What's one piece of advice you wish every senior knew before picking a Medicare plan?

Question

Alyssa Gonzales · Accepted Answer

I wish every senior knew that the 'best' Medicare plan isn’t the same for everyone...it’s the one that fits your specific needs and budget. 

Too many people pick a plan based on what their neighbor has or just go with the cheapest option, only to find out later that their doctor isn’t covered or their medications cost way more than expected. 

Take the time to compare your options, ask questions, and make sure you’re choosing a plan that actually works for you. And if you're feeling overwhelmed, talk to an expert, because guessing your way through Medicare can be an expensive mistake!

Larry Dalton · Answer

Testing your agent and where they received their knowledge and training—understanding the two different directions a Medicare customer must choose, and knowing that it is sometimes impossible to turn back after going down that path. Why? The future of your health is unpredictable, so it is wise to plan ahead.

Answered by Larry Dalton on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK & TX

Answered by Larry Dalton Medicare Insurance Agent

Brian Moore · Answer

Throughout my career advising seniors, I’ve noticed many overestimate their grasp of Medicare Advantage versus supplement plans. The key difference lies in a fixed versus variable cost structure, so I provide a detailed, numbers-driven consultation to project outcomes, ensuring they make an informed choice both financially and in understanding benefit distinctions. This approach gives them clarity on both costs and benefits coverage.

Answered by Brian Moore on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Brian Moore Medicare Insurance Agent

Melonie Wood · Answer

PLEASE MEET WITH A LICENSED AGENT who is able to write several carriers, not just have an appointment with ONE Medicare Carrier. This way the agent can discuss the pro's & con's of the plans & help the member make the best choice for them

Answered by Melonie Wood on April 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL & AL

Answered by Melonie Wood Medicare Insurance Agent

Clarence &quot;Mark&quot; Christiansen · Answer

My best advice to every senior trying to understand Medicare is they should consult an independent agent who has access to all major health plans in their zip code. There is no cost or obligation to meet with most of us! So you have much to gain and nothing to lose by taking the advice of an expert. I like the DIY / youtube approach many times but not when it comes to Medicare.

Answered by Clarence "Mark" Christiansen on March 27, 2025

Agent Licensed in WI, AZ, CA & 16 other states

Answered by Clarence "Mark" Christiansen Medicare Insurance Agent

Joseph Bachmeier · Answer

I would like seniors to ask information on the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. I would like seniors to know how important long-term care and short-term insurance are.

Tony Capraro III · Answer

Get all the facts- not the hype! Get a Seasoned Professional to go over ALL the options--not just Medicare Advantage but also Medicare Supplement and Part D prescription plans! Once you know the Pros and Cons of each plan -YOU make the decision that's best for you!

Answered by Tony Capraro III on March 27, 2025

Agent Licensed in NH

Answered by Tony Capraro III Medicare Insurance Agent

Christopher Boyd · Answer

Over 90% of seniors I have met over the past 13 years, wrongly assume Medicare will financially cover their long term care needs. Thankfully, we offer protection for those needs as seniors become more frail and require care their families are often unable to adequately provide. 
Additionally, for those seniors who do not receive federal, state, or VA assistance with their healthcare, Medicare Advantage plans come sometimes become difficult to navigate. Especially relating to network and pharmacy network pricing guidelines. I stand ready to assist anyone with Medicare or retirement planning challenges.

James Carlson · Answer

Health care is and will be expensive.  Be prepared and purchase the best plan that is affordable and makes having care and treatment easy.

Charles Fletcher · Answer

One piece of advice I wish every senior knew before picking a Medicare plan is to carefully consider their specific healthcare needs and prescription medications, not just the premium cost. Plans can vary widely in coverage for things like doctor visits, hospital stays, and drugs, so picking one that aligns with your regular care and meds can save you a lot more money and hassle down the line than just going for the cheapest option upfront.

Answered by Charles Fletcher on March 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in WA, AZ, ID, NV & TN

Answered by Charles Fletcher Medicare Insurance Agent

William Lawler · Answer

It is very important to list your medications and review each health plan for your drug costs. Drug costs can vary greatly depending on the health plan you choose. Also, make sure your doctor accepts the health plan you are considering.

