Melody Manthey, Medicare Insurance Broker
Melody Manthey
Medicare Broker Licensed in IA, MN, ND, NE, SD and WI
6+ Years of Experience
Contact Details
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Location
Rosemount, MN
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Phone
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Website
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Melody Can Help With:
About Me
My name is Melody and I am an independent health agent, specializing in educating people about Medicare. My goal is to make the process easier to understand and help people feel confident in their plan selections. I also provide ongoing support as individuals' needs change.
I look forward to connecting with you and becoming your new friend in the Medicare business.
Q&A with Melody Manthey
Why might Original Medicare with a Part D plan be better than a Medicare Advantage plan for frequent travelers?
Answer: Original Medicare with a Part D plan is a great option for people who travel within the US because Medicare is accepted at most hospitals and clinics. It would also be wise to purchase a supplement plan, because Original Medicare does not have a Maximum Out of Pocket.
Medicare Advantage plans can also work for people who travel frequently within the US. However, Medicare Advantage plans are subject to a provider network, which varies greatly from plan to plan. Travelers who have a Medicare Advantage plan should research their plan’s travel benefits and network providers when they are planning a trip to confirm where they can get care near their destination.
What's one piece of advice you wish every senior knew before picking a Medicare plan?
Answer: Medicare plans are not a one size fits all. What works for your friend, family member, or neighbor may not be a good fit for you. Some people also qualify for additional programs and benefits based upon their income. These plans are not available to everyone. As a professional, I make recommendations based on your individual needs.
What is the biggest mistake seniors make when enrolling in Medicare?
Answer: The biggest mistake seniors make when enrolling in Medicare is basing plan decisions on the input of friends or family. Medicare is complex and plans and vary by location. Medicare is like a puzzle and each person’s unique puzzle pieces should be evaluated carefully to ensure they fit together in the appropriate plan.
Friends and family mean well when they offer advice. However, unless they have the same budget, doctors, medications, medical conditions, travel habits, and other health needs, offering specific plan advice could potentially be harmful.
It is best to consult with an agent or broker to find coverage that will meet all of your individual needs.
I'm turning 65 in three months but still working with employer coverage. Do I need to sign up for Medicare right now or can I wait?
Answer: The answer to this question is dependent on several factors. The size of your employer and whether or not the employer coverage is deemed creditable for Medicare parts B and D have significant impact as to whether or not you should start Medicare at 65. There are also additional considerations if you are contributing to a Health Savings Account.
This question is ultimately best answered by meeting with a Medicare professional to discuss your individual circumstances and follow up with your employer benefits department.
I chose Original Medicare to keep my doctors, but now I'm drowning in bills. Should I have gone with Advantage instead?
Answer: Medicare Advantage is one option to supplement Original Medicare. Fortunately, in the markets I work in there are options available with strong networks that allow beneficiaries to continue to see many providers in multiple medical groups. Medicare Supplement plans, also commonly called Medigap plans are a second option to protect Medicare beneficiaries from high out-of-pocket costs. I would be happy to discuss both options to see which one is the best solution for you.
What do you like most about being a Medicare agent?
Answer: My favorite part about being a Medicare agent is connecting with clients. I meet a lot of really great people and I enjoy getting to know them as I help them through the Medicare process.