What's one piece of advice you wish every senior knew before picking a Medicare plan?
Answered by 147 licensed agents
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!
Answered by Alyssa Gonzales on March 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, CO, IA & 9 other states
Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer on August 30, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ & CA
Answered by Larry Dalton on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in OK & TX
Tim Brown
Contact me.
Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown on July 30, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, AL, CO & 10 other states
Answered by Gary Church on August 17, 2025
Broker Licensed in Ca, AZ, NV & TX
Answered by Terri Reagin on July 22, 2025
Broker Licensed in OK, AR, CO & 6 other states
Answered by William Lawler on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in MO, FL, IA & 12 other states
Answered by Tony Capraro III on April 15, 2025
Agent Licensed in NH & ME
Answered by Charise Karjala on May 12, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, CO, PA & WA
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.
Answered by Christopher Boyd on March 4, 2025
Agent Licensed in IN, KY, MI, OH, PA & TN
The difference between the Welcome to Medicare visit and the Annual Wellness visit
While both visits are important and serve a similar purpose, it is important to remember the differences between the Welcome to Medicare visit and the Annual Wellness visit.
What is the Welcome to Medicare visit?
The Welcome to Medicare visit is a one-time preventive visit that occurs within the first 12 months of the Insured’s first enrollment in Medicare Part B. This is considered a once per lifetime benefit, meaning a member is only eligible when they sign up for Medicare for the first time. This visit is covered by Original Medicare as well as possibly a Medicare Advantage plan, the Insured would need to check with their Insurance Company to see if it is covered, when performed by the Insured’s primary care provider. This visit typically consists of a review of the patient’s medical and social history, an examination of the body like height, weight, BMI, blood pressure and other routine measurements, education and counseling about preventive services and more.
What is the Annual Wellness visit?
The Annual Wellness visit is a yearly preventive visit which is covered once per calendar year. The Annual Wellness visit is covered by Original Medicare as well as possibly some Medicare Advantage plans when performed by the Insured’s primary care provider. This visit allows the physician and patient to develop or update a personalized prevention plan. The Insured would need to check with their Insurance Company to see if covered.
This typically consists of a review of the patient’s Health Risk Assessment, an update of the patient’s medical and family history, and more. If the Insured has had Medicare Part B for at least 12 months, they do not need to have their Welcome to Medicare visit before getting the Annual Wellness Visit.
Answered by Andrew Zurbuch, MBA on August 5, 2025
Broker Licensed in IN, FL, KY, MO, OH & TN
Answered by Brian Moore on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH
Answered by Melonie Wood on April 2, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL & AL
Answered by Clarence "Mark" Christiansen on March 27, 2025
Agent Licensed in WI, AZ, CA & 16 other states
I encourage my clients to sign up for both Part A & Part B to avoid future penalties for enrolling late.
Answered by Mark Maliwauki on March 4, 2025
Broker Licensed in ID, AZ, CA & 15 other states
well as the costs. A Broker should have experience with both and examples to share to help the Client make an informed decision as to what they feel is best for them.
Answered by Christy Jones on May 31, 2025
Broker Licensed in ID, AL, AR & 20 other states
It’s common to focus on low monthly premiums, but the true cost of a Medicare plan includes copays, coinsurance, prescription drug costs, and provider access. A plan that looks affordable up front could end up costing much more in the long run if it doesn’t cover your doctors, medications, or expected treatments.
Here’s a better approach:
Review your current health needs—do you see specialists, take brand-name medications, or expect surgeries?
Check provider networks—make sure your doctors and preferred hospitals are covered.
Look at your total out-of-pocket costs, not just premiums.
Think ahead—choose a plan that can grow with you, not just meet your needs today.
The right plan isn’t always the cheapest—it’s the one that offers the most value for you.
Steven Graves
Answered by Steven Graves on July 1, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX
Answered by Michael Denniston on June 2, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL, AL, AR & 11 other states
Answered by Joseph Bachmeier on March 25, 2025
Agent Licensed in PA, AZ, DE & 5 other states
Answered by James Carlson on March 28, 2025
Broker Licensed in MN
Answered by Dutch VanHoesen on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL
Answered by Jennifer McDonnell on May 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in MI, AZ, CA & 10 other states
*You will have a penalty for the rest of your life!
