Michael Andrews, Medicare Insurance Broker
Michael Andrews
MediMike Insurance
Medicare Broker Licensed in CT
5+ Years of Experience
Contact Details
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Location
Wethersfield, CT
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Phone
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Website
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About Me
Thank you for considering me to help you through your Medicare journey! My experience as not only a licensed insurance agent but as a Registered Nurse allows me to have a different perspective and understanding on healthcare needs of Medicare beneficiaries. I always vow to help and guide you from starting Medicare to continuing to help as the years go by so that way you always make an informed decision and find a plan option that fits your needs and preference. I am available either over the phone or in person to help you. Looking forward to hearing from you soon!
Q&A with Michael Andrews
What benefits are there to working with a Medicare Agent near me vs remote/virtual?
Answer: Local agents tend to be more familiar with their state's doctor and hospital networks which can be very helpful when reviewing Medicare plan options.
How do you educate clients who are completely new to Medicare?
Answer: I personally like to physically draw out the A, B, C, D's of Medicare on paper to help create an understanding of part A and B as well as the additional options you have. I educate on all the available options specific to my client's needs so that way I help empower them to make a properly informed decision.
What is the biggest disadvantage of Medicare Advantage?
Answer: In my opinion, the biggest disadvantage of the Medicare Advantage plans is the ability for doctors and hospital networks to undergo contract negotiations which may leave the client out of network for the rest of the year.
What is the biggest mistake seniors make when enrolling in Medicare?
Answer: The biggest mistake I've seen is a beneficiary applying for part B retiring after 65 without submitting the correct forms that will prevent late enrollment penalties. It is important to begin the application process with social security 3 months prior to needing your part B to start.
I'm turning 65 next month; what are the first steps I should take regarding Medicare enrollment?
Answer: First find out if enrolling into Medicare is the best thing to do. If you have a younger spouse or child on your insurance or if you plan to keep working, you may not want to enroll into Medicare yet. If you need to enroll into Medicare, you can through ssa.gov or call your local social security office to make an appointment.
Does Medicare Advantage cover acupuncture or alternative therapies in some plans?
Answer: Yes some do! There are plans depending on where you live that may offer alternative therapies such as chiropractic and acupuncture. It is important to keep in mind that you can only use alternative providers that have a contract with the insurance company of your plan.
Why do so many seniors wait until the last minute to enroll in Medicare, and how can agents help prevent bad decisions?
Answer: Some people wait because they think they will automatically enroll into Medicare without having to do anything. Automatic enrollment occurs only if you are already collecting social security retirement income. It is recommended that you meet with a local expert that can help you create a Medicare gameplan so that way it is a much smoother process.
I have severe rheumatoid arthritis and my biologic medication costs $6,000 per month. How will the 2025 Medicare Part D changes affect someone in my situation?
Answer: If you have a prescription drug plan either through a Medicare Advantage plan or a stand alone part D plan, the most you will be responsible for is $2,000 out of pocket for the year as long as your prescriptions are in the formulary of the plan.
What's a red flag in a phone call that it might be a Medicare scam targeting my personal info?
Answer: The major red flag is if the caller asks for your Medicare number fairly quickly into the call. The first questions should be about your doctors and prescriptions as well as questions about the coverage you are seeking. Working with a local broker in your community is always a great option.
Can Medicare pay for my groceries?
Answer: There are some Medicare Advantage plans that may offer food card benefits, however, these are usually found with Special Needs Plans and not all Medicare beneficiaries qualify. Original Medicare does not cover groceries or other related products such as over the counter benefits.