Michael Denniston, Medicare Insurance Agent
About Me
Hi, my name is Michael, and I am your local Independent Medicare insurance agent. Medicare is my specialty; I am dedicated to helping you find the best plan that fits your specific needs and budget. I will take on the task of searching through plans from nationally and locally recognized companies so that you don't have to. Best of all, my services are provided at no cost to you. Get in touch with me today at 888-589-4403 to explore your Medicare insurance options. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Be sure to mention that you found me on Medicare Agents Hub!
Q&A with Michael Denniston
What benefits are there to working with a Medicare Agent near me vs remote/virtual?
Answer: An agent in the area should know all the plans available in that area, pros and cons. However virtual appointments are good to with an experienced agent that is an independent broker.
How do you educate clients who are completely new to Medicare?
Answer: The first thing to know is the basics of original Medicare. Explain part A explain part B and why a person may want or need a Medicare Drug approved plan. Explain the importance of enrollment periods. Lay out the difference between Medicare Supplement Plans and the very popular Medicare Advantage plans. Then we weigh out the pros and cons of each way to receive your Medicare coverage based on your needs now.
Do Medicare Advantage plans really save seniors money in the long run? Why or why not?
Answer: Yes I believe Medicare Advantage plans can save a Medicare beneficiary a lot of money, especially if a catastrophic event occurs. Medicare Advantage plans are required to have a maximum out of pocket each year. Original Medicare has no maximun out of pocket. Medicare Advantage plans can also provide a credible drug plan at no additional cost. Many Advantage plans offer extra benefits and savings on things original Medicare does not cover, like a little dental, vision and free gym membership in some cases. There are many very good reasons to enroll in Medicare Advantage also known as part C. Medicare Advantage plans very from zip code to zip code, county to county and state to state. I think it is important to talk with a very experience Medicare plan expert that is independent. Got questions call or email today for a free analysis and quote.
I'm considering genetic testing to assess my cancer risk based on family history. Will Medicare cover this preventive approach in my situation?
Answer: Medicare will cover genetic testing if a beneficiary is having symptoms of chronic illnesses or is at a genetic risk to get a chronic illness or disease. Should be requested by your doctor.
I've been diagnosed with bipolar disorder at age 66. How should I structure my Medicare coverage to ensure I get the mental health care I need?
Answer: Medicare does cover mental illness treatment and counseling. Outpatient counseling and inpatient are available; the maximum inpatient coverage is for 180 days in a lifetime. If you are looking into Medicare Advantage plans, you should ensure that mental illness and psychiatry is included, with the providers you prefer. It is important that you or your agent look at the providers networks to make sure you are covered with the participating Dr.'s and facilities. Do your homework, due diligence before you enroll in any plan.
Does Medicare cover eye exams, or are seniors left paying too much?
Answer: Medicare covers eye exams by ophthalmologists to diagnose, treat and detect, eye disease, and overall eye health. Optometry is not covered by Medicare. Optometry is for glasses; optometry is not covered by original Medicare. Some Medicare Advantage Plans cover optometry (glasses) as an extra benefit. The Medicare Advantage Plans differ from state-to-state, zip code to zip code and county to county. Be sure and talk with your agent about this in advance of enrolling in any plan. You can also get supplemental policies to cover dental and vision.
For Medicare Part D, why would someone pick a plan with a high total cost?
Answer: By picking a plan with high monthly premiums you may be able to cut your overall cost by reducing copayments and deductibles. It is best to go over your formulary (list of prescriptions taken) and find out what is the most inclusive and best overall coverage and cost each year. As your prescription coverage changes you may want to change plans accordingly during the AEP (Annual Enrollment Period) each year.
If a senior is turning 65 but still working, should they enroll in Medicare or delay it?
Answer: Normally you will be enrolled in part A (hospital Coverage) automatically when you turn 65. With part B you can opt out if you have a credible coverage plan offered by your employer. If the employer plan is what is considered credible coverage and cost less the part B premium of Medicare, you may want to stay on your employer plan. You should check with your HR to be sure what would be best for you individually. You can enroll in part B when you leave your employer and go onto Medicare A and B. You may find that your employer plan does not cover you as well Medicare plans. You should compare based on your needs.
I live in California but might move to another state next year. How will my Medicare coverage change if I relocate?
Answer: Medicare is accepted anywhere in country by Doctors and Facilities that accept Medicare. You want, Medicare and Social Security to have your correct address always of course. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan you will need to find a plan thats available in that region. You have 60 days to update your plan in the new region. If you have Medicare and a Medicare Supplement there is no need to change plans. Just update your address with the carrier. For more details call.
Can I switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to Original Medicare with a Medigap plan mid-year if I’m diagnosed with a serious illness?
Answer: The answer to this question is, if it is your first year in a Medicare Advantage plan, the year you turn 65, the answer is yes. After the first year in most states, the answer is no. After the first year IEP (initial enrollment period), you would wait until October 15th to fill out the application so you are underwritten. Once under writing takes place, you will be accepted or not. Depending on your medical history. During your IEP, you have guaranteed acceptance. This is the only time there is no underwriting required, the first year on Medicare.