Nicole Creamer, Medicare Insurance Broker
About Me
I began my insurance career at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska, leaving in 2023 after 25 years of service. I built my industry knowledge selling and supporting individual products, including Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplements, Individual health and short-term plans, Long-term care, and Medicare Part D. I am a veteran of the implementations of Medicare Part D in 2007 and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2013 and enjoy the challenge of an ever-changing market and serving clients.
I am a lifelong Nebraska resident and graduate of Bellevue University with a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management, a Master of Science in Leadership and Executive Coaching, and a Doctorate of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership at Creighton University.
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Q&A with Nicole Creamer
What's one piece of advice you wish every senior knew before picking a Medicare plan?
Answer: Medicare is complex and learning new terms, understanding the differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans is not easy and is okay to ask "dumb" questions, this is the only way to learn. As a Medicare plan specialist, I have 27 years of experience in the field, but I remember the enormous learning curve when I got started. Ask questions so you feel you are making an informed decision in your plan and benefits. It is your health and well-being that is important, and understanding your medical benefits is vital should you have a catastrophic health experience.
How do you educate clients who are completely new to Medicare?
Answer: As a Medicare Specialist, I like to provide clients with easy-to-understand information about Medicare, including Parts A, B, C, D, and Medicare Supplements, taking the confusion out of the transition into Medicare. An educated client is a happy client, and providing them with the information they need to make an informed decision is vital.
What additional coverage options are available for international travelers?
Answer: Medicare offers limited coverage when traveling abroad, usually around $50,000 maximum benefit, leaving members to pay the claim in advance and obtain a reimbursement when they come home. I have a carrier that provides international medical travel coverage, taking the worry away when traveling abroad. With up to 1 million in benefits, a service team to handle communication barriers, and the ability to pay the claim for members strengthens peace of mind when traveling. Travel medical coverage is trip-specific, taking into consideration the member and the time they are traveling, making it an affordable option.
Can I switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Supplemental/Medigap plan during the Annual Enrollment Period without answering health questions?
Answer: The short answer is no. However, there are always exceptions such as a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to make a change or within your 12-month trial right period, or you are involuntarily terminated from your Medicare Advantage plan due to moving out of the plan service area, gaining eligibility due to age (turning 65), to name a few. In these cases, I want to discuss the change and ensure we cover all available SEP options.