Answered by William Lawler on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, FL, IA & 12 other states

Answered by William Lawler Medicare Insurance Agent

Bill Green · Answer

One piece of advice I wish every senior knew before picking a Medicare plan is to talk to an independent agent who can walk them through all their options based on their specific doctors, prescriptions, and health needs. Too many people choose a plan just because a friend or family member recommended it, but no two people have the exact same medical situation. What works great for someone else could end up costing you more or limiting your access to care. Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the wrong decision can stick with you for the rest of your life! An independent agent can compare multiple companies and plans without being tied to just one option. It’s one of the smartest steps you can take to avoid surprises down the road.

Answered by Bill Green on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 19 other states

Answered by Bill Green Medicare Insurance Agent

Vincent Esposito · Answer

Don't allow yourself to be dictated.. Agents know that in most cases your not familar medicare arena. . talk to someone that gives you options and do what your gut tells you. Everyone has different needs.. hence different medicare options

Answered by Vincent Esposito on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in NY, FL & NJ

Answered by Vincent Esposito Medicare Insurance Agent

Thomas Ashton · Answer

Beware of telemarketers calling you. It is illegal for a telemarketer to contact you without your approval. I have had many clients get their plans messed up throughout the years. If you have an agent you trust rely on them, If not contact, I will take very good care of you.

Answered by Thomas Ashton on March 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 6 other states

Answered by Thomas Ashton Medicare Insurance Agent

Dutch VanHoesen · Answer

There is an overwhelming amount of disinformation or misinformation regarding Medicare. Make sure you deal with a broker who has most if not all of the plans available in your area.

Tom Rogala · Answer

You only have one shot a guaranteed issue into medigap.  If you want to move from advantage to gap down the road you have to answer health questions

Mark Maliwauki · Answer

You can sign up for Medicare 3 months before your birth month.

I encourage my clients to sign up for both Part A & Part B to avoid future penalties for enrolling late.

Soledad Ramirez · Answer

It's very important if you are retiring and delaying your Part B, you will need form L-564 filled out and signed by your employer indicating you have had CREDIBLE COVERAGE from age 65 until you date you retire - OR Social Security WILL add a penalty to your Part B premium which is for the REST of your LIFE!

Answered by Soledad Ramirez on March 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, NV & WA

Answered by Soledad Ramirez Medicare Insurance Agent

Kevin McIntire · Answer

You don't have to walk through this alone. Find a local agent you can trust and lean on them for help and guidance.

Michael Ryan · Answer

Work with an Advisor that can research all available plans available to you. One that will prioritize your doctors and prescription not insurance companies.

David Moscowitz · Answer

The detailed and specific needs of the prospective members and medication costs associated with each specific plan.

Deborah Lee · Answer

Every individual is different, and working with an Advisor who can then guide you through the Medicare Maze.  Having someone who is familiar with your needs.

Edward Allen · Answer

It’s important to fully understand the original Medicare A&B share of cost amounts and how those benefits work

Shane Bullock · Answer

You don't have to do this by yourself! I've seen too many people make mistakes when they try to plan their Medicare coverage alone. Unfortunately, some mistakes can be for life. 

Original Medicare and Medicare insurance plans change every year and we agents/brokers dedicate many hours keeping up to date, so you don't have to. Without a doubt, working with a competent agent/broker will save you time and money. The best part is that it doesn't cost you any more to work with us. Do yourself a favor and get a competent agent working for you!

Lauren Singer · Answer

Finding a medicare plan is like trying on a piece of clothing or a pair of jeans. The same way clothes are tailored to each person differently so is each medicare plan. Each person has different wants and needs so each plan has a different fit for each person, just like the fit of a pair of jeans!!!

Answered by Lauren Singer on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC

Answered by Lauren Singer Medicare Insurance Agent

Tonya Bell · Answer

There are many options when it comes to Medicare and many people make a decision without knowing the consequences. There are rules to follow and plans that could hurt you if you enroll and aren't informed about all the rules. We make sure you get all the knowledge to make an educated decision about which type of plan is best for you or if you need one at all.

Answered by Tonya Bell on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in SC

Answered by Tonya Bell Medicare Insurance Agent

Keaton Lewis · Answer

Don't just pick a plan for it's attractive free stuff. ALWAYS look at a plan for it's drug coverage for your prescriptions and it's network of doctors FIRST. Then you can look at the fun stuff!