*If you choose the "wrong plan" you can never correct this mistake!
*Someone you know has the "best plan" and you want what they have!
*Don't sign up with someone who solicits you by phone, if you didn't request their help. They are
breaking the law, if they solicted you, without your permission.
People give you well intended advice that isn't always factual. Not all plans are created equal. Your personal needs, providers, medications and lifestyle should tell me all we need to know about choosing the plan that is right for you.
Answered by Amy Putrino on June 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in RI, CT, FL & 11 other states
Answered by Charles Fletcher on March 24, 2025
Agent Licensed in WA, AZ, ID, NV & TN
Answered by Joseph Meyers on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in MI & TN
Answered by Bill Green on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 19 other states
Answered by Randall Taylor on July 14, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX, MI & WI
Answered by Mark Cunningham on March 19, 2025
Agent Licensed in CO, FL, GA, NE & WY
Answered by Eli Roque on August 2, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, FL & 8 other states
Answered by Michael Ryan on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, CO & 7 other states
Answered by Tyler Coleman on August 6, 2025
Broker Licensed in AL, AZ, CA & 10 other states
Answered by Sandra Teel on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in WV, AZ, CA & 13 other states
Answered by Thomas Ashton on March 29, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 6 other states
Too many people get lured in by $0 plans, not realizing they might pay more later in co-pays, prescriptions, or out-of-network surprises. It’s not one-size-fits-all — your doctors, prescriptions, travel habits, and financial situation all matter. Sit down with someone you trust who can break it down for you. It could save you thousands in the long run.”
Answered by Joseph Ritter on July 16, 2025
Broker Licensed in PA, AZ, DE & 7 other states
Answered by Vincent Esposito on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in NY, FL & NJ
Answered by Alicia Hoilman on June 11, 2025
Broker Licensed in VA, DE, FL & MD
Answered by Michael Wehner on August 26, 2025
Agent Licensed in IN, KY, NC, OH, PA & SC
Answered by Justin Call on June 30, 2025
Broker Licensed in UT, ID, MT & WY
We're not always trying to solve a math problem. It can be more about autonomy over your healthcare when it matters most.
Answered by Rodney Powell on August 1, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AR & 29 other states
Answered by Michelle Sparks on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in KS, MO & TX
Answered by Tom Rogala on April 2, 2025
Agent Licensed in MI, AR, AZ & 10 other states
Answered by Patrick Hecht on May 20, 2025
Broker Licensed in VA, CA, MD, PA & WV
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!
Answered by Shane Bullock on March 11, 2025
Broker Licensed in UT, AZ, FL & 9 other states
Answered by Jon Kelderman on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in IA, AZ & TX
Answered by Kim Kirsch on May 1, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, AK, AL & 46 other states
Answered by Sarah Rollins on June 12, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO, AZ, CA, ME, SC & TN
Answered by Mackenzie Anderson on July 3, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX
Answered by Jay Carlton on March 13, 2025
Agent Licensed in UT
Answered by David Moscowitz on March 29, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY
Answered by Kevin McIntire on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in IN & OH
Answered by Greg Milliser on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in MO, AR, IN, KS, OH & OK
Answered by Adam Simon on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in MI, AZ, CA & 8 other states
Answered by Chad Cason on March 12, 2025
Broker Licensed in GA, AL, FL & 13 other states
Answered by Sergio Valenzuela on March 18, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, FL & MI, OH, SC & TX
Answered by Keaton Lewis on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in ID, AZ, CA & 11 other states
Answered by Lauren Singer on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in SC
Answered by Tonya Bell on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in SC, AZ, CT & 16 other states
Answered by Carrie Cordial on June 28, 2025
Broker Licensed in KY, AL, AR & 29 other states
Answered by Roger Werking on March 25, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL
Answered by Katherine Griffin on March 21, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ
Have a list of doctors, medicines, hospitals. Exact spelling, dosage, frequency.
