Yasmery Vargas, Medicare Insurance Agent
Yasmery Vargas
MediConnect
Medicare Agent Licensed in PA
10+ Years of Experience
Contact Details
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Location
Reading, PA
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Phone
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Website
Yasmery Can Help With:
About Me
Hey there, my name is Yasmery, and I am your local Medicare advisor and agent. I specialize in Medicare 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 Yasmery Vargas
What do you like most about being a Medicare agent?
Answer: What I enjoy most about being a Medicare agent is being able to provide Medicare recipients with the resources they need to make confident decisions on healthcare. With healthcare being one of the most important investments in life, I pride on eliminating the stress of transitioning into Medicare, giving power back to the seniors.
Are Medicare Advantage plans really "free," or is that just clever marketing?
Answer: First and foremost, there are Medicare advantage plans with a premium and there are medicare advantage plans without a premium. Depending on the financial circumstance, when a recipient is responsible for paying their Medicare Part B premium with social security and may not qualify for state assistance, a 0.00 plan may be option to save some money. It is however, still subject to out-of-pocket costs and in some cases higher copays.
While it may seem like clever marketing, In order to be eligible for those plans you must be enrolled in Part A and Part B. When we look at Part B, in most cases it will cost 185.00/month which must be paid in order to enroll into any Medicare health plan including the Medicare advantage option that is 0.00.
Isn't it suspicious that Medicare Advantage plans offer gift cards and incentives to enroll?
Answer: Medicare advantage plans don't offer incentives to enroll. While there are a wide variety of plans out there, Health Insurance companies are just trying to encourage recipients to utilize their insurance to support good health Maintenance. All Medicare advantages are different and may cater to areas differently. All Medicare advantages are different and may offer additional benefits based on financial eligibility. Low-income recipients may be eligible for more benefits, than a recipient who is not classified as low-income.
I switched to a new Part D plan and now half my meds require prior authorization. Why didn't anyone warn me this could happen?
Answer: When transitioning from a prescription drug plan to a different prescription drug plan, It is extremely important to sit down and review the formulary associated with the plan to make sure your medications are covered. It is also a good practice to consult with your doctors on what insurance they take and/or support for ease of transition. Look out for your Explanation of Benefits and Annual Notice of change later in the year. These documents are made to inform you about what you have and what's to be expected and if there are any changes for the new year. While this may not answer, why there was no warning, hopefully this will help avoid this from happening again.
I've been diagnosed with prediabetes. What preventive services does Medicare cover to help prevent progression to type 2 diabetes?
Answer: Preventive care is not done on the bases of your medicare but on the quality of care from your doctor. A good doctor will provide good care and education to prevent progression of illness. Depending on your insurance and dietary needs set by your physiscian, you can utilize benefits like nutrition health as well as gym memberships to support a good healthy habit which are typically included with your coverage.
What shift has been observed in Medicare spending, particularly regarding Medicare Advantage plans?
Answer: The dental and hearing benefits are underused. It caused many insurance companies to not only reduce benefits but also reduce other benefits like otc spend with restrictions.
Does Medicare cover cancer screenings, and how often can I get them?
Answer: Cancer screenings are typically covered as a preventative service. How often depends on the carrier. Refer to the explanation of benefits for specific details as the amount may be different per carrier.
I'm a low-income senior who can't afford my prescription drugs even with Medicare Part D. What specific assistance programs should I apply for?
Answer: You may be eligible for "extra help" through social security. It is a pharmaceutical program that helps cover the cost of your prescriptions. Refer to ssa.gov for more information.
You can also apply for state insurance with your local welfare office. Depending on state they can provide additional resources for local organizations that provide additional services based on eligibility.
I'm considering genetic testing to assess my cancer risk based on family history. Will Medicare cover this preventive approach in my situation?
Answer: Unfortunately, there are requirements that must be met and a physician must confirm it is medically necessary. In most cases the question is best asked directly to your Healthcare provider and/or your specific insurance company to see if there are accommodations for your particular situation.
Won't Medicare run out of money before I can benefit from it?
Answer: Medicare is not a financial identity. Once you age in to Medicare you are subject to the guidelines set by Medicare/CMS.
My pharmacist mentioned the Medicare "donut hole" is going away in 2025. What does that actually mean for me?
Answer: The maximum out of pocket for prescription was reduced to $2000 a year. Once the $2000 has been met between you and your insurance company, your prescriptions would be covered. It will reset every year.
Every year I stress over picking a plan and still end up surprised by the bills. Is there any way to just get peace of mind with Medicare?
Answer: Stability is key. Just because there's an annual enrollment period doesn't mean you have to shop for a plan every year. I recommend sitting with an agent and having a formal review of your plan. Shop your plan and include all doctors specialist and medications so you don't have to change every year.
Will Medicare cover everything my current employer plan does?
Answer: No. All plans are different. Don't drop employee coverage unless you have problems with it or premium is to high.
How can I estimate my total Medicare costs if I have a chronic condition like diabetes?
Answer: You always have the option of going on to medicare.gov and researching medications as well as plans based on need.
If I start dialysis, how does that change my Medicare eligibility or coverage?
Answer: It does not change your eligibility or coverage. Depending on the plan will ultimately decide out of pocket expense.
Why would you not choose a medicare Advantage plan?
Answer: You wouldn't chose a medicare advantage plan if you have employer retirement benefits or sucessfully enrolled into a medicare supplement.