Philip Santucci, Medicare Insurance Broker

Answer: Every agent is paid a commission from the carrier they place the client with. Every carrier commission will vary however Advantage plan carriers are all the same for the most part. Brokers will have the ability to shop multiple options and captive agents will only have their own singular carrier as an option to offer.

Answer: Medicare supplements do having underwriting requirements. The only time this will not be a concern is when you initially sign up for Medicare and when there are special circumstance such as the birthday rule. Supplements are great plans knowing how and when to get one is best when assisted by a Medicare Advisor.

Answer: Advantage plans work based on networks. Each carrier has a different network make up and might no be available in all areas. When moving to a rural area the current plan may be out of network. When moving you want to check and see what your plan network looks like in your new home area.

Answer: Medicare seminars are marketing tools Medicare Advisors use to gain clients absolutely. However the event it self can only be educational in nature and can not have any sales materials or pitches involved. Prospects can sign up to set up appointments but the event is only to provide education to be able to sit down with clients in the near future. They are good events if the Advisor is well versed in Medicare and able to keep things simple.

Answer: CMS allows carriers to do advertising within certain guidelines. The same for Agents doing their own marketing to gain clients. In recent years the rules are changing on both sides and should provide a little relief to Medicare recipients. I usually tell people to search out your own agent and ask for a referral from someone you trust. Always meet your advisor in person as well I always do and people feel more comfortable with the information.

Answer: The best way to do so is to talk to a Medicare certified agent. Not only will you have a side by side comparison to see but also understand what you already have and if you are getting everything out of it. A good agent will show you all the parts of the plans and things you have or may not.

Answer: The difference is simple a broker has access to multiple carriers and multiple product options. An agent is usually captive meaning they only offer one carrier and can only offer that carriers products.

Answer: Medicare advantage plans are becoming a popular choice for consumers. The numbers are still about 50% for Advantage and 50% for Supplements. Both are great options but at the end of the day what will matter is what will work with each individual situation.

Answer: The simple answer is yes they will be covered. There are factors such as do you currently have your part B coverage. That will make a difference in how things are taken care of for you.

Answer: Many times it is asking for personal info over the phone with no conversation on plans or companies. Being rushed through a phone call can also be a red flag. Someone saying it will take 15 minutes and really does not good.

Answer: You meet new and interesting people all of the time with some amazing stories to share about their life experiences.

Answer: Usually the biggest mistake is trying to do it themselves and not truly understanding what they are getting into. There is not cost to sit down with a broker who can help you and make sure all the angles are looked at.

Answer: Go through everything step by step. How to enroll, what all the letters mean, costs, options, plans and how your health plays a role. Taking a simple approach and giving easy to understand information.

Answer: This depends on the type of plan you have. If it is a supplement your can change at any time but you have to health qualify for the new one. If it is an Advantage plan you can change once a year in October.

Answer: Working with an agent can save you time and headache. They are trained and licensed to understand the moving parts of Medicare which can be confusing. They also can look for the best options for you so you do not have to.

Answer: This is best discussed with an Agent or Broker to better understand your situation and give you the right answer.

Answer: After your initial enrollment you will have to answer health questions. Each carrier will have a different appetite so best to work with a knowledgeable broker who can find the best fit for you.

Answer: You can try to go to Medicare directly long process and cumbersome. You can try to ask the carrier for assistance some will help. You can also ask your agent if they may be able to assist or lead you in the right direction.

Answer: You can most definitely meet with multiple however be sure to vet each one. Not all agents do the same things or have the same access. You will also want to look for someone with at least 5 years experience as well. You can research before hand then save time and meet with the one that matches you best.

Answer: Medicare plans are mainly US service based however there are plans that will have some international coverage. Most of the plans with coverage are Medicare supplements.

Answer: Health care costs continue to rise and will most likely do so for the foreseeable future. However proper planning can help alleviate financial burden and strain.

Answer: Being able to help clients better understand their benefits and how to maximize them. They can then worry less and enjoy the good years more.