Chad Cason · Answer

Currently, and in most states, it's much easier down the road to switch from a Medicare Supplement "Medigap" plan to a Medicare Advantage "Part C" plan than from a Part C plan to a Medigap plan. You have six months from your Part B start date to buy any Medigap plan and not be declined due to health. After six months, your application could be denied due to your health history. It's a lot to put in text, so call me, and we'll discuss all of it! Chad

Answered by Chad Cason on March 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, AL, FL & 13 other states

Answered by Chad Cason Medicare Insurance Agent

Greg Milliser · Answer

It would be good if seniors truly understood the difference between Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage plans and were open to both. There are far too many seniors who are biased against Medicare Advantage because they have been given misinformation by their providers or other people in the health professions or even friends. Both plans serve a purpose and both plans can be equally beneficial depending on a senior's specific needs and situation.

Answered by Greg Milliser on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, AR, IN, KS, OH & OK

Answered by Greg Milliser Medicare Insurance Agent

Joseph Meyers · Answer

One of the most important things a senior could know before choosing a Medicare Plan is that they are making a decision for their health insurance for the rest of their lives. For example, in Michigan only during your initial enrollment period do you get guaranteed acceptance into a medigap plan. You are getting health insurance not extra grocery $$

Answered by Joseph Meyers on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in MI & TN

Answered by Joseph Meyers Medicare Insurance Agent

Adam Simon · Answer

Everyone’s Medicare “puzzle“ is as unique as their own fingerprint. A lot of well-meaning people i. your life will try to “help” by advising you to simply go with a certain plan or option because it worked for them. However, without a comprehensive analysis done on your personal situation (medications, doctors, needs, etc.) that advice could be very detrimental!

Answered by Adam Simon on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in MI, AZ, CA & 7 other states

Answered by Adam Simon Medicare Insurance Agent

Jon Kelderman · Answer

Consult with a local broker who has a great reputation. Make sure the broker has access to a large number of both Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans in your area.

Michelle Sparks · Answer

Seniors! You should begin planning and getting educated on Medicare six months in advance of your 65th birthday. All seniors need to understand the difference between Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Supplement plans. Getting educated about Original Medicare (Part A, B and D), Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) and Medicare Supplements will ensure each senior makes the best decision for them- this is a very individual decision that is dependent on the area you live in, and your financial and physical health. Additionally, all seniors need to know that they need to be eligible and enrolled in Original Medicare Part A and B in order to enroll in a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement Plan. This needs to be completed timely through the Social Security Administration to avoid penalties on premiums or a gap in coverage. This is something that several seniors I work with are not aware of, since a growing number of seniors are working beyond their 65th birthday. Seniors working beyond 65 are generally covered by an Employer Group Health Plan and may not understand how their EGHP interacts with Medicare once they reach 65, when to enroll in Original Medicare, or what documentation to show to avoid unnecessary penalties on premiums.

Answered by Michelle Sparks on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in KS & MO

Answered by Michelle Sparks Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Cunningham · Answer

Seniors that are turning 65 need to be aware they should apply for Medicare 3 months before their 65th birthday. If they are still working, and have credible insurance coverage, they should only sign up for Medicare Part A. Part A does not have a monthly premium and this way they will not incur any enrollment penalties, for Part A, in the future. Once they are ready to retire they can add Part B to their Medicare card, which does have a monthly premium. Currently Part B, for 2025, is $185 per month and could be more depending on the earnings of the person applying for Part B.

Answered by Mark Cunningham on March 19, 2025

Agent Licensed in CO, FL, NE & WY

Answered by Mark Cunningham Medicare Insurance Agent

Tina VanPhung · Answer

Seniors should have some knowledge of how Medicare works, and the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans. They should compare plans, networks, and possible annual out-of-pockets of each type of plan.

Answered by Tina VanPhung on March 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in OR, AZ, CA & 7 other states

Answered by Tina VanPhung Medicare Insurance Agent

Sandra Teel · Answer

It's okay that you don't understand. Medicare is complicated. There are so many options, and every state and county are different So what works for your friend in another state or county may not work for you. Don't just talk to your financial advisor or call one insurance company that can only tell you about their plan. Talk to a professional Medicare Broker who can tell you about all your options.

Answered by Sandra Teel on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in WV, AZ, CA & 13 other states

Answered by Sandra Teel Medicare Insurance Agent

Roberta Thoma · Answer

Make sure part A and Part B are current.
Have a list of doctors, medicines, hospitals.  Exact spelling, dosage, frequency.

