Dean Chiapetto, Medicare Insurance Broker

Answer: You can go online to your states department of insurance website and see how long they have been in business. You may also want to get recommendations from family and friends who have a trusted advisor.

Brokers Make A Difference!

Answer: You need to speak with your local broker to help you apply for extra help. Medicare provides help to those with low income and low assets.

Brokers Make A Difference!

Answer: Well you can't just go to the orthopedic and ask for a knee replacement. Your PCP will need to start the process and refer you to a surgeon. This is common no matter what type of insurance you have, also it is standard business practice for the doctors.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: The IRA did limit the cost of Insulin. Make sure that you are using insulin and not another injectable. You should check with your local Broker each year on your part D plan, things change.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: I don't think that we will ever privatize Medicare. Medicare is always seen favorably as a program that the government does well.

Answer: The disadvantage of the PPO is that your expenses can be higher than a HMO or Original Medicare and a supplement. Check with your Local Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: The Annual Election Period is October 15 - December 7. However you may have an opportunity to change at other time. If this was your first time in a Medicare Advantage Plan and you want to go to Original Medicare you can do that in the first 12 months. There may be special election periods in your area. It is best to check with your Local Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: You make more money then your friends. IRMAA = Income related Monthly Adjusted Amount.

Once your income goes over $109,000/year for a single individual and $218,000 for a Married couple filing jointly what you pay for parts B and D of Medicare will increase.

Contact your Local Broker

Brokers Make a Difference

Answer: In escense they are the same thing. Insurance companies call their policies Medicare Supplement and Medicare refers to them as Medigap plans. Two names for the same thing. Medicare Supplements work Secondary to Medicare, so if Medicare approve a procedure then the Medicare supplement will pay what it is contracted to pay. If Medicare does not approve a procedure then neither Medicare nor the supplement will pay.

Have your broker explain this to you.

Contact a Local Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: If your income is low you need to speak with your Broker and have them explain the options you have with your Part D plan to stretch out payment or to apply for Extra Help from the Government, alson know as Limited Income Subsidy. You can go online to Medicare.gov to fill out the form or call your local Social Security Office and request a form.

Contact a Local Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: Medicare has changed rules and lowered the reimbursement rates for insurance companies and they have made a financial decision to stop providing the coverage in their area. It is important to pay attention to the ANOC, Annual Notice of Change, that the companies must send each year in the Fall. The ANOC will have what is happening for the following year. It is important to use a local broker and they will be able to help in the event you lose coverage. You have a short window of time to get new coverage so pay attention.

Contact a Local Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: Unfortunately, we work for a lifetime under one system and then when we retire the systme changes and it is unfamiliar to what we have known. The best way to understand Medicare is to find a local broker who knows Medicare and they will be able to explain the differences. The internet or AI is not the place to figure this out. Ask friend for referrals to a Broker they trust.

Contact a Local Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: IRMMA is Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount so if your income high you will have to pay the IRMAA. If there is a one time event like a sale of property you can request an exemption for that event.

Unfortunately, if you have a traditional 401k or IRA when you withdraw for your Required Minimum Distibution your income may go over the amount for IRMAA.

Contact a Local Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: Medicare Advantage plans are guarnateed issue plans. There are no health questions to qualify for a plan. You must check your Doctors, Hospital and Medications are covered in the plans network, this is very important.

Contact a Local Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: Doctors and hospitals have the legal right to add up to 15% to your bill over what Medicare approves. So if Medicare approves $1000, you could be charged the 20% part B co insurance and an extra 15% in excess charges. You would pay $200 + $150 = $350 and Medicare would pay $800. So it is not 80%/20%.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan currently there is no worry about this. If you have a Medicare Supplement/Medigap Plan, Plan F & G will cover the excess charges.

Meet with a local broker.

Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: Part B covers medicarions that are typically administered in a Dr's office. Breathing treatments which can be done at home can use medication that is paid under part B.

