Toni Cormier, Medicare Insurance Broker

Answer: Medicare Advantage plans have in-network providers which pay out at the highest coverage. If you use a out-of-network provider then your claim has a high risk of paying out at the lowest rate leaving you w/a high out-of-pocket expense for you to pay.

Medicare Supplement plans have no networks if Medicare covers they pay.

Answer: Medigap benefits are standard; however, now that you are living in Florida you would want to check to ensure the plan you had in New York is available in Florida as well as if you premium will change or stay the same.

Answer: When you began to get notices that physicians and pharmacies are no longer in the plan network; notice of change which are changes in coverage and benefits; and/or your health needs change. You should be reviewing your options annually to prepare for AEP.

Answer: Life insurance is a safety net for family members in the event of losing a loved one, it is also a great way to transfer wealth to the next generation.

Answer: You are eligible for Medicare after you have been on disability for 2yrs, you should be able to apply for Part A and B.

Answer: Medicare Part A and B and Medicare Advantage (C) cover virtual telehealth visits by eligible providers; however, its important to be aware these visits are subject to copays and deductibles.

Answer: Medicare Advantage plans are great for chronically ill members who are financially challenged; however, they benefits are limited to their networks, having to acquired prior authorizations which delay care and lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket cost.

Answer: Yes, the dental coverage typically will cover preventative services but it typically doesn't cover the high cost services of dental care.

Answer: Medicare Advantage Plans are always cheaper. Many of these plans are low or no premiums but Medigap plans can be inexpensive and offer more control for the members when it comes to their care.

Answer: Many preventative screenings are covered as they are designed to detect illnesses early and/or prevent them as well.

Answer: This would only be covered if it is apart of a diagnosis of diabetes and/or kidney failure; otherwise nutrition counseling would not qualify as a covered service for the diagnosis of high cholesterol alone.

Answer: Yes, if you are outside your initial Medigap open enrollment period or don't have a guaranteed issue right you are subject answering health questions for switching between Supplemental/Medicare plan to another.

Answer: Identify if you are retiring are going to continue to work. This is important because it determine what steps are taken next. If you are retiring all together then you want to initiate your social security benefits as well as compare your employer medical plans vs Medicare. If you are going to continue working full-time then there's no need to file for your social security benefits you can skip right to comparing your health benefits to your now available Medicare benefits.

Answer: In order to delay without a penalty you must ensure that you have creditable coverage in comparison to Medicare Part A and B and prescription drug coverage. If you don't have creditable coverage and don't sign-up for your Medicare benefits when you do you will be subject to penalties for late enrollment.

Answer: Yes, while PPO's don't typically require referrals; however, its not completely unheard of especially depending on the diagnosis and treatment required. Obtaining a referral will ensure coverage for specific treatments.

Answer: It is a industry standard maintain and to gain training annually to stay update on policies and plan options and changes yearly.

Answer: Every area of our lives face moments of uncertainty; however, ongoing discussions and potential reforms aim to address these issues and ensure the program's sustainability. I recommend that we all stay informed and engaged in what is going on and engaged in these discussions to help shape the future of the Medicare system.

Answer: Medicare agents help navigate through all the different options available, help stay abreast of rules and regulations and help to alert you of upcoming changes to plans and options.

Answer: All plans should be chosen based off each persons specific need the same goes for for prescription drugs coverage. Whether a high cost or not if the plan provides better coverage for your specific needs then you should go with the plan that meets your specific needs.

Answer: Yes, plans can be different according to the State and even different per county. That’s why it’s important to find an Agent who can help you shift through the plans to find the right one for you.

Answer: Yes, you can use your HSA funds to pay for Medicare premiums (Parts A, B, C, and D only) not Medigap. HSA Funds can also be used to cover deductibles, copayments and coinsurance. However, contributions must stop once you enroll in Medicare.

Answer: HMO's require referrals or prior authorization to see specialist; as long as you follow the guidelines you should not have to pay everything yourself.

Answer: Broker have access to a plethora of plans while agents are limited to the plans they have access to and can enroll you in.

Answer: The best way to combat this is by entering your medications and locating a plan that covers that medication and at what benefit level. Additionally, depending on your situation you may qualify for Extra Help.

Answer: If you have Original Medicare hearing aids are not covered; however, if you have a Medicare Advantage Plan hearing aid can be a supplemental benefits that the Advantage plan offer.