Michele Vina, Medicare Insurance Broker
About Me
For years, Michele has been advising folks just like you on how to navigate the mysteries of Medicare. Many past employees of major corporations have gone to Michele for her expertise in transitioning from group and individual health plans to Medicare.
Michele Vina resides Fort Worth, Texas and takes pride in serving the local and surrounding communities in her unparalleled approach to Medicare education and simplification.
Q&A with Michele Vina
Answer: Because Medicare is complicated, I find most people understand better having an in person conversation and seeing their options right in front of them.
Answer: Most often, prescription medications can be a complicated issue for my clients. However, I'm able to help them find the best coverage for the lowest cost. There are plenty of options beyond traditional Part D plans.
Answer: No, if you have been on an Advantage plan for more than one year you will have to pass medical questions to be insured by a Medigap company.
Answer: I love helping people!! Medicare can be confusing and overwhelming for many people. I love to educate people on their choices and find them the best plan possible!
Answer: Right now, the Medicare population is split about 50/50 between Original Medicare with a supplement and Medicare Advantage. I find that ratio to hold true with my clients as well. There is no right or wrong answer, they are just different ways to receive your Medicare benefits with different pros and cons.
Answer: Generally speaking, Medicare coverage is only in the US. However, your Medicare supplement or Advantage plan will provide emergency medical coverage overseas if necessary.
Answer: The best way to research Medicare Part D plans is at Medicare.gov. However, brokers like myself often have tips and tricks to save even more when it comes to prescription coverage.
Answer: The only way to save money on a Medicare supplement is to switch the company you use. However, if you have had the supplement for more than 6 months, you will have to pass health questions in order to qualify with a different company. The other option is to move to Medicare Advantage without a premium.
Answer: Although the plan may not require a referral to see a specialist, some doctor's offices may request one.
Answer: Medicare Advantage plans are "free" in the sense that they do not have a monthly premium. However, they are co-pay based. You pay co-pays for each service received up to a maximum out of pocket between $3,000 to $8,000 per year depending on the plan. They do include the extras like dental, vision, and gym membership for no charge.
Answer: That's the million-dollar question!! There is no right or wrong answer, it depends on what is important to you in your health plan. If you want no networks but are willing to pay more for it, than Original Medicare with a supplement and drug plan might be best. However, if keeping monthly cost low and getting additional perks like dental included, you might like a Medicare Advantage plan. I have clients on both sides and as long as they are educated (which I do) about the differences and know why they choose a particular plan, they are usually quite satisfied.