Jay Carlton · Answer

While still working and have group insurance, you can defer Part B. Make sure to talk with an agent or Medicare and ask questions.

John Morales · Answer

Please make sure that your doctor and your meds are covered at the lowest cost. Also, make sure that the plan fits your needs and not anyone else.

Roger Werking · Answer

Take your time are look at several plans before you invest your money. There are several different plans to choose from. Make sure the plan meets all you needs.

Gregg Matheny · Answer

One thing that I wish every senior knew before picking a Medicare plan is the basic differences between a Medicare supplement and a Medicare advantage. I also wish that every senior understood the ramifications of selecting a Medicare advantage plan when you were first eligible for Medicare and how difficult the underwriting process can be to get on a Medicare Supplement plan when you are subject to underwriting.

Answered by Gregg Matheny on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ & UT

Answered by Gregg Matheny Medicare Insurance Agent

Leslie Helene Sussman · Answer

DO NOT call the ads you see on TV.    These are call centers looking to switch your plan that may not be the best option for your Medical and Prescription needs.
 
When the ads say FREE food cards or other FREE benefits, Please call a local broker and find out the specifics in your area.   

Plans that advertise FREE food cards are plans for DUAL eligibles Medicare/Medicaid clients.   Qualifying through the state programs for these plans are a requirement.

John L Herman Jr · Answer

Knowing that a trained and Licensed Independent Broker who is certified with all Insurance Carriers in your area can guide you to the best Plan....AT ZERO COST TO YOU. If you use a Broker they will solve the Medicare Puzzle ad give you the options that make sense for your budget, health situation and risk level you are willing to accept.

Answered by John L Herman Jr on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in MD, DE & PA

Answered by John L Herman Jr Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve Houchens · Answer

Just to make sure to be educated on all your options from a licensed agent or broker and not ask for advice from places such as Facebook or social media where you are getting advice from people that are not educated and know the rules and regulations and many times just repeating things they have heard from others

Answered by Steve Houchens on April 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent

Sean Davis · Answer

One piece of advice I wish every senior knew before picking a Medicare plan is to carefully consider their specific healthcare needs and prescription medications, not just the premium cost. Plans can vary widely in coverage for things like doctor visits, hospital stays, and drugs, so picking one that aligns with your regular care and meds can save you a lot more money and hassle down the line than just going for the cheapest option upfront.

Answered by Charles Fletcher on March 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in WA, AZ, ID, NV & TN

Steven Bleicher · Answer

THE most obvious knowledge as a newbie to Medicare is that the most expensive plan isn't necessarily your best choice. It has a lot to do with your potential health issues, how well you get along with your Primary Care physician (does she/he give you the bum's rush), the drugs that have been prescribed, as well as how your finances are at the time you apply for Medicare. Steve

Answered by Steven Bleicher on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Ryan Raphael · Answer

To make sure they talk with an expert that knows the plans in their area and is thorough looking up any meds and doctors.

Tammie Rutledge · Answer

I wish every Senior knew that there are knowledgeable professionals who are trained in Medicare. We are here to help at NO COST to the client. Work with a Broker who is able to shop plans for you. Each person may have unique needs and one plan or Company never fits all.

Answered by Tammie Rutledge on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in WA, AZ, FL & ID, MT, OR & TX

Answered by Tammie Rutledge Medicare Insurance Agent

Shelly Hefley · Answer

Know all of your options and why the agent is steering you to a particular type of plan. Each person should understand the differences between supplements and advantage plans. They need to understand how their individual health should definitely be taken into account when choosing between supplement and advantage plans.

Answered by Shelly Hefley on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in IN, AL, IL, KY & TN

Answered by Shelly Hefley Medicare Insurance Agent

Comfort Olude · Answer

Please take a moment to reflect on your health needs. Do you visit your doctor frequently? Are you on any medications? By understanding what you need, you can pick the right plan. For instance, if you find yourself at the doctor's office more than you'd like, a plan with lower co-pay might be your best option.

Answered by Comfort Olude on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, FL, GA & 9 other states

Answered by Comfort Olude Medicare Insurance Agent

Sergio Valenzuela · Answer

Make sure the plan you picked has coverage for all your doctors and medicines, plans varies from networks and formularies. Also very important to pick a plan from value perspective rather than just benefits/copays.

