Maureen Breslin, Medicare Insurance Broker
About Me
I have been a senior Tax Specialist for many years. Over the years many of my clients have been asking many questions about Medicare as they were very confused. I decided to learn more about it myself so I could help take some of the confusion and stress out of the process of getting Medicare. I enjoy helping others and being able to sign others up for Medicare gives me the knowledge that I am making their lives a little easier. I am committed to this and always get back to anyone who calls with a question in a timely way. Communication is very important to me. If I can help you, please contact me.
Q&A with Maureen Breslin
I went with Medigap because I travel a lot, but now I'm paying a fortune in premiums. Did I make a mistake?
Answer: you can check to see if there is a Medicare Advantage plan that is a PPO plan. Generally, they are cheaper and also allow you to travel. You can see any doctor. You are not restricted like you are with an HMO plan. Advantage plans also offer dental, hearing and vision coverage too.
What is the main benefit of Medicare Part D?
Answer: Medicare Part D is insurance for prescription drugs. Some Medicare Advantage plans include Part D coverage. If you have Original Medicare(parts A and Part B) then you can get Part D as a standalone plan for prescription drug coverage.
What's the deal with Medicare covering medical equipment like wheelchairs- do I need a special approval?
Answer: Medicare can cover wheelchairs as "durable medical equipment". You will probably need to see your doctor first to get a prescription and their authorization, though. Once you have the doctor's prescription, you can take it to any Medicare-enrolled supplier.
My diabetes medication is super expensive, and I've heard horror stories about Part D not covering what people need. Should I go standalone Part D or get it through a Medicare Advantage plan?
Answer: in 2026, no matter which plan you choose, your annual out-of-pocket costs for covered prescription drugs will be capped at $2,100.
Once you hit the $2,100 cap, you will not pay anything for covered prescriptions for the rest of the year.
If you use insulin, your out-of-pocket cost for a 1-month supply is capped at $35 in any plan.
Do I have to answer health questions when switching from one Supplemental/Medigap plan to another?
Answer: In most cases you will have to answer health questions.
Some states have their own rules, often called birthday rules, that allow you to change plans at any time or within a specific window around your birthday, regardless of your health.
I lost my Medicare Card. What do I do?
Answer: You can request a replacement online at Medicare.gov. You can print an official copy of your card from your online Medicare account or call 1-800-MEDICARE.
If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, you should call your plan provider directly to get a replacement card. It can take up to 30 days to receive a new card in the mail.
I need a hearing aid but I've heard Medicare doesn't cover them. Is there any way around this?
Answer: Certain Medicare plans offer an allowance for hearing aid. The amount is different with different companies. Other plans offer co-payments to help with the cost. Some bone anchored hearing aids may be covered under your Part B plan.
If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, your state's Medicaid program may provide coverage for hearing aids and services.
What are the reasons why I should work with a Medicare agent?
Answer: A Medicare insurance agent helps you understand and compare your Medicare options and enroll in the best coverage for you. You can find a Medicare plan on your own, but working with a Medicare advisor can save you time and money. There is no charge to you to work with a Medicare agent.
Isn't Medicare Advantage just private health insurance? What is the difference?
Answer: Medicare Advantage plans are a type of health coverage offered by private insurance companies under the Medicare program. They are different from "private insurance" because they are Medicare-approved and bundle your Part A (hospital), Part B (medical), and usually Part D (prescription drug) coverage into a single plan. However, they function similarly to private health insurance by often requiring the use of a provider network and potentially offering additional benefits like dental, vision, and hearing care not covered by Original Medicare. These plans are offered by private companies but must follow rules set by Medicare.