Edward Wooten, Medicare Insurance Broker

Answer: Being informed can deter the regret. Similar to car and house insurance you really do not know how great your coverage is until you have a claim. With a supplement/Medigap you're covered for the remaining 20% on covered health services and supplies. You do pay a monthly premium for the supplement/Medigap plan as it does provide consistency and flexibility. With an Advantage plan, you pay as you go and are subject to changes every year in coverage and out of pocket expenses. There are plans that cover specific conditions at a relatively low cost that can help mitigate big bills.

Answer: You will have coverage wherever you travel to in the country. If you are traveling for months at a time there are companies and plans that may accommodate you better. If you are traveling out of the country adding trip insurance is a good idea.

Answer: Your premiums are based on your TAXABLE income from two years prior. 2027 premiums will be based on income from this year so speak to your tax accountant and or financial advisor to help you prepare for future premiums that most likely will be more than they are now.

Answer: Your part B covers equipment that is medically necessary. Make sure your doctor and suppliers accept your plan, so you won't be hit with paying for all of it. If you purchase equipment hoping to be reimbursed you may be disappointed.

Answer: Yes! Part B will cover those with diabetes, kidney disease, or if a kidney transplant was done within 3 years. In order for Medicare to cover, your physician must recommend the service and only a registered dietitian or professional nutritionist will be approved.

Answer: I would recommend sitting down with a Medicare professional and work together selecting a plan that works best for you! Many factors come into play so ask questions to know how that plan will fit your needs. Ask your family and friends why they suggest one over the other and discuss those concerns when speaking to your agent. They all love and care for you but select the option that is in your best interest!

Answer: Majority of advantage plans are similar to plans you may have through an employer. Including major medical coverage you may have also received vision, dental, hearing. Advantage plans will have a network of doctors you may choose from, coverages and the max out of pocket may be adjusted from year to year, and flexibility to choose a different plan each year.

Answer: There are many options to help get the costs of your prescriptions lowered. Ask your physician if there is a generic or alternative option for you. There are many online sites offering help with certain prescriptions. You may also contact the drug manufacturer, your insurance company, and or speak to your pharmacist to see if there is another option or payment plan.

Answer: Majority of Advantage plans include hearing coverage. There are a few ways to verify:

1. Contact your agent (fastest)

2. Review your plan booklet or documents

3. Create an online account, which is a great way to stay informed about your plan including any perks your plan may offer.

4. Call the company you are insured with

Answer: Enrolling in Medicare when you are first eligible is crucial to avoid being penalized, however, if you continue to work past your IEP (initial enrollment period) you may be able to delay your enrollment by having creditable coverage. The two main reasons you would be penalized is not enrolling during your window and/or not having creditable coverage.

Answer: Most plans will and do cover medically necessary lab tests and preventive screenings that your physician orders. Engage in conversation with your physician and nurse so you understand why the tests are being ordered and performed. You and your doctor being on the same page leads to a healthier you!

Answer: If you are still working, deciding to join or delaying Medicare can be a big decision. There are a few factors that can come in to play if you are thinking about delaying. Be proactive and contact an agent to help you avoid making a costly mistake.

Answer: Once you are approaching 65 or contemplating retirement if you're working past 65 is a good time to start researching. Prior to the beginning of your first 3 months of the seven-month window (IEP-Initial Enrollment Period) is worthwhile. Any changes to existing Advantage plans are released mid-October so contacting an agent can make it easier to decide if your current plan will continue to fit your needs.

Answer: If your employment or health coverage ended within the past 8 months, whichever happened first, you may qualify for Special Enrollment. You might also be eligible if you're currently covered under a group health plan or have an exceptional situation. If neither of these situations apply, you can enroll during the General Enrollment Period, which runs from January 1 to March 31.

Answer: Your part B covers many preventative services. Medicare may cover some services and tests more often if those services are needed to diagnose or treat a condition. Majority of services are covered if administered by a doctor or other qualified health care provider that accepts your plan, however, you could be responsible for your deductible.