Answered by Roberta Thoma on March 4, 2025
Broker Licensed in NY, CT, FL, NC, NJ & SC
Answered by John Morales on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, NV & TX
Answered by Steven Bleicher on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ
Working with someone over the phone doesn't always get you the best results. Working with someone who only represents one company doesn't always provide you with the best coverage to fit your needs. Medicare plans available are not a one size fits all, meaning, what may be good for your neighbor, friend, or spouse -- may not be right for you.
Answered by Diana Garner on May 2, 2025
Broker Licensed in KY, FL, IN, OH & TN
Answered by Steve Houchens on April 2, 2025
Agent Licensed in KY & TN
Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® on July 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in PA
Answered by Gregg Matheny on March 25, 2025
Agent Licensed in AZ & UT
Answered by Yasmery Vargas on April 29, 2025
Agent Licensed in PA
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.
Answered by Leslie Helene Sussman on March 31, 2025
Broker Licensed in NJ, FL & PA
Answered by Shelly Hefley on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in IN, AL, IL, KY & TN
Answered by Mary Salmon on June 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX & OK
Answered by Joseph Peck on May 19, 2025
Agent Licensed in MI, AL, CO, KS & TN
Answered by Diana Salisbury on May 11, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH, IN & MI
Answered by Cody Hebden, MBA, CLU, FLMI on August 15, 2025
Broker Licensed in NC & SC
Answered by Thomas Magnus on June 21, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, NV, OR & WA
Answered by Heidi Delaney on July 30, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO, AZ, KS & 5 other states
Answered by Sean Davis on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in NY, LA, MD & 6 other states
Answered by Maurice Ellis on March 6, 2025
Agent Licensed in MS, AL, AR & 17 other states
Answered by Becki Jennings on June 4, 2025
Agent Licensed in MO
Answered by Alan "AL" Minthorn on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in ME, FL, GA, NC & NH
Answered by Tammie Rutledge on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in WA, AZ, FL & ID, MT, OR & TX
Find an honest agent to help guide you. Ask you questions to narrow down your search.
Answered by Doris Youngman on July 7, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL, AL & GA
Answered by Comfort Olude on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, FL, GA & 9 other states
Many people look at Medicare Advantage plans with a $0 premium, but in the long run for serious issues they can come with a higher out of pocket costs later. This remains true especially if you need specialists, travel frequently or have chronic conditions.
Always check for maximum out of pocket limits to avoid unexpected expenses and make sure to always check the formulary for medications and network for your preferred providers.
Answered by Janet Cruz on June 4, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL
Answered by Christopher Orr on March 29, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, KY, NC & VA
Answered by Eduardo Camacho on May 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in CA, FL, NC, NV, SC & TX
Answered by Ryan Raphael on March 5, 2025
Broker Licensed in MO, AZ, GA, IL & TN
Answered by Frank Woerner on June 30, 2025
Broker Licensed in IN & IL
Many seniors learn the hard way that a plan with extra benefits isn't always better if it doesn’t include their preferred providers or if prescription costs end up being much higher. A little homework upfront can save a lot of stress (and money) later.
Answered by Craig Kirscht on April 21, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO, FL, IA, OK & SD
Answered by Jeremy Henry on May 14, 2025
Broker Licensed in VA
Answered by Aaron Lewis on May 28, 2025
Agent Licensed in NJ & NY
Answered by Sandra Kerley on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in SC, NC, OH, VA & VT
Answered by Jon Maves on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, AZ, CA & 9 other states
Answered by Frank Adkisson on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in NE, AR, AZ & 13 other states
Answered by Matthew Libby on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, AR, KY & OH, OR, SC & TX
Answered by Stephanie Yarberough on March 4, 2025
Broker Licensed in PA
I feel it is important for seniors to know that sitting down with an experienced and licensed agent is at no cost to them.
Answered by Inga Roth-Kennedy on March 24, 2025
Broker Licensed in WI & MN
Answered by Jake Major on March 25, 2025
Agent Licensed in WY, CO, ID, KS, MO & UT
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.
Answered by Wayne Rigby on March 25, 2025
Agent Licensed in UT
Answered by J.B. Burnett on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in GA, CA, FL & 12 other states
Tags: Advice for Seniors
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