn’t cover routine eye exams for glasses or contacts. It only covers eye care related to medical issues like glaucoma or cataracts. So yes, many seniors end up paying out of pocket for vision care unless they have extra coverage.
What role do you think technology will play in the future of Medicare?
Answer: Technology might make comparing plans and enrolling easier, but at the end of the day, Medicare is a service business. People still need a human to guide them — especially when their health and finances are on the line.
Do Medicare Advantage plans really save seniors money in the long run? Why or why not?
Answer: They can save you money short term — and long term if you stay healthy. But it’s a gamble. If you get sick, out-of-pocket costs and network limits can add up fast.
What’s a common Medicare myth that even some agents still believe?
Answer: That Medicare Advantage plans are always the best option. A lot of agents push them because they’re paid more to sell them — but that doesn’t mean they’re the right fit for everyone.
What does Medicare Part B cover? Is it enough?
Answer: Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, lab work, preventive services, and some medical equipment. But it only covers 80% — no cap on out-of-pocket costs — so no, it’s not enough on its own. You’ll need a Supplement or Advantage plan to fill the gaps.