Kim Kirsch, Medicare Insurance Broker

Answer: Medicare is such a confusing thing. Most people don't understand what they need to do and/or why? Being able to help people who are going into Medicare or who have been in and need help navigate through the complexities simply makes me feel happy. The best comment from clients is "well that wasn't as hard as I though." When I hear that, I'm happy!

Answer: A Medicare Advantage PPO plan offers beneficiaries the ability to use their plan pretty much everywhere, making it a great option for those who like to travel to other states, or who think they might really enjoy doing so during their retirement. In addition a PPO does not require a referral from a primary care physician. If there is a specialist that a beneficiary wants to see, they simply make their appointment with the specialist.

With an HMO, beneficiaries need to declare a primary care physician and stick with them. They need referrals when the need comes for a specialist, and they typically don't cross state lines.

Answer: Well, as a broker I am not really allow to provide that information. Medicare beneficiaries are to choose the one that they feel is best for them depending on the information given from the brokers.

Answer: As a broker, I am to help clients with their Medicare needs. Unfortunately, we are not privy to the information on what Medicare will cover in the future. CMS would likely be the one to contact for that.

Answer: In this situation, an HMO might be best because these doctors usually speak with other and will make sure that there isn't a mix of medications being offered, in the talk therapy therapist should want to prescribe something. It's important that the beneficiary be honest with both of these professionals so that there is not a mix up happening. Keep in mind that Talk therapy usually uses some sort of telemedicine and not an office visit.

Answer: It would seem likely that Medicare Advantage would start offering more digital health tools by 2030 simply because, like any other business, they need to keep up with the times as well. As the younger population ages, there will be more tech-savvy individuals aging into Medicare.

Answer: As a broker, I don't get into politics much because my job is make sure everyone has the right plan, regardless if they are a minority or not. With that being said, brokers need more access to to minorities so we can help them.

Answer: Some Medicare Advantage plans, specifically PPOs will provide coverage outside of the US. There are limits though, like some are 80/20 plans, so check with the specific plan you are considering before making your choice.

Answer: Every senior needs to know that they are in charge of picking their plan. No broker or agent should force, guilt trip, and guide a beneficiary toward any product or set of products. Our job is to educate and present the options. The senior chooses their plan.

Answer: Medicare beneficiaries always need life insurance. Medicare is medical insurance and life insurance is not. So, you should retain your life insurance policies if you have them. If you don't, you should seek out at least a final expense plan.

Answer: Part B always has a monthly premium unless you signed up for an MAPD plan that pays part or all of that premium for you. These plans are not available in every zip code, so it's important to engage with a broker who cares and will guide you to the right decision.