Answer: Some Medicare brokers are moving to a Fee based practice. Most brokers don't charge a fee and are paid by the insurance company. Brokers are paid to service the policy by doing field underwriting and are responsible for helping clients with questions and problems.

Find a local broker. Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: No. You need a scope if you are going to talk about a Medicare Advantage plan or a Part D plan.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: If you move you need to inform your company of your new address. The rate may change. That is all that will happen. You should contact a local agent to get any help you may need.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: The basics are 5 tiers, Tier 1 preferred generic, Tier 2 Non Preferred Generic, Tier 3 Preferred Name Brand, Tier 4 Non Preferred Name Brand, Tier 5 Specialty. The company decides what drugs are on their formulary and what tier they fall in.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: You don't lose your benefits. As long as you are eligible for part A and pay for part B you can keep your Medicare. Medicare will not pay in foreign countries.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: Check the companies website, however they usually don't offer help if you have Medicare because you should have help paying for your medication thru a part D plan.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: What ever it is if you have met your part B deductible you will pay 20% of the cost. If there is a helicopter involved that could reach into the thousands. Medicare alone is a financial mistake.

Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: There is no better, they cover the same things. If you are asking because you believe you only need Original Medicare and nothing else, that can be expensive. With a Medicare Advantage plan you have what is called a MOOP, Maximum Out Of Pocket that is capped by law @ $9400 - $14000 depending on the type of plan. This is the most you will pay in a calendar year. Original Medicare has no Maximum, you could ring up very large bills at a 20% cost share.

If you are asking about Original Medicare with a Medigap/Medicare Supplement, than what needs to be looked at are cost.

It is important to sit down with a local broker to go over the differences based on your situation and your risk tolerance.

Brokers Make A Difference!!!

Answer: A Scope of Appointment form is designed to let the client know what will be discussed in the meeting. The products to discuss are limited to health policies, so no life or annuities. It is a requirement of Medicare. Currently an agent needs to have a SOA signed and wait 48 hours before completing the sale. If you call into a call center they are supposed to record a scope at the beginning of the call.

It is important to use a local broker.

Brokers Make A Difference!!!

Answer: Medicare will cover a CGM for diabetes and supplies if you use insulin. If you have Original Medicare it is covered under part B, durable medical equipment. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan you need to check to see what brand they will pay for.

Answer: Maximum Out of Pocket is the most you will pay for health care during the calendar year. About 3% of the Medicare Advantage population hits the maximum. Once you have spent up to the Maximum you will pay no more for procedures covered by part A & B of Medicare. In my opinion this is the best part of the Advantage plans. Original Medicare has no MOOP. Your local agent can go over this when you are looking at a Medicare Advantage plan.

Brokers Make A Difference.

Answer: You have certain times of year that you can switch back to Original Medicare. Every year you can go back to Original Medicare during the Annual Election Period, Oct 15 - Dec 7 and it will start Jan 1. There is another period from Jan 1 - Mar 30. If this was your 1st time in an Advantage plan you have 12 months to go back to Original Medicare. It is important to have a local broker to go over your options.

Brokers Make A Difference.

Answer: Yes. If you are deem in need of home care it will be covered by Medicare Part A's skilled care. It does need a Dr's order and does not cover custodial care.

Answer: Yes! Medicare will cover telehealth for specialists. The specialist must be able to bill Medicare and most of the time you need to be able to do a video call.

Answer: You can call the insurance carrier directly, however you may have to wait on hold for a long time. Your local agent is paid to service your account and most likely can answer your questions in a timely manner.

Brokers Make A Difference!

Answer: Every year you need to meet with your local broker to go over changes for the following year. This is especially true for Medicare Advantage and Part D plans, as they have the most changes each year.

Brokers Make A Difference!

Answer: Depending on what type of plan you have will determine what you will need to do. If you have original Medicare and a supplement, you need to call the number on the back of the card and inform the company of your new address. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan and or a Part D prescription drug plan, you will need to make sure that you contact a local broker and sign up for a plan that will work in your new area. You have 60 days to do this, so don't procrastinate.

