Craig Bodner, Medicare Insurance Broker
Craig Bodner
Medicare Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, CT, FL, GA, MI, NJ, NM, PA, TN and TX
Contact Details
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Location
Chandler, AZ
About Me
Hey there, my name is Craig, and I am your local Medicare advisor and agent. I specialize in Medicare and am devoted to helping you find the best plan that matches your specific needs and financial situation. I will take care of the daunting task of comparing plans from well-known national and local companies for you. Even better, my services are completely free! Contact me today to explore your Medicare options, and be sure to mention that you found me on Medicare Agents Hub!
Q&A with Craig Bodner
What do you like most about being a Medicare agent?
Answer: Spending the time to fully understand my clients needs and going the extra mile to ensure that my clients get a plan that addresses their most important priorities. But equally and maybe more importantly, it is tremendously gratifying to be a key resource throughout the year if they are running into any difficulties getting the care they need as well saving money whenever possible.
Are Medicare Advantage plans really "free," or is that just clever marketing?
Answer: To call Medicare Advantage plans "free" is over simplifying. Many (but not all) Medicare Advantage plans have $0 monthly premiums so if premiums were the only important consideration, they could be considered "free". But there are many other factors to consider, such as deductibles, copays, drug coverage, etc. A Medicare Advantage plan can be an excellent value when paired well with clients priorities but its critical to look at all aspects of the plan such as whether all of your doctors are in network, all of your medications are covered by the plan, and many other considerations. As your Medicare Broker, it is my job to not only recommend a plan tailored to your needs but also to make your health coverage easier to understand.
I switched to a new Part D plan and now half my meds require prior authorization. Why didn't anyone warn me this could happen?
Answer: A good broker understands that it is critical to thoroughly review all aspects of medication coverage before enrolling a client in a plan. Clients should be aware of any prior authorization requirments, quantity limits, and "step therapy" requirements related to their drug coverage before enrollment, not after.
What's the trade-off between a Medicare Advantage PPO and HMO when it comes to flexibility?
Answer: The differences between PPO's and HMO's are considerable. Both have advantages and disadvantages:
Medicare Advantage PPO – More Flexibility
• See out-of-network providers: You can see doctors and specialists outside the plan’s network without a referral, though it will usually cost more than staying in-network.
• No need for referrals: You do not need a referral to see a specialist.
• Good for frequent travelers: More ideal if you travel often or split time between states/seasons, as you have coverage outside of your primary area (at higher cost).
• Higher premiums and/or out-of-pocket costs: You typically pay more for the added flexibility. It's also important to note that additional benefits such as dental are often richer with HMO's.
Medicare Advantage HMO – Less Flexibility, Lower Cost
• Must use network providers: You must get care from in-network doctors and facilities (except for emergencies or urgent care).
• Referrals required: You usually (but not always) need a referral from your primary care doctor to see a specialist.
• Lower premiums and copays: These plans generally cost less out of pocket, which can be a big draw for those who stay local.
• Often greater ancillary benefits such as dental, transportation, etc.
• Limited travel coverage: Not ideal if you travel a lot or live in multiple states seasonally.
In short, the important thing is to match your priorities with the plan. Please don't hesitate to call me at 480-773-7111 with any questions or need for assistance!