Christina Stanley, Medicare Insurance Broker

Answer: That's a great question.

Approximately 10% of Medicare Advantage enrollees were affected by plan terminations or carrier withdrawals this past year. The primary reason was that some insurance companies were losing money in certain markets and determined they could no longer offer those plans sustainably. Other carriers chose to reduce benefits, adjust service areas, or restructure their plans in order to remain in the Medicare Advantage market.

As a result, an estimated 2.9 million Medicare beneficiaries had to make a coverage change. Those affected generally had two options: enroll in a different Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare and, if eligible, enroll in a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan and a prescription drug plan.

This situation highlights the importance of reviewing your coverage each year. Medicare Advantage plans can change annually, including premiums, copays, provider networks, prescription drug coverage, and extra benefits. What worked well last year may not be the best fit this year.

Answer: Agents and brokers are paid by commission.

Agents and brokers usually represent multiple insurance companies. If we place you with a carrier we represent and are Agent of Record, we receive co.

Answer: Silver Sneakers is not a Medicare benefit.

It is offered as a benefit by many Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage Plans

Answer: No you do not.

However, if you are discussing standalone PDP plans, to go along with the Medicare Supplement, you will.

Answer: During your Initial Enrollment Period, the Annual Enrollment Period or during a Special Election Period.

Keep in mind, that most standalone Part D plans are not sold by agents. Most agents assist with enrolment but are not Agent of Record on your plan.

Answer: That depends on your plan.

If you have a Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug plan you have 63 days. If you have a Medicare Supplement, there is no need to make a change because the plan has no network or regional limitations.

Answer: You can switch to Medicare Advantage during the Annual Election Period that runs October 15th to December 7th with policies going into effect January 1st of 2027.

Before switching, make sure you receive a complete side by side analysis of your current Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage. Low or no premiums doesn't always equal an overall annual savings.

Answer: I believe the core issue isn't the sheer number of individuals on Medicare, but rather the escalating costs of medical care and prescriptions. It seems as though medical treatment has supplanted self-care, being approached like a service from Amazon. Instead of waiting to see if an issue resolves itself or considering alternative options, people are often led to think that every ailment can be addressed with a pill, prompting them to contact their doctor immediately to avoid missing out.

When I initially began my journey as a Medicare Agent, most of my clients—typically in their 70s and 80s—were on very few medications and seldom sought medical assistance. Fast forward twenty years, and now even my clients at 65 seldom have fewer than two prescriptions. Many frequently depend on medical solutions for various concerns, including weight loss, stress management, and emotional well-being.

I firmly believe we should shift our focus towards preventive measures that do not rely on medical intervention. People must ask themselves: Will this treatment or pill cure my condition, or will it merely address the symptoms?

Answer: Ambulance coverage can depend on your plan—and whether the transport is considered medically necessary.

Medicare Advantage Plans:

Most plans include ambulance coverage, but you’ll typically have a co-pay for each ride.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap):

Ambulance services are generally covered when medically necessary.

However, keep in mind:

Medicare Part B has an annual deductible ($283 in 2026)

If you haven’t met that deductible, you could receive a bill of around $283

Bottom line:

Even with great coverage, ambulance services aren’t always “free”—it depends on your plan and where you are with your deductible.

Answer: A straightforward search on the Medicare website can quickly reveal what is covered by Medicare and, more importantly, provide you with plan options for that coverage. It is also essential to verify with the specific plan to ensure that your prescription is included.

Alternatively, you can reach out to an agent for assistance with the process.

Answer: Partnering with a Medicare agent can make navigating the often overwhelming process much simpler. With the abundance of information available from online searches, advertisements, and advice from friends and family, it can be challenging to determine what and whom to trust. An agent can help you sift through the clutter and select a plan tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you have the coverage that suits you best.