Maggie Flynn, Medicare Insurance Broker

About Me

I am a Putnam county native who now lives in Duchess County. My college years were at SJU in Philadelphia where I met my husband, Bill. We have been married for 34 years and have raised two wonderful sons.

In my free time I love to garden, travel, exercise, read and cook. I was active with the Master Gardening program for several years. Native plants are a passion of mine.

Alzheimer's is a personal cause for me. My mother and MIL both struggle with this heartbreaking disease.

I take pride in helping seniors understand their options and make sure they have the best fit.

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Q&A with Maggie Flynn

What are some ways to save on prescription drug costs?

Answer: Discuss your concerns with your doctor. Are there alternate drugs that you could take that are a lower tier? Is there a generic form that would work for you?

Just because you have a drug plan through your carrier does not mean you can't purchase your drugs through other venues. Have your pharmacist check for coupons and also look on sites like Good Rx.

Many states have prescription drug plan programs to help with costs that complement your Part D coverage. These are usually based on income and can be quite helpful. Ask an agent if your state has a program and what it entails.

How can I save money on my Medicare Supplement?

Answer: First, have an agent or yourself look at plan options. F and G are typically the most expensive. Also, which carrier are you using? Prices differ dramatically across carriers. Also, Medicare Advantage plans offer much lower premiums and great coverage. Look at both and see what you really need for your circumstances. The vast majority of my customers in Medicare Advantage are extremely happy with their plans.

I signed up for a Medicare Advantage HMO, and I'm wondering if I can see a cardiologist out of network without paying everything myself.

Answer: If there are cardiologists in network near you then the answer is no. In rare circumstances, a plan may allow out of network specialists if that doctor is the only provider in your area.

In general, when you sign up for an HMO, you should be prepared to stay in network or pay ourt of pocket for out of network.

Does Medicare fully cover nursing home care, and are there alternatives?

Answer: Medicare does not cover long term care. The ways you can pay for long term care are; out of savings, Medicaid (if you qualify), long term care insurance, and life insurance policies that have a rider that pays out in the event of needing long term care. Be aware that the majority of nursing homes do not accept Medicaid either.

Is it better to get Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage?

Answer: I feel a Medicare Advantage plan is a better choice than just a pdp plan. Why? The monthly premium on a pdp plan will be more than the cost of a Mapd plan in most circumstances. Also, the Medicare Advantage plan caps your medical liability. It also gives you added benefits; dental, vision, hearing and fitness options.