Podcasts about medicare supplement medigap

Ever found yourself pondering the complexities of changing your Medicare Supplement (Medigap) coverage? You're not alone. Whether you're eyeing a switch from one Medigap plan to another, considering a transition to Medicare Advantage, or simply looking to update your Part D coverage, this episode of the Giardini Medicare Podcast is your go-to resource. Join Cameron Giardini and Joanne Giardini-Russell as they delve into the nuances of Medigap changes. This episode isn't just about what to do; it's about understanding your options and the optimal times for making changes, underscored by different scenarios and streamlined processes. Whether it's leveraging the Medigap Open Enrollment Period, navigating the waters of Guaranteed Issue Rights, or tackling underwriting challenges, we've got you covered. Plus, for those considering a switch to Medicare Advantage or merely tweaking their Part D plan, we break down the critical timelines and procedures to ensure a seamless transition. Remember, changing your Medigap coverage isn't a decision to take lightly. With the right knowledge and guidance, you can make choices that best suit your health and financial well-being. Please register for our FREE Online Course here: https://www.gmedcourse.com/Giardini Medicare is an independent insurance agency specializing in helping Medicare beneficiaries enroll in the Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan that fits their needs during their transition to Medicare. We are licensed and work virtually in the following states:  AZ, CA, FL,  IL, IN, KY, MI, MD, NC, OH, PA, SC, TX. If we do NOT work in your state, we can refer to agents that we know, like & trust across the country.Check out our website at  https://gmedicareteam.com/ Also, see our additional educational content on our YouTube Channel.You can also connect with and learn more on TikTok and our private Facebook Group, and while you're at it, check out our Google Reviews!  And please get added to our mailing list so we can remain in touch with you.Sources:List of Special Enrollment Periods: https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/get-more-coverage/joining-a-plan/special-enrollment-periods2024 Choosing a Medigap Policy: https://www.medicare.gov/publications/02110-medigap-guide-health-insurance.pdf2024 Medicare and You Handbook: https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/10050-medicare-and-you.pdf

In this episode, we're tackling a common question among Medicare Advantage enrollees: How do you switch to a new Medicare Advantage plan or transition to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Part D coverage? If you're considering a change or want to understand your options, this is for you.Hosted by Cameron Giardini and Joanne Giardini-Russell of Giardini Medicare, we provide clear, actionable information on navigating Medicare changes. Our agency, based in southeast Michigan, assists consumers across 13 states in finding suitable Medicare coverage. For those living outside of these states, we connect you with reliable agents who can help.In This Episode:- An introduction to Medicare Advantage plans and how they compare to Original Medicare.- A breakdown of when and how you can switch Medicare Advantage plans or move to Medigap and Part D coverage.- Real-world examples to illustrate the change process and what to expect.Before you go, consider subscribing for more Medicare insights and visit our website for personalized support. Schedule a call with our licensed brokers at gmedicareteam.com or contact us at 248-871-7756 for direct assistance.Tune in to demystify the process of changing your Medicare Advantage plan and equip yourself with the information needed to make informed healthcare decisions.Please register for our FREE Online Course here: https://www.gmedcourse.com/Giardini Medicare is an independent insurance agency specializing in helping Medicare beneficiaries enroll in the Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan that fits their needs during their transition to Medicare. We are licensed and work virtually in the following states:  AZ, CA, FL,  IL, IN, KY, MI, MD, NC, OH, PA, SC, TX. If we do NOT work in your state, we can refer to agents that we know, like & trust across the country.Check out our website at  https://gmedicareteam.com/ Also, see our additional educational content on our YouTube Channel.You can also connect with and learn more on TikTok and our private Facebook Group, and while you're at it, check out our Google Reviews!  And please get added to our mailing list so we can remain in touch with you.Sources:Medicare Advantage Special Enrollment Periods: https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/get-more-coverage/joining-a-plan/special-enrollment-periodsMedigap Guaranteed Issue Rights: https://www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/medigap/ready-to-buy2024 Medicare and You Handbook: https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/10050-medicare-and-you.pdf2024 Choosing a Medigap Policy: https://www.medicare.gov/publications/02110-medigap-guide-health-insurance.pdf

Question: Is it possible that High Deductible Plan G is a good choice for a person with severe health problems? Question: What are five important things to know about Medicare supplement plans? Question: Age 65 and still working with company health insurance. Should I enroll in Medicare? Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+)   Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2023; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com. Return to leave a short customer review & help future readers. Official website: https://www.MedicareForTheLazyMan.com

In this video, I break down which Medicare Supplement/Medigap plans will be the ones to get in 2024! Christian Brindle Insurance Services is a Medicare specialized agency located in Sandy Utah. Christian hosts the most popular Medicare podcast on the internet called The Everything Medicare Podcast, written and published two books about Medicare, and is the founder of his own company that is dedicated to helping people on Medicare everywhere. Don't forget to like and subscribe for more videos! Helping people in 46 states! Call us to see if we can help you! 801-255-5340 Visit our website for more information: www.christianbrindleinsuranceservices.com Pick up Christian's Medicare Guidance book and learn everything you need to know to make a good choice: https://www.amazon.com/Medicare-Guida... Follow us on social! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christianbri... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christianbr... Twitter: https://twitter.com/C_E_Brindle #Medicare#Medigap#Insurance #HealthInsurance #Health#Healthcare#Medicaresupplement#MedicareAdvantage #Medicare2021#Medicarehealthplan#InsuranceAgent#MedicarePodcast Medicare, Medigap, Medicare Supplement, Insurance, Health Insurance, Health, Healthcare, HAS, Retire, Retirement, Social Security, Christian Brindle, FICA, Medicare Podcast, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, Medicare Part A, Medicare Part B, FICA, FICA Tax, Retirement, Retire

