Keith Richardson, Medicare Insurance Broker

Answer: A good Medicare seminar should focus on education first, not pressure.

Here's what you should expect from a quality seminar:

Explain the basics of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D.

Discuss Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement.

Review enrollment timelines and common mistakes.

Answer general questions.

What shouldn't happen:

High-pressure sales tactics.

Being told you must enroll that day.

Feeling like you can't leave without making a decision.

Misleading statements such as "this plan is the best for everyone."

I educate and inform and will tell them to take a card and call me if they have any further questions and not focus on trying to sale them.

Answer: "Special Needs Plans, or SNPs, are Medicare Advantage plans designed for people with specific healthcare needs. There are three main types: D-SNPs for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid, C-SNPs for people with certain qualifying chronic conditions, and I-SNPs for people who live in a nursing home or need a similar level of care. These plans often provide specialized care coordination and benefits tailored to the people they serve. If you're wondering whether you qualify, I'd be happy to help you review your options."

Answer: "Yes. If you have a family history of colon cancer or another qualifying high-risk condition, Medicare may cover screening colonoscopies more frequently than it does for someone at average risk. Your doctor can help determine the appropriate screening schedule based on your medical history."

If you're discussing your own situation with your doctor, they can determine whether you meet Medicare's definition of high risk and recommend the appropriate screening interval.

Answer: "If you're on Original Medicare without a supplement, Medicare Part B generally pays 80% of the Medicare-approved cost of a medically necessary ambulance ride after you've met your Part B deductible. You would typically be responsible for the deductible, if applicable, and the remaining 20%."

Without a Medicare Supplement, there is no cap on your 20% coinsurance under Original Medicare, which is one reason some beneficiaries choose to add supplemental coverage or enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes an annual maximum out-of-pocket limit.

Answer: Your Medicare deductible reset because most Medicare deductibles start over at the beginning of each calendar year—January 1.

Answer: Most Part D plans include Repatha on their formulary, but it is often placed on a higher-cost tier, which may mean higher copays or coinsurance.

Many plans require prior authorization, meaning your doctor must show that Repatha is medically necessary.

Some plans may also require step therapy, such as trying a statin or another cholesterol-lowering medication first, unless there is a medical reason you cannot take one.

Answer: One benefit of Original Medicare that many people overlook is the flexibility to see any doctor or healthcare provider in the United States who accepts Medicare. Unlike some other types of coverage, you generally don't have to worry about provider networks or obtaining referrals to see a specialist.

Another advantage is that Original Medicare can be especially convenient for people who travel frequently or spend part of the year in another state, since participating Medicare providers can be found nationwide.

However, it's also important to understand that Original Medicare doesn't cover everything. Many people choose to add a Medicare Supplement policy and a Part D prescription drug plan, or they may decide that a Medicare Advantage plan better fits their needs. The right choice depends on your health, budget, travel habits, and personal preferences.

That's why it's helpful to review all of your options before making a decision.

Answer: Here are a few simple tips to stay safe:

Be cautious of anyone offering "free" medical equipment or services in exchange for your Medicare number.

Don't feel pressured to make an immediate decision. Take your time and ask questions.

Review your Medicare statements regularly for services or supplies you didn't receive.

Work with a licensed Medicare agent or contact Medicare directly if you're unsure whether an offer is legitimate.

If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

The best protection is to stay informed, ask questions, and only share your personal information with trusted sources. And remember Medicare or your insurance company will never ask for your Social Security number or your Medicare number to anyone calls you or to those adds you see on tv.

Answer: As for whether Medicare will ever become unsustainable, that's a question policymakers continue to address. Medicare is an important federal program, and Congress has historically made changes to help strengthen and preserve it. While discussions about Medicare's long-term financing continue, the program remains available to eligible beneficiaries today.

The most important thing for Medicare beneficiaries is to review their coverage each year. Plans, premiums, provider networks, and prescription drug coverage can change annually, and reviewing your options helps ensure your plan continues to meet your healthcare needs and budget.

If you have questions about your Medicare options, working with a licensed Medicare agent can help you understand the plans available in your area and make an informed decision.

Answer: I complete annual Medicare certification and carrier training, review updates from Medicare and the insurance companies I represent, and stay informed about changes that may affect my clients. I also review plan information each year so I can help clients understand their options during the Annual Enrollment Period.

My goal is to provide clear, accurate information so my clients can make informed decisions about their Medicare coverage and feel confident they've chosen a plan that fits their healthcare needs and budget.

Answer: "What I like most about being a Medicare agent is helping people take the confusion out of Medicare. There's a lot of information out there, and it can feel overwhelming. I enjoy sitting down with people, answering their questions, and helping them find coverage that fits their needs and budget. The best part is building relationships and being there for my clients long after they enroll."

Answer: "Most people can review and change their Medicare coverage once a year during the Annual Enrollment Period from October 15 through December 7. Some people may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to certain life events, and those already in a Medicare Advantage plan can make one additional change during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 through March 31."

Answer: "Choosing a Medicare plan is an important decision. A Medicare agent can help you understand your options, compare plans, and find coverage that fits your healthcare needs and budget—all at no additional cost to you."

Answer: Private insurers would still play an important role because they administer Medicare Advantage plans and often provide additional preventive benefits beyond what Original Medicare covers. If Medicare expanded preventive services, Medicare Advantage plans would likely incorporate those new benefits while continuing to compete by offering extras such as dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs, transportation, and wellness incentives. Private insurers could also develop new care management programs and digital health tools to help members stay healthier and reduce long-term healthcare costs.