David Quintal, Medicare Insurance Broker
About Me
Hi! My name is David, and I am your dedicated Medicare consultant and agent. My focus is on Medicare, and I am committed to assisting you in finding the most suitable plan that aligns with your unique needs and budgetary constraints. I will tackle the challenge of sifting through plans from nationally and locally recognized companies, so you don't have to. 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!
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Q&A with David Quintal
I don't understand how my friend pays nothing for their plan and I pay over $200-are these plans just totally random by ZIP code?
Answer: Medicare plans are available based upon zip code but there are many types of plans available. Basically, there are three type of products that people can enroll in addition to Original Medicare. The three type of plans that are available are Medicare Supplement plans (also referred to as Medigap plans), Prescription Drug Plans, and Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans. Medicare Supplement plans do carry a premium whereas some Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans may not carry a premium. Most likely, you are enrolled in a Medicare Supplement and your friend is enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan. It is, however, quite possible to be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan that does carry a high premium. In order to best understand what coverage you have always reach out to a local broker for a quick review. Lastly, it is also possible to be enrolled in a zero premium Prescription Drug plan or a plan with a very high premium. Always check your cards and always reach out to a local broker for assistance.
I keep hearing about Medicare Part D changes for 2025. Will these actually lower what I pay for my prescriptions?
Answer: In 2025, Medicare Part D has several changes. The changes include a $2,000 annual out-of-pocket limit for prescription drug costs, the elimination of the coverage gap (aka "donut hole) and new options for spreading drug costs throughout the year.
I'm a green card holder who's been in the US for 4 years and turning 65 soon. Am I eligible for Medicare?
Answer: No, a green card holder would need 5 years residency in the USA to be eligible for Medicare.
This rule applies even if an individual is turning 65.
I'm confused by all the star ratings for Medicare plans. Do they actually mean anything for the care I'll receive?
Answer: Star ratings are used by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) to evaluate Medicare Advantage plans (part C) and Prescription Drug plans (part D). Star ratings range from one star to five stars. Star ratings assist individuals by allowing them to compare plans and choose the best one for their needs. The higher the star rating, in most cases, indicates better performance and may include additional benefits or programs.
How does the Part D "catastrophic coverage" phase work once I hit the out-of-pocket max?
Answer: Based on the 2025 changes, once an individual hits the out-of-pocket max they pay nothing for the rest of the calendar year. The out-of-pocket max is $2000 for 2025. Once you hit $2000 you enter the "catastrophic phase" and pay nothing more than $2000 for covered medications.
My diabetes medication is super expensive, and I've heard horror stories about Part D not covering what people need. Should I go standalone Part D or get it through a Medicare Advantage plan?
Answer: Whether an individual chooses a Part D plan or a MAPD, in each case a thorough review of the relative costs associated with each option should be done prior to enrolling into a plan. Sitting with a local and knowledgeable broker is one way to ensure that when a decision has to be made the Medicare beneficiary is aware of the plans premiums, deductibles, copays and formularies. All of these can impact prescription costs.
Are all types of blood tests covered by Medicare?
Answer: Generally speaking, yes Medicare covers all medically necessary blood tests ordered by your healthcare providers.
Covering these blood test allows your healthcare professional to track your health and even screen for disease prevention.
Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may cover more blood tests than original Medicare (Part a and Part B). Under original Medicare, there is no separate fee for blood tests.
How can I plan for Medicare costs if I expect to need long-term custodial care in a nursing home or assisted living facility?
Answer: Simply put, Medicare does not cover costs related to long-term custodial care or assisted living facility. There are options that one can do to prepare for these costs. Options like Medicaid, long term care insurance, or private funding are ways to cover these potential costs. Always speak to a local Medicare broker to assist you with these options.