Answered by Sergio Valenzuela on March 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, FL & MI, OH, SC & TX

Answered by Sergio Valenzuela Medicare Insurance Agent

Christopher Orr · Answer

That they can get any plan choice at initial eligibilty but afterwards in lot cases must qualify. And there are penalties in delaying choice

Sandra Kerley · Answer

Make sure you speak with an agent that represents multiple carriers in your area. Every carrier has great options, but not every carrier can meet your specific wants and needs. Have a list ready to go with all your doctors, medicines, and medical wants and needs.

Answered by Sandra Kerley on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC, NC, OH, VA & VT

Answered by Sandra Kerley Medicare Insurance Agent

Alan &quot;AL&quot; Minthorn · Answer

My best advice would be talk to your fellow senior neighbors and identify a good local agent/broker representing most or all available insurance companies. Call centers and carrier agents are often hundreds of miles away and do not understand local providers, nor hear issues customers have with one plan over another in your backyard.

Answered by Alan "AL" Minthorn on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in ME, FL, GA, NC & NH

Answered by Alan "AL" Minthorn Medicare Insurance Agent

Stephanie Yarberough · Answer

Navigating the parts of Medicare, enrollment timelines and choosing a Medicare Insurance plan can be an overwhelming and confusing process, but it's such an important decision and can have substantial long-term consequences. My encouragement to every person approaching Medicare eligibility is to find a local independent broker that knows the medical systems and insurance plans in their area well and can offer a broad overview of many different companies and plan options within one appointment. There should be no charge to you for an insurance broker’s expertise and assistance.

Answered by Stephanie Yarberough on March 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA

Answered by Stephanie Yarberough Medicare Insurance Agent

Matthew Libby · Answer

A local agent will be your best source to compare the plans in your area. He or she can help you decide if a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) or a Medicare Advantage (Part C) is the right fit for you.

Frank Adkisson · Answer

To not try to do everything by themselves. There's nothing wrong with trying to be informed of the constantly changing landscape of Medicare but one should not try to do it alone. And since there is nothing out of pocket in having an agent as an advocate for you, why wouldn't you select a seasoned informed agent?

Answered by Frank Adkisson on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in NE, AR, AZ & 13 other states

Answered by Frank Adkisson Medicare Insurance Agent

Maurice Ellis · Answer

Take your time and review everything thoroughly. I dont want anyone to miss out benefits they don’t know about.

Jon Maves · Answer

Every person 's needs are different when it comes to Medicare plans! There are so many factors that go into making the right decision. It is important to find an agent who doesn't just tells you what you need to know but asks you good questions so that you figure out what the best fit is for you.

Answered by Jon Maves on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AZ, CA & 9 other states

Answered by Jon Maves Medicare Insurance Agent

Jake Major · Answer

Having an agent doesn't cost you a dime, in fact not having an agent help you navigate your plans may cost you a lot more than a dime!

Wayne Rigby · Answer

I would hope that most seniors realize there that in most areas of the country, there are multiple options to consider.  Don't just take the first one offered.

I would also want seniors to know that possibly the most important thing to remember is to use providers that are in network and that prescriptions being used are in the formulary of the plan they choose.

Inga Roth-Kennedy · Answer

There are so many benfits, options and rules around selecting a Medicare plan.
I feel it is important for seniors to know that sitting down with an experienced and licensed agent is at no cost to them.  I can be reached at 608-576-5635 in the great state of Wisconsin!

J.B. Burnett · Answer

I wish every senior knew what medicare plan their healthcare providers accepted. This would narrow down the options to help focus directly on the plans that work in concert with their provider operations.

Answered by J.B. Burnett on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, CA, FL & 12 other states

Answered by J.B. Burnett Medicare Insurance Agent

Aisha Saleem · Answer

Be thorough about your health status. Making sure your correct health status is on file, will help you to find the plan that best fits your scenario. Also,some Medicare Advantage plans offer a prepaid debit card, called a flex card - which can be used for certain out-of-pocket expenses. If you need help with over the counter medications, dental, vision, or hearing care, groceries, utilities, or discounts on groceries or utilities you should be aware of which plans and carriers offer them.

Answered by Aisha Saleem on March 17, 2025

Agent Licensed in MD & FL

Answered by Aisha Saleem Medicare Insurance Agent

Sean MacBean · Answer

Each of these plans is different. They may have other coverage limits, deductibles, co-pays, or costs. 

