What's the most important question I should be asking about Medicare that I probably haven't thought of yet?
Answered by 88 licensed agents
With Medicare supplements there are fewer prior authorizations and when there is one they are generally just looking for Fraud, Waste, and Abuse. What they are not looking for are ways to protect their profits. They aren't looking for how they can squeeze more money out of the system to pay their CEO or have more money for their marketing budget.
Yes, there are times when an Advantage Plan is the right fit. It does depend on your budget and the amount of control you have really depends on the company you go with. In general though I think you retain more control of your healthcare with traditional Medicare and a supplement.
Answered by Andrew Bennett on April 1, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, GA & VA
Answered by Tasha Riggs on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO, AZ, HI & 10 other states
Answered by Joseph Bachmeier on April 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in PA, AZ, DE & 5 other states
Answered by Nikki Rowland on April 2, 2025
Broker Licensed in SC & NC
Answered by Anthony Castelluccio on March 31, 2025
Agent Licensed in PA, DE, MD, NJ & VA
Answered by Thomas Ashton on March 29, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 6 other states
Answered by Daniel Weeks on March 31, 2025
Broker Licensed in MN & WI
What documentation do I need to have to be able to consider a Medicare advantage plan, and how do I go about getting what I need?
Answered by David Moscowitz on March 29, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY
I say this because Medicare can be so confusing and complex that it requires you go to school and obtain a license to fully and accurately comprehend it.
In addition to that, Medicare changes every year so it also requires continuing education as well as successfully passing exams each year.
Knowing this, a Licensed Medicare Broker works on your behalf, free of charge, and has a legal fiduciary duty to do what’s in your best interest.
Plus, any good Broker will make sure you understand your options, explain why some may be more advantageous than others, and service your policy for the life of you being enrolled in Medicare.
So to be able to obtain that level of expertise at no cost, I state again. The most important question you should be asking about Medicare that most haven’t thought of yet is….
“Why am I not working with a Licensed Medicare/Health Insurance Broker?”
Answered by Charles Boone on April 7, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH
Answered by Keaton Lewis on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in ID, AZ, CA & 11 other states
Answered by Kyle Kokot on April 7, 2025
Broker Licensed in NC, AL, AR & 30 other states
Answered by Jane Ahrens on March 30, 2025
Broker Licensed in NY, AL, AZ & 16 other states
If there is no network, you can travel any where in the United States and be covered. HMO's and PPOs are not universal in their ability to allow you to go anywhere and get coverage.
Answered by Jeffrey Jon on April 2, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX
Answered by Candace McWilliams on March 31, 2025
Agent Licensed in IN
Answered by David Wynne on May 12, 2025
Broker Licensed in SC, NC & PA
So, an important question is "Do I understand the Medicare Plan enrollment periods and requirements?
Answered by Betsy Mullison on April 1, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO, AR, AZ & 11 other states
A thorough needs analysis is critical when choosing a Medicare plan.
Answered by Leslie Helene Sussman on March 31, 2025
Broker Licensed in NJ, FL & PA
Answered by Dana Dane on April 2, 2025
Agent Licensed in OR, AZ, CA & 6 other states
Answered by Michael Yost on March 28, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH, AL, AZ & 27 other states
Answer: No, Original Medicare Part A & Part B does not cover Medicare Beneficiaries outside of the United States. Except for limited coverage near the U.S. border.
Answered by Andrew Zurbuch, MBA on March 31, 2025
Broker Licensed in IN, FL, KY, MO, OH & TN
Answered by Christopher Orr on April 14, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, KY, NC & VA
Answered by Don Golding on April 21, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AR & 5 other states
Answered by Jennifer Stark on April 4, 2025
Broker Licensed in WI, CO & FL
Basic Medicare does not cover 1. Hospital stay deductibles or all of the Out of Pocket C0-Pays,
2. Prescription Drugs, 3. Dental or Vision.
Answered by Vicki Farley on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in IL, AL, AZ, IN & KY
Answered by Claire Akey on March 31, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, CO & 14 other states
Answered by Doreen Dann RN, BSN, MHA on April 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in CA, AZ, CO & 9 other states
Here's why this question is crucial:
Original Medicare has limitations: Original Medicare only covers a portion of your healthcare expenses. It doesn't cover routine dental, vision, or hearing care, or long-term care. Even for covered services, you'll face copayments, coinsurance, and a deductible.
