Skye Edwards, Medicare Insurance Agent
Skye Edwards
Medicare Agent Licensed in TX
5+ Years of Experience
Contact Details
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Location
Fort Worth, TX
Skye Can Help With:
About Me
Hi, my name is Skye and I am your local Medicare insurance agent. Medicare is my specialty and I am dedicated to helping you find the best plan that fits your specific needs and budget. I will take on the task of searching through plans from nationally and locally recognized companies so that you don't have to. Best of all, my services come at no cost to you. Get in touch with me today to explore your Medicare insurance options. Be sure to mention that you found me on Medicare Agents Hub!
Q&A with Skye Edwards
Do I need to do anything for Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)?
Answer: Yes. Always, Always Always, review your current plan info and compare it to the other plans that are available. Plans change every year and it is imperative that you review your plan so that you are not stuck on something that isn't good for you anymore.
Why is the new $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum for drug costs important?
Answer: Previously, the out of pocket maximum was $8000, this is significant savings for many people.
However, it also imposes a significant burden on insurance companies. Which affects other costs of the plans, including: premiums, copayment, coinsurance. Many beneficiaries will see increased costs in other areas due to the changes in Prescription Drug Coverage.
My Advantage plan says I need a referral just to see a dermatologist. I thought PPOs didn't require that - was I wrong?
Answer: PPO's don't require referrals most of the time. However, there are certain services that require prior authorization. There are also certain doctors that may require referrals, regardless of insurance requirements.
How do I compare Part D plans to minimize costs for a mix of generic and specialty drugs?
Answer: The best way to compare is by speaking with a broker, or by reviewing your plan options through Medicare.gov
Why do so many seniors wait until the last minute to enroll in Medicare, and how can agents help prevent bad decisions?
Answer: Many seniors wait until the last minute because they dread the thought of enrollment. Agents can help prevent bad decisions by educating others often and early. The more a beneficiary knows before they sign up, the better decisions they will make.
Is Medicare's coverage for cataract surgery enough, or do seniors still face high out-of-pocket costs?
Answer: Cataract surgeries are covered by Medicare, however, most lens replacements are not. Many people still face high out-of-pocket costs because they aren't aware of the lenses being different than the surgery.
Can I switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Supplemental/Medigap plan during the Annual Enrollment Period without answering health questions?
Answer: Not most of the time. The Annual Enrollment Period allows beneficiaries to switch from any Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan, or back to Original Medicare and a Prescription Drug Plan. Beneficiaries may also switch from Original medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan.
Medicare Supplement plans will require beneficiaries to answer health questions to join, unless they are new to Medicare (this is called Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment. It lasts for the first 6 months of joining part B of Medicare), or if they have a guaranteed Issue (GI) right as defined by Medicare. You can review GI rights by calling me or by reviewing the Choosing a Medigap Policy booklet provided by CMS.
Does Medicare Part A cover outpatient surgery, or is that strictly under Part B?
Answer: Medicare Part A does not cover outpatient surgery. Medicare Part A only covers inpatient Hospital stays.
Will I be penalized if I do not enroll in Medicare when I turn 65?
Answer: This is a loaded question. Many people work past the age of 65 and if they have credible insurance, they won't be penalized.
However, there are many things to consider when reviewing Medicare enrollment. It is always advisable to speak with a licensed agent before making the decision to opt-in or opt-out.
When discussing Medicare enrollment with me, I walk you through things like:
Late Enrollment Penalty -- what is considered credible coverage?
Tax implications of enrolling in Medicare Part A and making HSA contributions.
Employer sponsored insurance vs. Medicare
Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement.
What are the reasons why I should work with a Medicare agent?
Answer: Working with a Medicare **Broker** is extremely valuable for many reasons, but I'll offer my top two.
First, when you work with a local broker, you get an unbiased opinion on the various plans available. Some things may look good on paper, but not work the same in reality. Some plans boast of extraordinary benefits, but they truthfully do not work for everyone.
Second, working with a local broker gives you real customer service. My clients have exclusive access to top-tier customer service without the wait. They know they will get the answers they are looking for in a timely manner without having to go through the wringer.
**Bonus Answer** When you work with me, you actually know who you are talking to -- a real-life, honest guy, here to help guide you through all your insurance needs.