It is essential to meet face-to-face with your agent annually and let them help you pick the right plan for your healthcare needs.

Gregory Gudis · Answer

Talk to an Insurance Broker to find out all of your options.  Don't go directly to one company.  Your needs are going to vary from others and you need a plan that fits those needs.

Gregory Dunham · Answer

Take the time to get educated on what is available to you.  

There are a number of options and understanding what Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers, how prescription drugs fit in (Part D), and the difference between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans will help you make the right choice at the right time.

In the end, you should have a local advocate that can help adjust your Medicare plan(s) as your life and needs change.

Jackson Cassibry · Answer

Medicare is Not a "one size fits all product" There are many options available for most Seniors and depending on several factors, I can advise you as to what I would do in the clients particular situation.

Answered by Jackson Cassibry on March 7, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AZ, LA & OK

Answered by Jackson Cassibry Medicare Insurance Agent

Donna Slater · Answer

Call a licensed agent who will educate you on the two Medicare paths you can choose from (Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage. Then, the agent will explain your options based on your needs and budget.

Answered by Donna Slater on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in NM, CA, CO & TX

Answered by Donna Slater Medicare Insurance Agent

Hollie Hittner · Answer

You must check to make sure your Docs and Prescriptiona are covered at the best price.  If you don’t your locked in until the next Election period.

Nicole Creamer · Answer

Medicare is complex and learning new terms, understanding the differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans is not easy and is okay to ask "dumb" questions, this is the only way to learn. As a Medicare plan specialist, I have 27 years of experience in the field, but I remember the enormous learning curve when I got started. Ask questions so you feel you are making an informed decision in your plan and benefits. It is your health and well-being that is important, and understanding your medical benefits is vital should you have a catastrophic health experience.

Answered by Nicole Creamer on March 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in NE, AZ, CO & IA, MN, NC & WI

Answered by Nicole Creamer Medicare Insurance Agent

Christopher Villarreal · Answer

One piece of advice every senior should know before picking a Medicare plan:
Take the time to review all your options — not just the one someone recommends.

Plans can vary a lot in cost, coverage, and which doctors or prescriptions are included. What works for your friend might not be the best fit for you. A quick review now can save you money and headaches later.

Randy Hill · Answer

Don’t choose a plan based only on the monthly premium or how much you receive in otc benefits. Look at the total cost of care. Your health care is the priority not benefits you hear about on TV.

A low-premium plan might seem like a great deal, but it could come with high deductibles, copays, limited drug coverage, or a restricted doctor network. You might end up paying much more in the long run.

Things to consider:

Your prescriptions and how they’re covered

Your doctors, are they’re in-network

Estimated annual out-of-pocket costs (not just premiums)

Your travel needs (some Advantage plans don’t travel well)

Talk to a Medicare expert. They can help avoid costly mistakes.

Katherine Griffin · Answer

I like to educate on the main differences between Medicare supplements and Medicare advantage plans. Such as networks, prior authorizations, and costs. Each person’s preferences and situation determines which plan is the best fit for them.

Answered by Katherine Griffin on March 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Katherine Griffin Medicare Insurance Agent

Lindsey Douglas · Answer

All Insurance companies and policies have pro's and con's. What might look like a great policy could not have the coverage you are looking for. It is important to review as many available options as possible before making a decision. A local independent agent can give you an advantage and review several different policies specific to your healthcare needs. This service is complementary and there is no-obligation to sign up for any of the plans discussed.

Answered by Lindsey Douglas on March 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in MI

Answered by Lindsey Douglas Medicare Insurance Agent

Richard Dorset · Answer

You need to be signed up for both Medicare Parts A and B before you can choose either a Medicare Advantage Plan with or without a drug plan, or a Medicare Supplement Plan (commonly known as Medigap) with or without a drug plan. When choosing a plan, you need to know if the doctors you are a patient of, or may be a patient of in the future, are in plan. You also need to know if the hospitals and other medical facilities you use, or may use in the future, are in plan. The same applies to prescription medications you take. You need to know if your medications are covered by a drug plan you are considering.

Answered by Richard Dorset on March 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in CT

Answered by Richard Dorset Medicare Insurance Agent

What's one piece of advice you wish every senior knew before picking a Medicare plan?

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What's one piece of advice you wish every senior knew before picking a Medicare plan?

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