Medicare Advantage plans have their own gaps: While Medicare Advantage plans often offer better coverage, they might have network restrictions, require pre-authorization for some services, and have their own copayments and deductibles. You may also face penalties for using out-of-network providers.
Understanding your plan's limitations is key: Carefully review your plan's benefits document, formulary (if it's a Part D plan), and provider network to identify any potential coverage gaps or limitations.
Consider supplementary coverage: You may need to consider purchasing a Medigap policy (Medicare Supplement) to help fill gaps in Original Medicare or explore other coverage options like supplemental plans offered by your employer.
Be proactive in asking questions: Don't hesitate to contact your plan or Medicare's website to clarify any uncertainties about your coverage. Understanding your plan's limitations and potential costs is crucial for making informed decisions about your healthcare.
Answered by Fred Manas on May 6, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY, CT, DC & 7 other states
Insurance companies want you to buy advantage plans. They make more money and cost you more
Answered by Gary Henderson on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX, AK, AL & 46 other states
Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states
Answered by David Christian on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA & TX
Answered by Jerry Cohen on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in NY
Answered by Robert Simm on May 15, 2025
Broker Licensed in NC, AL, AR & 15 other states
Answered by Tony Hardwick on March 31, 2025
Agent Licensed in GA, AZ, CA & 15 other states
Answered by Andre Cabral on April 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in NJ
There is so much more to this question than just premiums. Of course, premiums are a part of it. Usually, Part A will be premium-free because you've already paid for it through payroll taxes, but there is a premium for Part B and Part D, and if you made more than a certain amount, the premium might be even higher than what most people pay.
Beyond Parts A and B of Medicare, you will need to choose how you want to receive those benefits. Do you want just Medicare A and B? Do you want to add a Medicare Supplement plan to Original Medicare for additional coverage? What about Prescription Drugs? Or do you want to forgo Original Medicare for a Medicare Advantage plan? Each option comes with different costs, risks and rewards. It's important to understand each option before you decide which is best for you. Then you still need to choose an insurance company!
Once you've decided on a plan and know what premiums you will pay, there are your deductibles, coinsurance, copayments and fees for the covered services you receive. Did you know that with Original Medicare, there is no out-of-pocket limit on how much your claims could cost? Usually, Medicare Advantage plans will have a maximum out-of-pocket amount, but that could be thousands of dollars. Medicare Supplements limit your out-of-pocket risk, but they often have higher premiums. Unless you have a low income and qualify for Medicaid, you will pay more than just the basic premiums for Medicare Parts A and B.
Confused yet? That certainly is not my goal, but I do want to convey to you that Medicare is complicated. This is why having an experienced Independent Insurance Agent who specializes in Medicare Insurance is so important.
Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® on April 1, 2025
Agent Licensed in PA
Answered by Bob Nunn on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL, AL, AR & 36 other states
Answered by Ron Gambles on April 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in TN
Most people getting ready for Medicare are thinking about things like, “How much will it cost?” or “Which plan should I pick?” and those are really good questions!
But the most important question you probably haven’t thought of yet is:
“How will my health needs change in the next 5 to 10 years, and will my Medicare coverage still fit?”
Here’s why this matters.
When you first pick a Medicare plan, it’s easy to just look at today:
What doctors you see right now
What medicines you take right now
What hospitals are close to you right now
But: As you get older, your health could change.
You might need different doctors, specialists, surgeries, hospital stays, or expensive treatments you don’t need today.
