Jackie Welch, Medicare Insurance Broker
Jackie Welch
Tru-Care Insurance
Medicare Broker Licensed in TX and AZ
Contact Details
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Location
Princeton, TX
About Me
Hi, I’m Jackie — and this work is personal to me.
I help people make sense of Medicare not just because I’m licensed to do it, but because I’ve seen what happens when people try to figure it out alone.
I’ve watched loved ones feel confused, overwhelmed, or taken advantage of.
So I made it my mission to be the kind of guide I wish they had. Someone
who explains things clearly, listens first, and leads with heart.
I’m certified in both Medicare and ACA coverage, and I have a special passion
for helping veterans and caregivers the people who’ve given so much and
deserve real support in return.
If you’re navigating a new plan, aging into Medicare, or just need someone to
walk through it with you — I’m here. No pressure. No fluff. Just honest help,
every step of the way. And don't worry, my services are provided free of charge! Contact me to discover your Medicare insurance alternatives and don't forget to mention that you discovered me on Medicare Agents Hub!
Q&A with Jackie Welch
Can Medicare drop me for health reasons?
Answer: No. Medicare will not drop you for health reasons. This question is sometimes brought up because a Medigap or supplement can deny enrollment due to medical history if the enrollment is attempted outside of a guaranteed issue window (the first 6 months after enrolling in part B). However, this applies only to the supplemental policy (not Medicare itself) and only if attempting to enroll (not if already enrolled in a plan).
Does Medicare cover assisted living?
Answer: No, Medicare does not cover assisted living or long-term care. Medicare will cover medically necessary services while someone is in the facility (procedures, medications, etc).
I just moved to a new state. Do I need to do anything with my Medicare coverage?
Answer: Yes. First, you'll want to update your address with Social Security. You can do this on the Social Security website or by giving them a call.
Next, you'll want to take a look at the specific type of Medicare plans you have. If you have Medicare Advantage plan or a Prescription Drug Plan the plan you were on previously will very possibly not be useable in your new state. You will qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to shop for and enroll in a new plan that will provide coverage in the new state. This will need to be completed quickly. This can be completed a month prior to the move and two months afterwards.
If you are enrolled in a Medigap or Medicare supplement plan, your plan usually travels with you nationwide. However, you will still need to update your address with the plan. Premiums may be impacted and it may be beneficial to shop rates in the new state.
Lastly, don't forget to transfer your prescriptions to a new, local pharmacy and establish new providers. If you are on a Medicare Advantage plan, be sure that any new providers are in-network.
Does Medicare cover heart monitors?
Answer: The short answer is yes. However... actual coverage will depend on several different factors. First and foremost, it must be considered medically necessary and be ordered by your doctor. The next things to consider are the type of monitor and whether prior authorization would be required.
Does life insurance affect my Medicare eligibility or premiums?
Answer: Not at all. Your life insurance is a separate policy and has no bearing on either your Medicare eligibility or your premium.
How do Medicare copays work?
Answer: With Original Medicare your copays work a little differently than they did on employer insurance. Where you may be familiar with paying a flat rate of $25 for a doctor's visit or $50 for a specialist on your previous plan, with Original Medicare you will generally be looking at a 20% copay that can fluctuate based on the cost of the service.
However, if you are looking at a Medicare Advantage plan, it's going to operate in that more familiar structure. Since Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance they are going to work in that same type of way. Here you would have those flat rate copays within the applicable provider network.
I'm planning to delay Social Security until age 70, but I'm turning 65 soon. How does this affect my Medicare enrollment?
Answer: Great question! You may absolutely choose to delay taking social security without it affecting your Medicare enrollment. You will still need to enroll in Medicare within your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) to avoid penalties. (Unless you are delaying Medicare because you have other credible coverage from an active employer plan) In the case that you are on Medicare prior to Social Security you will be paying your Part B premium directly rather than having it come out of a social security check.
An agent asked me to sign a scope of appointment for before we could discuss my Medicare insurance or part D plan. What is an SOA? Is this normal? Are call centers exempt from this practice?
Answer: Yes, a SOA is required by CMS (government body that regulates Medicare/Medicaid) before an agent is able to speak to you about certain Medicare plans. It is documentation showing what scope (Medicare options) you are willing to discuss during the appointment. It is designed to protect you, the consumer, from an agent trying to direct you to a type of Medicare option that you are uninterested in discussing. Call centers are not exempt. There are some variances as to when the scope is required (inbound vs outbound call, etc) and the call center may not ask for it at the beginning of the conversation if it is not yet deemed necessary.
My oxygen provider says I need yearly re-evaluations for oxygen coverage, but my last one lapsed and now they are charging me. I’ve been with them since 2017. Please help.
Answer: First, let’s schedule the re-evaluation asap. Medicare coverage most often needs to show “medical necessity.” Next, did Medicare deny the claim or is the provider holding billing until the documentation is resolved? Many times, once the proper documentation is updated the original billing can resume. Also, since it has been over 5 years the provider may not choose to proceed. In that case, a new provider will be needed and the proof of “medical necessity” will be required.
What are the reasons why I should work with a Medicare agent?
Answer: A Medicare agent is going to be able to walk you through the various Medicare options and plans available in your area. Rather than scrolling through a list of plans and picking the one that feels right, a Medicare agent will be able to help you locate a plan that supports your unique circumstances. Your neighbor’s, best friend’s cousin may swear by a particular plan, but if that plan doesn’t cover your medications or include your doctors, then it’s not going to be helpful to you. A good Medicare agent is someone who listens to you, educates you, and shows you the options available so that you can choose the one that works for you.