Brokers make a Difference.

Answer: Medications that are covered on your policies formulary and are purchased using you Part D plan all count towards your maximum out of pocket. as of 2025 there is no coverage gap.

Contact a local insurance Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference!!!

Answer: Medicare does cover asthma and breathing conditions like COPD. When it comes to Medications it is important to check each year to make sure your policy covers the medications you are taking. Some of the medications are covered under Part B of Medicare.

Contact a local insurance Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference!!!

Answer: Medicare is inflation adjusted each year. In my opinion I believe it will be here in the future but maybe in a different way than it is now.

Contact a local insurance Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference!!!

Answer: You are able to get Medicare at age 65 weather you have started collecting Social Security or not. If you are asking, can you receive Medicare if you did not pay into Social Security you would need to pay for parts A and B. You must be a US citizen.

Contact a local insurance Broker.

Brokers Make a Difference!!!

Answer: Medicare does not cover custodial care long-term. Medicare covers skilled care for up to 20 day and then partially for the next 80 days. Medicaid will come in and help cover cost after spending your assets.

Contact a local broker who is experienced in this type of care.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: Each year agents are required to take a general class and classes with each carrier to know what the changes are for the next year. Personally I attend class, seminars and keep up with reasearch through the year.

Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: We run into this a lot in small rural areas. You should be using a local agent who can guide you thru these issues. If you don't have an agent you can call the carrier and they may allow you to go to a dentist in your area if there are no others within a reasonable distance. You should always use an agent.

Brokers Make a Difference!!!

Answer: Medicare.gov allows anyone to look up insurance plans that cover medications. Unfortunately due to some new laws, insurers have chosen not to compensate agents for helping people find plans that work for them. Find a good local broker who will show you the way.

Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: That depends. If you do not have coverage with a company of more that 20 employees, then yes.

If you paid into Social Security for 40 quarters you are entitled to part A of Medicare and should enroll. If you are working and your company has fewer than 20 employees, you do need to enroll in both Parts A&B, who become your primary insurer. If you work for an employer with more than 20 employees, you may not be required to enroll in Medicare until you leave your employer. Enrolling in Part A makes it easier when you leave your employer, the employer will be your primary insurer. Find a qualified local broker.

Brokers Make a Difference!!!

Answer: If you are a licensed agent that is a start. If you are not an agent find a qualified broker in your area. You want someone who has been around for a while and represents several companies.

NABIP is the National Association of Brokers and Insurance Professionals.

Brokers Make a Difference!!!

Answer: I get paid a commission from the insurance companies that I represent. When all things are equal it does play a part in companies that I recommend. What a broker brings to the table is experience with companies and will know if a company is easy for the client to work with. When it comes to Medigap for example, all plans with the same letter all provide the same basic benefits. Some may add on gym memberships or discount programs that can make a difference, even if the commission is lower. It's all about doing right for the client. Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: I have been helping people in my community for the past 20 years to understand how Medicare works and what their options are. I enjoy helping people and saving them money. Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: If you only have Medicare parts A & B, you are responsible for 20% of the cost of a visit to a specialist. If you only have part A you are paying all costs. You need to contact a local broker who can help you save money. Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: In 2026 the maximum you will pay for prescription drugs is $2100. If you purchase you medications using a discount card or other source what you spend will not count toward your $2100 maximum. You need to work with a broker to do the best for your situation. Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: Medicare was designed to cover the basics in later years. When developed, life expectancy was 69 years old and Hospital/Dr bills weren't as expensive. There have been many improvements over the years. Contact a local broker because Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: If you are eligible for Medicare A & B you should contact a local broker who can guide you through the process. Your broker will explain the difference between a Medigap/Supplement and Medicare Advantage and once you decide which is best for you, your broker can help to guide you into the most cost efficient plan for you.

Answer: If you have a Medigap/Supplement plan your cost will be the monthly premium plus the deductible and that's it. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan you have a maximum out of pocket limit which vary from plan to plan. Your medications will be covered by your Part D plan and covered drugs are capped at $2100 in 2026.

