Alicia Hoilman, Medicare Insurance Broker

Answer: Medicare plans are not a one size fits all meaning Medigap plans aren't always the best option for everyone. It depends on many factors. Monthly Cost is typically the reason many people won't choose a Medicare Supplement or end up switching to a Medicare Advantage.

Answer: I love meeting new people and hearing their story. It is very rewarding to watch someone come in carrying stress from trying to figure out Medicare and their options but leave with that weight off their shoulders. I am so glad to be able to educate others so they feel confident in making decisions regarding their healthcare.

Answer: Your enrollment period is 3 months before your 65th birthday, the month of your birthday, and 3 months after your birthday. In order to receive coverage by the month of your 65th birthday, you must enroll before that month.

Answer: I think many people forget that referrals and pre-authorizations are not required with Original Medicare. This makes for an easier, more efficient way of doing business for the medical staff and the patient. It can eliminate a potential headache while anxiously waiting to see if you are approved to see a specific specialist you would like to see or have a surgery you were recommended to have. Less red tape makes for an easier use of your benefits.

Answer: Medicare just recently approved coverage for certain digital therapeutics for mental health treatment beginning January 1, 2025. Although it may still be limited, there are now digital mental health treatment devices that a physical can prescribe and Medicare will cover. This includes apps and software for treating anxiety, depression and insomnia.

Answer: Yes, that is something your agent should check before changing your plan. Sometimes, things do fall through the cracks and mistakes are made. Contact your agent to see if there is another SEP that can be used to change your plan again or if the mistake is caught in time, the application can be withdrawn.

Answer: The process is different based on your situation. I would recommend finding a local broker in your area and discussing your current situation and future plans such as retirement. The process is different for those still planning to work past 65 and keep an employer based plan.

Answer: I wish that people would not allow the media to scare them into thinking once on Medicare, their healthcare won't cover the things they need. Medicare along with a Med Sup and prescription drug plan or a Medicare Advantage plan often give people better coverage than they had before going on Medicare. Find a Broker and get the facts instead of trusting everything the media shouts out.

Answer: I believe adding a hospital indemnity plan may be a great solution to protect yourself from high copays for inpatient hospital stays and even ambulance copays. If approved for an indemnity plan, the cost are typically much lower than a Medicare Supplement and are often coupled with $0 premium Medicare Advantage Plan which is very affordable for those trying to stay within a specific budget yet still have peace of mind that a hospital stay will not hurt your wallet too much.

Answer: Absolutely! Guaranteed Issue rights protect you from being denied a Medicare Supplement plan—even after your Open Enrollment period has passed—as long as you meet certain conditions.

For instance, when you turn 65, you’re granted a 6-month Guaranteed Issue window to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan without any medical underwriting. During that time, you cannot be denied coverage.

There are also special circumstances that trigger these rights. Say you originally enrolled in a Medicare Supplement plan, then switched to a Medicare Advantage plan to test it out. If it’s been less than 12 months, you’re eligible to use the Trial Right Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to return to your original Supplement plan with Guaranteed Issue protection. Note: this option is available only once in your lifetime and only within that 12-month period.

Another scenario would be if your Medicare Advantage plan is discontinued in your area. In that case, you’re entitled to a Guaranteed Issue right to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan without having to go through medical underwriting. However, you must act within 63 days of your Advantage plan ending.

Your best next step? Connect with a knowledgeable local broker who can help you understand your rights and explore your coverage options. They’ll make sure you don’t miss a beat.

Answer: If you are already a Medicare beneficiary, then October starts the Annual Enrollment period which allows you the opportunity to shop around and see what plans are available for the upcoming year. If you are turning 65, definitely start looking 3 months before your 65th birthday which starts your initial enrollment period.

Answer: Having a local broker is one of the best ways to stay on top of changes. They can research for you and normally receive the updates and changes from the insurance companies. They often hold seminars to communicate these changes annually and would be just a phone call away or a visit to their office to discuss your specific plan.

Answer: If you are on Medicare, then absolutely, mental health support is covered.

If you are not on Medicare yet, there can be resources and benefits available for caregivers to check out but do vary based on where you are located.

1. Eldercare Locator -this would be a first step which helps connect you with local agencies

1-800-677-1116

2. Area Agencies on Aging - offers counseling, training and respite care. Find your local office online or through Eldercare.

3. State-funded support programs that offer financial assistance and services to family caregivers. This would need to be researched online based on your state.

4. Medicaid programs - Based on where you live, these programs may allow family caregivers to be paid for their services and receive training.

5. Community based organizations - Search online or find through Eldercare. There may be churches in your area that will have support groups that meet on a regular basis and provide a wealth of knowledge and support.