Kyra Baldwin, Medicare Insurance Agent

Answer: You are only eligible for Medicare if:

1. You turn 65

2. Have been on disability for 2 consecutive years.

3. Have Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS) or End-stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

Answer: Medicare Part B covers in full some of your most popular vaccines such as, COVID-19, Hepatitis B, Pneumonia, and Flu. Other vaccines can be covered by Part D with varying costs.

Answer: Medigap plans do not work off of a network. As long as the provider participates with Original Medicare, then you can see them.

Answer: If you are coming up on your 65th birthday, we recommend starting the process 3 months in advance. If you are already on Medicare, then of course the Annual Open Enrollment every year is a great time to review your benefits yearly from Oct. 15th - Dec.7th.

Answer: If checking yourself, you can go to the Carriers website and search providers from there. However, it is recommended to use an agent to help with this. If you provide them with the list of current doctors they can make sure you find a plan that participates with them.

Answer: That whether they choose a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Supplement, they will have to continue paying their Part B premium.

Answer: Typically, HMO plans only cover services provided in-network, so unless stated otherwise, it is not advised to see providers out of network.

Answer: One of the biggest frustrations is that the entire Medicare process can be very confusing, and on top of that, you have misinformation out there that can confuse our clients even more. So, we try to do our best to educate first, then help them make the best decisions for their needs.

Answer: This is a great question. You are not locked into your current plan simply because it was your initial choice. You have an opportunity to review your options and find a more suitable plan for your changing needs every year during AEP. The Annual Enrollment Period runs every year from October 15th to December 7th where you can switch plans. Any changes made will take effect January 1st.

Answer: Being able to simplify a confusing and stressful process and relieve seniors of that stress is incredibly rewarding.

Answer: In short, yes, Medicare Advantage plans and coverage are going to vary state to state. So, it's important to know the rules of the state you reside.

Answer: If you deferred signing up for Part B until retirement, than you will have an 8-month Special Enrollment Period that begins when you stop working or lose coverage. However, to avoid gaps in coverage, you will want to sign up for Medicare prior to your end date.

Answer: Yes, also known as a Medigap plan. These types of plans come secondary to your Original Medicare (Parts A & B) in order to help cover the gaps Original Medicare leaves you with.

Answer: I like to make sure those who are new to Medicare understand exactly how the enrollment process works, what important dates they need to keep in mind, and potential penalties, as well as what resources are available to them.

Whether someone is new to Medicare or just switching plans, I review their options and make sure the plans I'm recommending meet each individual's specific needs.

Answer: That it's important to understand what your prescriptions may cost not only month to month, but over the entire year. An agent can walk you through choosing a plan by checking your current medications and making sure your doctors participate with the plan, helping you avoid surprises in the future.

Answer: As an agent, it is our job is to make sure you clearly understand your options. We’re trained to know what to look for and how to guide you toward the insurance choices that will best fit your specific needs. We make the process simple, saving you time and stress!