Theresa Furth, Medicare Insurance Agent

Answer: Discount cards can help you save on prescriptions; however, they can not be used in conjunction with your Medicare Part D. At the point of purchase you would have to let the pharmacy know which way you would like them to process your medication(s) as they cannot process both at the same time.

Answer: The Inflation Reduction Act did cap insulin costs at $35/month beginning January of 2023. However, if your insulin is not on your plan's formulary list or not covered on you Part D plan you will not be protected by the cap. Work with an agent to help find a plan that covers your insulin and that is protected with the Inflation Reduction Act.

Answer: Medigap plans typically have higher premiums and can involve health question underwriting if you miss the initial enrollment window. People tend to choose the Medicare Advantage plan because of lower cost and the extra benefits.

Answer: As it relates to the donut hole, as of this year it is officially gone. Presently, there's a $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket drug costs for all Part D enrollees. If you are still having issues affording your medications and your income and assets are below certain limits, you may qualify for Extra Help or a Manufacturers Assistance Program. Check with your local Social Security or SHIP office.

Answer: It depends on your health needs, lifestyle, and provider preferences. Medicare Advantage offers bundled coverage with extra benefits, while Original Medicare with Part D gives you flexibility and nationwide access. It would be best to speak with a qualified agent and/or you primary care physician to determine the best path for you.

Answer: Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover 24/7 in-home supervision for dementia patients who wander or need constant monitoring. Medicare does cover part-time home health services that can be coordinated thru your primary care physician.

Answer: Don't just pick a plan for the lowest premium or because it the plan you started on - pick a plan to fit you health needs today for complete peace of mind and coverage.

Answer: During the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), you can switch from Medicare Advantage back to original Medicare with a seperate Medigap plan. The down side to that is Medigap insurers can require medical underwriting unless you have a guaranteed issue right. If you are concerned about getting into a Medigap plan, I would work with a qualified agent, get accepted and then cancel the Medicare Advantage plan.

Answer: Yes, Medicare now covers a selection of FDA-approved prescription digital therapeutics (PDTs) for chronic and mental health conditions. Check plan benefits to see if setup, monitoring and the device are covered. A prescription will be required.

Answer: You can get up to 8 smoking cessation counseling sessions per year with your Medicare Part B with no cost to you. If you have Part D, check your plan for covered prescription medications to help you quit.

Answer: Yes, you can receive multiple services during the same visit as long as they meet Medicare’s coverage guidelines and your provider accepts assignment.

Answer: You can qualify for Medicare at any age, if you start dialysis due to End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Coverage typically begins on the first day of the fourth month of dialysis, or earlier if you start home dialysis training. Medicare helps pay for inpatient and outpatient dialysis, supplies, and medications, with options to add drug coverage or supplemental plans for out-of-pocket costs.

Answer: Working with a licensed Medicare agent means having a trusted guide; not just during enrollment, but year after year. We help you make confident choices, avoid costly mistakes, and stay covered with care that fits your life and the service is always free.

Answer: Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

- When: October 15 – December 7 every year.

- What you can do:

- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (or vice versa).

- Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.

- Add, drop, or switch a Part D prescription drug plan.