The problem is:
Some plans (like Medicare Advantage plans) have rules like small networks or you need "permission" before getting care (called prior authorization).
If your health gets more complicated, it can be harder to change plans later — especially if you want a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, which often requires answering health questions after your first enrollment window.
Simple Example:
Imagine picking a cheap, easy plan at 65, but then at 70 you get really sick and realize your plan doesn’t cover what you need and now it’s too late (or too expensive) to switch.
So in short:
The best question to ask is:
“Will this plan still take good care of me if my health gets worse in the future?”
Tip:
Choosing stronger coverage early even if it costs a little more. This can save you a lot of money, stress, and problems later.
If you want, I can help you go over options that not only fit your needs today, but also protect you for tomorrow!
Answered by Randy Hill on April 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH, AL, AZ & 7 other states
Answered by Andrew Kramer on May 7, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL
Answered by Natalee Nimmo on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in SC, FL, GA & KY, MO, NC & TX
Answered by Babs Atwell on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH
Answered by Scott Klag on April 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in OH
Answered by Lesley Burns on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in AR, MI, MO, NM & TX
Answered by Hector Vazquez on May 1, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL & TX
Answered by Andy Kelly on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in WA & OR
Answered by Jessica Breland on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in LA
What happens if I'm in the hospital for weeks?
Will Medicare help if I need Rehab or a skilled nursing facility?
What if I need Home Health?
How will my plan handle high medication cost or specialty treatments?
There are several what ifs in this world and how someone views them could make an impact on one chooses a plan to address their concerns.
Answered by Tonya Mowan on May 12, 2025
Agent Licensed in AR
Medicare has multiple parts (A, B, C, and D), and understanding how each part covers your specific needs—especially if you have ongoing health conditions or take regular medications—can save you a lot of time, money, and stress.
Answered by Calvin Fritz on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in MO, AL, AR & 22 other states
Answered by Penny Wegner on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in WI, CA, CO & 8 other states
If you are 65 or older, you should be asking if the healthcare plan(s) you have are being utilized. Are there benefits you are missing or now need based on a change in health or lifestyle.
Answered by Gregory Dunham on April 1, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA & AZ
Answered by Johnnie Jeter on April 11, 2025
Broker Licensed in GA & OH
Answered by Taylor Blankenship on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in NC
Answered by Andrew Firmin on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in MA, CT, DE & 13 other states
Answered by Rodrigo Ferrer on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in CT
-Tom Lawson
Answered by Tommy Lawson on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in KY, CT & IN
Answered by Brian Williams on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL, CA, GA & 6 other states
That has more to do with you, and less to do with the plans that are available. Do you have more than one place you call home? Do you see providers in multiple states? Do you have any chronic conditions? Do you qualify for Extra Help or Medicaid? Do you currently pay a premium for your health care? Do you feel things like Dental, Vision and Hearing are of great importance to you? Are you able to pay additional for those added benefits? Do you have an employer subsidy? Are you currently part of a managed care program, (HMO/PPO)?
The bottom line is, there is no "Best" plan. There are many good options that depend on your personal needs, finances, and location. Not all plans are available in all locations. Not all members qualify for all plans. A good agent will take the time to have that conversation with you so that you are able to make an informed decision. Call centers tend to believe one size fits all. They want to get you through the process as quickly as possible so they can move to the next call. Some agents look at commission rates while others look to put you in something more permanent but will have annual rate increases. Ask questions and work with someone who knows those answers. There is never a fee you pay to the agent, so don't feel like you need to navigate the maze on your own.
