Melanie Blackston, Medicare Insurance Broker

Answer: As a broker, I have the ability to truly dig into Medicare plans that best fits my clients needs. I have a passion to be an advocate for the Senior Community.

Answer: No, you will just need to delay your Part B and you will need to make sure you have credible medical coverage with prescription benefits as well.

Answer: It's a set time period when you can apply that guarantees you'll get coverage and you may get a better price on your Medicare supplement plan. You are generally eligible to enroll in Medicare Part B within a 7-month period, starting 3 months before and ending 3 months after the month you turn 65.

Answer: It is unlikely Medicare would implement a system based on lifestyle as many factors would have to be considered. In the current form due to potential inequities and practical challenges the current Medicare system largely bases premiums on income.

Answer: When they ask for your Medicare number or to tell you they need to confirm your Medicare number but ask you to give it to them. When they tell you about big extra benefits you can get with nothing to back it up in regards to your health, medication or doctors.

Answer: Yes, If you sign up for a Medicare advantage plan most do offer some type of annual hearing benefit in your plan at no cost.

Answer: You can, but generally only under special circumstances that qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period-SEP.

Answer: Yes, Loss of your employer health insurance is considered a qualifying life event that will trigger a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to enroll in a new health insurance plan outside of the regular Open Enrollment Period.

Answer: Having life insurance can take a burden away when you pass. It provides a death benefit that can be used to cover financial needs of the beneficiaries. It is mainly used for funeral expenses, but is also used for debt and everyday living expenses.

Answer: You will need to call your insurance companies customer service and check the specific deductible, co-pays and benefits of your plan for your procedure.

Answer: Medicare supplement plans like Plan G, offer more comprehensive coverage. It can include coverage for Part B excess charges and possibly lower premiums compared to traditional plans. Med Supp plans have higher premiums and increase annually with your age.

Answer: Medicare Part C your out-of-pocket costs for inpatient hospital care are different from Original Medicare Part A. Part A has a deductible of $1,676 for each benefit period. Advantage Plans usually have a copay of $300-350 per day for the first 5-7 days, and then a different cost for additional days, which could be zero The exact cost-sharing for MA plans vary by plan. Make sure to check your plan's specific coverage and cost information.

Answer: When you move you have up to 4 months to notify Medicare, the month before you move and up to 2 months after your move, however the sooner the better. Not only do you notify Medicare, you update Social Security and your Insurance Company. Look into new plans in your new area with your current broker as they also may be licensed in the state you have moved to. Get enrolled into the plan quickly and find new doctors and medical facilities in the networks. Also do not forget to request a transfer on your medical records.

Answer: The biggest mistake seniors make when enrolling in Medicare is they miss the initial enrollment period and incur late enrollment penalties. Many seniors also fail to properly research their options in plans and benefits, which can lead to choosing plans that don't fully cover their needs or cost more than necessary.

Answer: Seniors often think that Medicare covers all long-term care costs, mainly nursing home care and assisted living. However, Medicare mainly focuses on acute care and short-term skilled nursing care after their hospital stay. It generally does not cover the long-term, custodial care needed for activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.

Answer: Medicare agents bring a lot of one on one and face to face to the table to help Seniors. They are very familiar with the local hospital systems, doctors networks as well as pharmacies. You don't have to call a 1-800 call center as you have your personal dedicated agent to take care of you.