Answer: No. It sounds like your friend has a Medicare Advantage plan and you have a Medicare Supplement. Medicare Advantage or part C of Medicare can have a $0 monthly premium, you pay when you get care. The Medicare Supplement you pay a premium monthly and you don't pay when you get care.

Answer: You were warned in the paperwork you received. If you used an agent they should have discussed this after checking all your medications. If you did this on your own you should have read the fine print.

Answer: Well, they are 2 different things. Part D is only for prescriptions and Medicare Advantage replaced your part A& B and could add part D. Your medications may be less expensive in a MA. Brokers Make a Difference, so find your self a local Broker who can guide you through the process.

Answer: It depends. If your spouses employer has fewer than 20 employees you will need Medicare. For most people there is no charge for Medicare Part A, as long as you worked and paid in to Social Security for 40 quarters. If you qualify at no charge, it makes sense to start your part A, it makes it easier when you want to add part B and choose a Medigap or MA plan.

Brokers make a Difference, find one in your area.

Answer: As long as you qualify for Medicare your income doesn't matter. If your income is high you may need to pay more for parts B and D. Make sure to use a local broker. Brokers make a difference!

Answer: You can appel to Medicare. The agency you plan to use should beable to help with this if it is medically necessary.

Answer: A local agent knows your specific area and the plans that work the best. Local agents are interested in making sure they take care of their clients. Phone agents are interested in making a sale. Brokers make a difference.

Answer: Blood thinners are Medications that are covered by Part D of Medicare. You need to use a local broker who can look for plans that cover your medications, whether a stand alone part D plan or an MAPD. Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: The biggest disadvantages to MA plans is not knowing how they work. It is important to use a qualified local broker who represents many companies, because Brokers Make A Difference.

Answer: Medicare disability kicks in 24 months after you have been on Disability. You should get a card at that point.

Answer: Medicare Advantage plans have lost the ability to provide some extras that were available last year. Drug prices are less on Advantage plans.

Answer: You can switch to a Medicare supplement from a Medicare Advantage plan under certain circumstances.

- If this is the first time you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan and have had that plan for less than 12 months you have a guaranteed right to a Supplement.

- If you had a Supplement and switched to a Medicare Advantage plan you have the right to go back to the Supplement you had within 12 months. If your previous insurance company no longer provides supplement then you can go to any company in your area. You are limited to certain plans.

Answer: Medicare may cover genetic testing. If you meet their criteria. You healthcare provider should be able to guide you thru this process.

Answer: Medicare Part B is an optional program that generally covers 80% of approved medical services after an annual deductible. If you are actively working and have creditable employer coverage, you may be able to delay Part B enrollment without penalty.

For most people, Part B requires a monthly premium, which is higher for individuals with higher incomes.

You can enroll in Part B during your Initial Enrollment Period, which runs from three months before your birth month through three months after your birth month.

If you miss this window and do not have other creditable coverage, you must wait until the General Enrollment Period (January 1–March 31). Coverage will begin the first day of the month after you enroll, and you may be subject to a late enrollment penalty.

Answer: Medicare covers many preventative procedures like mammograms and cervical and vaginal cancer screening. Mammograms are covered every 12 months unless there is a reason for more. Medicare also covers an annual wellness check, immunizations, colorectal screening, depression, diabetes, HIV, Prostate, Hep C, Lung cancer, STD...

Answer: If you did this without the use of a licensed broker you should have read all of the information. If you did this with an agent, the agent apparently glossed over your concern. You have an opportunity to change from Jan 1 - Mar 31.

Brokers Make a Difference. Everyone should use a local competent Broker/agent who represent quality plans in your area. They will be able to help find a plan that will meet your requirements.

Answer: No. Medicare doesn't not cover services outside the US. It may cover in an emergency. You need to check your additional coverage, medical or Medicare Advantage.

Answer: Typically, Medicare part B pays for intravenous drugs like chemotherapy. If you have a supplement they will pick up the remainder.

