Shannon Brenneke, Medicare Insurance Agent
About Me
Hi, my name is Shannon, and I am your local Medicare Advisor. I have specialized in the Medicare Industry since 2003, and am devoted to helping you find the best plan that matches your specific needs and financial situation. I will take care of the daunting task of comparing plans from well-known national and local companies for you. Even better, my services are completely free! Contact me today to explore your Medicare options, and be sure to mention that you found me on Medicare Agents Hub!
Q&A with Shannon Brenneke
What are the reasons why I should work with a Medicare agent?
Answer: I always suggest working with a licensed Medicare Agent in your area as they have training specific to your location, and expertise on the best options to fit your needs.
Are Medicare Advantage plans really "free," or is that just clever marketing?
Answer: Medicare Advantage plans have a $0 premium cost to clients as they received funds from the Federal Government when you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. The Government provides these funds to the insurance company in return for the Insurance company taking over the full administration of your Medicare A&B benefits.
If I have been on disabilty due to an accident, do I qualify for Medicare Insurance?
Answer: If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you typically become eligible for Medicare after 24 months of receiving those benefits.
Can I use a health savings account (HSA) to pay Medicare premiums after I retire?
Answer: You can use the HSA funds to pay for your Part A, B and/or D premiums. You may not pay for a Medicare Supplement premium with your HSAfunds.
How do you approach educating clients who are new to Medicare versus those who are considering switching plans?
Answer: I have a handout that explains how and when to enroll in Medicare A&B, and also explains the differences between Med Supp and Med Advantage. I use this during meetings and make notes for them as we go regarding each subject, on their handout.
Why do some clients ignore your advice and end up in bad Medicare plans-what makes them resistant?
Answer: Some clients are easily persuaded by family/friends advise. Unfortunately, the advise typically is unfounded, and those advising are basing their knowledge of Medicare from Facebook and TV advertisement which does not explain full details to make an educated decision.
My Medicare Advantage plan covers dental, but I can't find a dentist who accepts it. Is this a common problem?
Answer: Many dentists do not contract directly with insurance companies, however, if your plan is a PPO plan, you should still be able to utilize those dentists. Be sure to ask your dentist if they will still file the claim for you, even if they are not in the network, so you can utilize the plan benefits.
I have Original Medicare, a Medigap Plan G, and a Part D plan, but I'm still facing high costs for my specialty medication. What options exist for someone in my situation?
Answer: You could add on a Hospital Indemnity policy which will assist with paying you directly for some of the out of pocket expenses you incur. There are many options you can add on such as Cancer, Accident, Critical Care, etc for typically a low cost.