Find answers to common questions about Medicare coverage and our services
General Questions
Enrollment
Coverage Options
Costs & Billing
General Questions
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, though certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific health conditions may also qualify. It helps cover the costs of healthcare services and supplies, including hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription drugs, and preventive care.
Medicare consists of four parts: Part A covers hospital insurance, Part B covers medical insurance for doctor visits and outpatient care, Part C (Medicare Advantage) is an alternative that combines Parts A and B with additional benefits, and Part D provides prescription drug coverage.
You're eligible for Medicare if you're 65 or older and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who has lived in the United States for at least five consecutive years. Individuals under 65 may also qualify if they have certain disabilities or conditions like End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease).
No, our services are completely free to you. We're compensated by insurance companies, so you receive expert guidance and support at no cost. There are never any hidden fees or charges for using our services.
We simplify the Medicare process by providing personalized plan comparisons, expert guidance from licensed specialists, and comprehensive support throughout enrollment and beyond. We help you understand your options and find coverage that fits your specific healthcare needs and budget.
Enrollment Questions
Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday month and extends three months after, giving you a seven-month window. If you miss this period, you can enroll during the General Enrollment Period (January 1 - March 31) or the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7).
If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period and don't have other creditable coverage, you may face late enrollment penalties that increase your monthly premiums. You'll need to wait until the next enrollment period to sign up, which could result in gaps in your coverage.
Yes, you can change your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7). There's also a Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 - March 31) and Special Enrollment Periods for qualifying life events.
The enrollment process typically takes 15-30 minutes with our guided assistance. Once submitted, your coverage usually begins on the first day of the following month, though timing may vary depending on your specific enrollment period and the type of plan you choose.
You'll need your Medicare card (with your Medicare number), Social Security number, current address, information about any other health insurance coverage, and details about your current medications and doctors if you want to ensure they're covered by your new plan.
Coverage Questions
Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare and often includes additional benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works alongside Original Medicare to help cover out-of-pocket costs like copayments and deductibles, but typically doesn't include prescription drug coverage.
While not mandatory, it's highly recommended. Without Part D coverage, you may face late enrollment penalties if you decide to add it later. Even if you don't currently take medications, having coverage protects you if your health needs change in the future.
This depends on your plan choice. Medicare Supplement plans typically allow you to see any doctor who accepts Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans have provider networks, so you'll need to check if your doctor is in-network. We can help you find plans that include your preferred healthcare providers.
Many Medicare Advantage plans include extras like dental care, vision coverage, hearing aids, fitness memberships, over-the-counter allowances, transportation to medical appointments, and even telehealth services. The specific benefits vary by plan and location.
Yes, Medicare covers many preventive services at no cost to you, including annual wellness visits, various cancer screenings, cardiovascular screenings, diabetes screenings, and vaccines like flu shots and pneumonia vaccines. These services help you stay healthy and catch potential issues early.
Costs & Billing
Most people don't pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working. Part B has a standard monthly premium, which may be higher based on your income. Medicare Advantage and Part D plans have varying premiums, deductibles, and copayments depending on the specific plan you choose.
An out-of-pocket maximum is the most you'll pay for covered services in a year. Once you reach this limit, your plan pays 100% of covered services. This feature is standard in Medicare Advantage plans but not in Original Medicare, which is why many people choose supplemental coverage.
Yes, many Medicare Advantage plans have low or even zero dollar monthly premiums in addition to your Part B premium. However, you'll still have other costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles when you use services. We can help you compare total costs, not just premiums.
Part B premiums can be automatically deducted from your Social Security benefits, or you can pay directly via mail or online. Medicare Advantage and Part D premiums are typically paid directly to the insurance company through automatic bank withdrawal, credit card, or by check.
Yes, several programs can help. Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) assists with Part D prescription drug costs. Medicare Savings Programs help pay premiums, deductibles, and copayments. Medicaid may provide additional coverage if you meet income and asset requirements. We can help you understand which programs you might qualify for.
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