Answer: As long as medicare approved your procedure your insurance will pay their share of the bill. You can go to Medicare.gov and check procedures.

Answer: No, you can do everything yourself. You can do all the research, training and aquire years of experience. You will not save money doing it yourself, so why not use an experienced insurance broker. Brokers make a difference.

Answer: That is a political question. Medicare is always trying to figure out how to improve what they do based on who is in office. You need to use an insurance broker. Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: You need to use an insurance broker. Brokers Make a Difference! A broker is obligated by their license to provide all information and advise you on the plan that will work for you.

Answer: NO!!! Medicare does not pay for groceries. Medicaid may pay for groceries in your state. Some Medicare Advantage plans help with groceries. You need to use an insurance broker. Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: It is a little sketchy. You need to use an insurance broker who represents several different companies and compare benefits. Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: If you had creditable coverage from an employer you maybe ok. If you didn't turn on part B of Medicare you will have a guarantee to get covered. You need to use an insurance broker. Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: Medicare in general does not pay for dental services. If it is related to something that is a medical reason it may be covered.

Medicare Advantage plans may cover implants. You need to use an insurance broker. Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: After your open enrollment period you can be denied a Medicare supplement. It is important to know the rules. Use a local insurance broker. Brokers Make a Difference!

Answer: You should review your plan on a yearly basis and make sure that you check if your therapy in network and make sure you are covered.

Answer: If you have original Medicare you need to call your Dr or other health care provider and ask if they accept Medicare. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan you need to call the number on the back of your card and ask if the provider is in their network.

Answer: If you are on original Medicare and have nothing else it will not have any effect. You are still entitled to coverage from Medicare.

Answer: Speak with an insurance broker to show you your options.

Brokers make a difference. Your health may be a factor.

Answer: It is ok to meet with every agent in your area, but not wise. If you think your confused now , try that.

You need to find an agent who brokers for many different companies. An agent who represents one company will not necessarily do what is best for you.

Brokers make a difference. Find one you like and trust.

Answer: If you are asking about an Advantage plan or Drug plan the answer is yes. However, find a local broker who will have the knowledge to help. Brokers make a difference!

Answer: If you have a Medicare Advantage plan you should check every year, when you get your Annual notice of Change.

If you have a Medigap/Supplement plan you need to keep an eye on the increase in your rate. If you have had the same plan for many years it is time to change.

You should always use a local agent that brokers several companies. Brokers Make a Difference.

Answer: I wish that people knew that local agents make a difference. You should find a local Medicare agent who brokers many different companies. There is no charge to use a local agent. Don't call someone you see on TV.

Answer: It is covered by Medicare if your Dr has recommended that you need it. Brokers make a difference, so find a knowledgeable local agent to help you.

Answer: Maybe! Medicare will cover medical issues that seniors have. It won't cover things like cosmetic surgery. It doesn't cover Dental, Vision or hearing aids. If you continue to work and your insurance is as good as Medicare it is best to turn on part A and suspend part B until you retire.

Brokers Make a Difference. Find a local insurance agent who brokers several companies and let them help.

Answer: 2 different types of insurance. Insurance is a contract between an insurance company and a client, that's all. Medicare covers health, Dr, Hospital and Presciptions. Life insurance covers for a premature death. You may need a different type of life insurance for a different issues as you get older. You may need Life insurance to cover wrapping up and estate, burial, income replacement, leaving a legacy or to helping with Long Term Care. It is important to speak with a LOCAL LICENSED AGENT who brokers for many companies. BROKERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Answer: Some are helpful. There is no need to feel like you have to do something in a rush. Proper seminars are educational in nature and if you would like a future meeting the agents will set one up upon your request.

Answer: Typically 3 months before your birth month up to 3 months after. If you miss this period and dont have creditable coverage you will have to wait until January and you will be penalized for part B and D. If you are working and have coverage at work you should turn on part A only.

Answer: No, you don't have to sign up again. You will have more options that can possibly save you money. You have another open enrollment period once you turn 65.