Answered by Gene Page on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in UT
Answered by Adam Ashby on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO, NE, UT, WA & WY
Answered by Tom Perrucci on April 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in IL, FL, IA & 8 other states
Answered by Angela Brewer on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in VA, FL, MD & 5 other states
Many people focus on what Medicare covers when they first enroll, but it's crucial to understand how your coverage might need to adjust as your health needs evolve. For example, Medicare offers different parts (A, B, C, D), and over time, you might find that you need additional coverage, like supplemental insurance (Medigap) or a different plan that better aligns with your needs. Additionally, asking about the flexibility of your plan, how it handles new treatments, specialist care, or prescription drugs, can save you from gaps in coverage or unexpected costs down the road. Knowing these details ensures that you’re not just covered today, but also set up for the future, as your healthcare needs change
Answered by David Alelishvili on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in NY
Should we be living in the now? Absolutely! It is essential to our and those we love's mental well being. It directly impacts our internal health. And...
When it comes to Medicare, seniors logically tend to focus on monthly premiums or whether their current doctor is in-network. That's what matters today, right?
But the real game-changer is understanding how each choice—Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement, drug plan tiers, enrollment timing—can either protect or limit you down the road.
Consider these questions:
What will happen with my insurance plan if my health declines?
What if I move? Travel more? Need specialized care?
What are the long-term ramifications of Copays, co-insurance, deductibles and maximum out of pocket limits?
The importance of creating a long lasting relationship with your insurance agent is that Medicare isn’t just a set-it-and-forget-it decision. Your agent is your guide to how you’ll navigate aging, health, and independence. Your agent should be helping you get prepared.
Answered by Jeannie Pond on April 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL, AZ, IN & NC, TN, TX & VA
Answered by Charles Mitch Winstead on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in NC, FL, ME & SC, TX, VA & WI
For Medicare Supplement plan and Part D beneficiaries: What are my options when my Medicare supplement plan premiums increase?
When can I review and change my Medicare Part D plan?
Answered by Gina Landers on March 31, 2025
Broker Licensed in OR, AZ, CA, NV & WA
How will potential changes in my health impact my future Medicare needs, and what are the long-term cost implications of those changes?.
In addition, it is very important to ask:
How do the different Medicare supplemental plans, like Medigap or Advantage plans, truly affect my out-of-pocket expenses in various healthcare scenarios?.
Answered by Lachea Harris on April 5, 2025
Broker Licensed in GA, FL, OH, SC & TX
Answered by Beth Bohnsack on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in MN
Answered by Benny Levy on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO
Answered by Mike Laubert on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in MO, FL, GA, IL, TN & TX
Answered by Larry Elliott on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in NC, SC & VA
How can I be sure that Medicare and a plan I choose will work together?
Are there any programs that are offered by Medicare that ma lower my cost?
Answered by Jeffrey Barone on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in RI, CT, FL, GA, MA & NY
Answered by Patti Bagley on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in PA & WV
Answered by John Hunter Christian on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL
Answered by DeeDee England on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in IA & NE
Answered by Tim Roberson on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in AL, AR, MS & TN
Answered by Elizabeth Baron on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in MI
Answered by Daniel Jones on March 31, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO, AZ, FL & 6 other states
Answered by Giselle Donval on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in MD, DC, NJ, PA, VA & WV
Answered by Mark Garrett on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, AL, CA & 17 other states
Answered by Charles Hart on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL
Answered by Craig Walker on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in MS, AL & LA
Answered by Kim Fisher on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in SC
2. How do I determine which plan is best; Medicare Advantage or Medigap?
Answered by George Francis on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in LA
Answered by Julie Williams on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in SC, FL, GA & IA, MN, NC & WI
Which company has the bes plan for me? It depends on if you are firm on keeping your doctor and other needs you have like dental, hearing, and if you are low income your needs will need to be discussed.
Answered by Daniel Smith on April 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in WV
Answered by David Tucci on April 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in IL & WI
Answered by Jackie Rodriguez on April 9, 2025
Agent Licensed in AR, TN, TX & UT
Answered by Sheri Wright on April 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in CT
Answered by Alexis Pepple on May 5, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO, AL, AR & 35 other states
Tags: Advice for Seniors New To Medicare
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