Robert Helmkamp II, Medicare Insurance Broker
About Me
I have been an Independent Medicare Broker for 5 years and I only write and maintain Medicare Advantage, Supplement, and Special Needs Plans. Since I am an independent broker it means I am not captive to one company, so my clients are able to view and choose plans across a variety medicare insurance companies. I am Contracted and Licensed with nearly all Medicare Carriers in AZ and while I write plans and manage clients all over Arizona, primarily my book of business is located here in Yavapai county or Northern Arizona. ALL OF MY SERVICES ARE FREE OF COST to enroll and have me as your agent, also we can view all your options and pick a plan best tailored to your needs. I live locally in Cottonwood and would love the opportunity to meet and answer your questions. If you have recently moved to the area, recently turned 65 or about to turn 65, are eligible for Medicare, or qualify for Medicaid/AHCCCS, then please give me a call or email. I am here to respond to all of your questions or concerns about Medicare and Medicare plans.
Q&A with Robert Helmkamp II
What advice would you give to seniors who are feeling overwhelmed by all the Medicare options available?
Answer: Medicare can be very complex and confusing, you can be new to Medicare and feel overwhelmed by all the terms, but even people on Medicare for years can still find themselves overwhelmed when looking at switching plans. This is why it is so important to work with a local Medicare agent or broker that is licensed and able to explain plan benefits and copays. Having a Medicare broker or agent should never cost you anything to be their client. If you decide to switch or enroll with one you may contact them with any questions you have on your plan, instead of calling a carrier yourself. ALLOW ONE INITIAL APPOINTMENT with an agent before contacting them with questions or concerns.
Who can help me figure out this Medicare "maze and alphabet soup" it's so confusing.
Answer: Always try to find a licensed Medicare Broker or Agent when looking at enrolling, changing plans, or for more information on copays/benefits. Meeting with them and possibly becoming their client does not cost you anything, we are paid directly by the companies. If you decide to enroll with one they will become your agent and you may contact them with future questions about your plan.
Is Medicare’s coverage for cataract surgery enough, or do seniors still face high out-of-pocket costs?
Answer: Original Medicare most times will cover cataract surgery if the cataract is affecting your vision or daily activities. If the surgery is approved, Medicare will cover removal of the cataract, implantation of a standard intraocular lens (IOL), and hospital stay if necessary. When considering Medicare plans, it is much cheaper to have a Medicare Advantage or Supplement Plan when it comes to in/out patient procedures, hospital stays, and doctor copays. With a Medicare Advantage you will have set copays for all doctor visits, er/hospital stays, out/in patient procedures, and added supplemental benefits not offered by Original Medicare like Dental, Vision, and Hearing. The out of Pocket Costs for a cataract surgery with just Original Medicare would be:
Coinsurance: Typically 20% of the Medicare-approved cost
Deductible: The annual deductible for Part B is currently $257 (2025)
Upgraded IOLs: Medicare does not cover the cost of more advanced or specialized IOLs