Answer: The biggest mistake people make is not using a LOCAL LICENSED AGENT who brokers for many companies. Going it alone can cost thousands and you don't pay an agent.

Answer: Specialty medications can be expensive. Unfortunately the companies have stopped using agents and expect you to self enroll. Find a good local agent who may help. For 2026 there is a cap of $2100. You can spread payments over 12 months. Always question your Dr. The drug manufacturer may have palns to help.

Answer: YES! Original Medicare can be very costly. At least on a Medicare Advantage plan you have a cap on costs. Always use a LOCAL LICENSED AGENT who brokers many different companies. BROKERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Answer: Dental is an added extra. Some cover only cleaning, exams and xrays. Some cover that and more. You need to us a LOCAL LICENSED AGENT who brokers for several different companies. If you call company ABC all they will tell you about is their plans. BROKERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Answer: Maybe. You should ALWAYS use a local agent who is a broker for several companies. Both Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage. You need to consider the maximum You will pay in a year. The MA has a cap. The Supplement has a premium. The Supplement can also have co-pays and deductibles.

Answer: As long as the Surgeon accepts Medicare, you supplement will pay what they are supposed to. Once the insurance company offers you a policy and you accept, the contract is in force, as long as there was no fraud.

Answer: No. The current regulations hurt local agents who physically see clients. The idea someone can get to knownyou in a short phonetically is ridiculous.

Answer: Original Medicare with a Supplement(Medigap) will allow you to go to any Doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare. Some Medicare Advantage plans allow you to setup innetwork for temporary stay or a PPO allows you to go out of your home network.

Answer: You should be skeptical of anyone pushing anything. Medicare Advantage plans don't take as much time educating the client. You should see a licensed local broker who represents both Advantage and Supplements. A good agent will explain the differences based on what is in the Medicare and you book. It is up to the client how they want to spend their money. There is nothing wrong with either, you just need to know the differences.

Answer: Hospital can participate in Medicare or not. If the question is if they accept Medicare Advantage plans, that is up to the hospital negotiating with the insurance company.

Answer: 1st get your Medicare card. You need to go to SSA.gov and sign up for your card. Then you can look for drug plans, supplements or Medicare Advantage.

Answer: There are several Special Needs Plans. The most common is the Dual Special Needs Plan, D-SNP, this is for people who have Medicare and Medicaid.

There are Chronic Special Needs Plans, C-SNP for people with chronic conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, heart and liver.

Last are Institutional Special Needs Plans, I-SNP, for people in a nursing home.

Answer: Premium is what you pay for an Insurance Policy.

Deductible is what you pay before the insurance company will pay.

Copays are a dollar amount you pay when you use your insurance and CoInsurance is a percentage you pay.

Answer: You do not have to turn on your Social Security to have Medicare. As you work money is taken from your pay to pay for Part A of Medicare, as long as you work 40 quarters and pay into Social Security you receive Part A at no cost to you once you turn 65. If you are still working at 65 and are receiving Healthcare from an Employer, you should turn on part A and delay Part B. Once you leave employee coverage you need to turn on Part B and then you have certain rights.

You can turn you Social Security on as early as 62, currently full retirement age is 67. If you wait past 67 you receive an 8% increase each year until you turn 70.

Make sure you speak with an experienced Health Insurance Agent for correct information.

If you call Social Security they cannot give you any advise.

Answer: Licensed agents go through training to learn how Medicare works and what is available for their clients. Agents are required to do what is best for their clients. You want to work with an agent who brokers for many different companies so they can find you the policy that will work best for you and provide you with a policy to take the worry out of the process.

Answer: If your Medicare Supplement policy has had a substantial increase and you are healthy you can look to another insurance company for the same coverage at a lower rate. If your not healthy some states have what is known as the Birthday Rule. Here in Virginia anyone can change insurance companies but not the plan letter during a 60 period from the date of their birth. Make sure to reach out to a licensed agent to help guide you through this procedure.