Erica Huffstetler, Medicare Insurance Broker

Answer: Medicare covers telehealth visits under Part B, and living in a rural area helps. You can do most visits from home right now, but the rules may change after October 1, 2025, when some visits could require being at a clinic. Mental-health visits will still be allowed from home. Medicare Advantage plans often include even more telehealth options, so check your plan for details.

Answer: Original and Medigap policies do not cover Dental Benefits. You can add a standalone Dental policy on top of your Original Medicare. You don't have to make the switch if you are happy with what you have.

Answer: You’ll be responsible for the Part A deductible (if hospitalized) and 20% coinsurance under Part B after meeting your deductible. A Medigap plan can help cover that 20%. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, your costs depend on your plan’s copays, coinsurance, and network rules. Always check your plan’s summary of benefits before surgery so you know what to expect.

Answer: Medicare Part B covers intensive or partial inpatient or outpatient treatment. After you meet your deductible you will be responsible for 20% coinsurance, which can add up to large bill. Original Medicare, paired with a MEDIGAP plan will cover that 20%. There will be a monthly premium to pay, but there would be no surprise bills.

Answer: It depends on your employer size. If your company has 20 or more employes, you can usually keep your employer plan and enroll in Medicare later. If your company has fewer than 20, you should sign up for Medicare now. You have 3 months after your 65th Birthday to enroll.

Answer: Medicare covers standard cataract surgery and basic intraocular lenses, but not the premium lenses like Multifocal or astigmatism- correcting lenses. Those are considered an "upgrade", so the extra cost is your responsibility. It's important to discuss this whith your surgeon beforehand.

Answer: I love helping people navigate Medicare. It can be really confusing, and it's rewarding to know that I am guiding someone through such an important part of their life. Finding a solution that fits your medical needs, and your budget makes my day.

Answer: It's usually not wise working with multiple agents at the same time. Each agent may submit different plan applications causing confusion. It's best to stick with one agent. If that agent isn't educating you properly on how Medicare works, then find another one.

Answer: Medicare doesn't cover most assisted living costs such as rent, meals or help with daily activities. It mainly covers medical care like doctors' visits and hospital stays. For long-term assisted living, seniors usually pay out of pocket or use long-term care insurance. It's a common area where Medicare coverage falls short. There are Life insurance policies available with "long-term care Riders."

Answer: Yes- Medicare part Part B covers medical devices that are prescribed by your doctor and labeled as " Durable Medical equipment." You'll typically pay 20% coinsurance after you meet your part B deductible. A MEDIGAP plan can cover that 20% which can add up fast. Talk to an agent to find out more

Answer: Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids. HOWEVER, many Medicare Advantage plans offer Hearing Benefits.

Answer: Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private insurance companies, but they are still a part of Medicare. Because they are still a part of Medicare, they have to follow the Center of Medicaid and Medicare services guidelines which sets the Premiums, Deductibles, Copays etc.

Answer: Many regret it because their doctors are not in network or they face Prior Authorizations and Copays. Original Medicare is best paired with a MediGap policy to help absorb some of those costs.

Answer: Go to your plan’s website and use the “Find a Doctor” tool or call the number on your member ID card. Networks change each year, so always double-check before making an appointment.

Answer: You can’t use discount cards with Medicare Part D—you’d have to pay cash instead, and that amount won’t count toward your deductible or out-of-pocket limit. Compare with your plan copay, and pick the cheaper option.

Answer: Many Advantage plans advertise dental, but most only include basic cleanings and exams. It’s a common misunderstanding, which is why working with an agent to review the full summary of benefits before enrolling can help you avoid surprises like this.

Answer: It really depends on your health needs and budget. A licensed Medicare agent can explain the differences between Advantage and Medigap plans so you can decide which one fits your situation best.

Answer: Each Part D plan has its own formulary, so coverage and costs can vary a lot. It’s best to have an agent review your specific medication list to find the plan that fits your needs and budget.

Answer: Medicare may cover remote monitoring if your doctor orders it. Both Medigap and Advantage plans can help with costs, so it’s worth comparing how each handles home and follow-up care.

Answer: A common misconception is that you have to figure out Medicare on your own. The truth is, a good agent can guide you through it step by step and make the whole process a lot easier.

Answer: Medicare can be confusing, so don’t try to figure it out alone. A good agent will walk you through a Medicare 101 and help you avoid mistakes that could cost you later.

Answer: Working with a Medicare agent helps you make sense of all the options and avoid costly mistakes. I take the time to understand your specific doctors, prescriptions, and budget so you can choose coverage that truly fits your needs. Not just what looks cheapest on paper

Answer: It really depends on whether your parent has Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan. With Original Medicare, coverage generally works anywhere in the U.S. as long as the hospital accepts Medicare, which makes it easier if they need care out of state. With a Medicare Advantage plan, things work a little differently. These plans usually have networks, so if your parent goes to a hospital outside of that network, the care might be limited or cost more. The good news is that emergencies are covered anywhere in the country, even with Medicare Advantage.