In this edition of Medicare Moments Toni says: America does not realize that Medicare Part B is as valuable as GOLD and should be treated carefully. When you enroll in Part B the wrong way, it can cause you to not qualify for the Medicare Supplement you desire.             Medicare provides special rules for employees or spouses who are “still working” with “true” company benefits and are covered by the employer group health insurance.              Toni discusses the Medigap Open Enrollment Period and in the 2023 Medicare & You handbook it states, “The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period. During that time, you can buy any Medigap policy sold in your state, even if you have health problems. This period automatically starts the first month you have Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) and you're 65 or older. It cannot be changed or repeated. After this enrollment period, you may not be able to buy a Medigap policy. If you're able to buy one, it may cost more due to past or present health problems.”             Toni explains Tom, the husband, is not under the same Medicare rules because he enrolled in Medicare Part B when he turned 65 over 2 years ago.  Now he must answer underwriting questions to qualify for a Medicare Supplement.             Toni stresses: That's why enrolling in Part B when an enrollee or spouse is “still working” full-time with true company benefits in a timely manner is so important. You want to not only avoid receiving a Medicare Part B penalty. You also want to be able to enroll and be accepted in any Medicare Supplement/Medigap plan due to medical underwriting You will want to share this podcast with your Medicare age friends!  Recognized by feedspot.com as one of the best Medicare Podcasts in the nation! Write Toni - info@tonisays.com. Toni's book is available at www.seniorresource.com and www.tonisays.com You can call Toni at 832-519-8664 Toni welcomes all Medicare questions.  If you would like to schedule Toni to speak to your community organization or church, please call 832-519-8664.  You can find us wherever you find your favorite podcasts, such as: Apple: https://apple.co/44MoguGSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7c82BS4hb145GiVYfnIRsoAmazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/884c1f46-9905-4b29-a97a-1a164c97546b/medicare-moments?refMarker=null Toni's new book: Maze of Medicare is now available at www.tonisays.com Combining Scripture with Medicare, it is the only book of its kind. Buy a book for your pastor and church library.   Toni's columns appear weekly in about 100 newspapers across America. If you would like Toni's column to appear in your local paper - contact us at 832-519-8664 Thank you for listening and be sure to tell your friends about Medicare Moments!  Blessings!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This comprehensive episode starts with the basics, clearly stating what Medicare truly is and who is eligible to benefit from it. We'll explore the complexities of costs, diving deep into the specifics of premiums, deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket limits. Understand how and when to enroll without falling into the late enrollment penalty trap. We'll delve into the essential coverages of Original Medicare, specifically Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), so you know what's covered and what's not. And it's not just about the available plans – we'll also guide you on how to make informed choices that fit your healthcare needs and lifestyle. Moving away from the usual debate between Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage, this episode is about equipping you with the knowledge to navigate Medicare's labyrinth easily. Prepare to enhance your healthcare literacy, make informed decisions, and steer your Medicare journey with conviction. Don't miss out on this opportunity to empower your healthcare journey!Giardini Medicare is an independent insurance agency specializing in helping Medicare beneficiaries enroll in the Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan that fits their needs during their transition to Medicare. We are licensed and work virtually in the following states:  AZ, CA, FL,  IL, IN, KY, MI, MD, NC, OH, PA, SC, TX  If we do NOT work in your state, we can refer to agents that we know, like & trust across the country. Fill out the form linked to our map.Check out our website at  https://gmedicareteam.com/Also, see our additional educational content over on our YouTube ChannelYou can also connect with and learn more on TikTok and our private Facebook Group and while you're at it, check out our Google Reviews!  And please get added to our mailing list so we can remain in touch with you.Sources for the episode: Medicare Eligibility CalculatorDefinition of MedicareMedicare Creation HistorySSA Source about Medicare Basics99% of people get premium-free Part AWhat Medicare CoversSpouses work history for Premium-Free Part ASSA regulation for using a spouse's work history

Toni King says that your friends' best advice can be costly when it comes to Medicare. Toni has a question regarding foreign travel and Medicare and how best to protect yourself when traveling. Additionally, Toni sorts through Original Medicare, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans F and G, as well as C, D, M & N. Find out about the changes to Medicare Part A after January 1, 2020, find out about deductible for Medicare  Part B and more. You can call Toni at 832-519-8664, or write to info@tonisays.com Don't forget to visit us at tonisays.com and on Facebook!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to your Medicare insurance options, we often point out the fact that your choices essentially come down to a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan. With millions of Medicare beneficiaries making this same decision, we are often asked, "which option do most people choose?". Ultimately, that choice will be based on your individual budget, wants, and needs but in today's episode, we will break down national trends and talk about the data to find out whether Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans are the most popular choice for those on Medicare. See our sources for today's episode at the end of this description (there are a lot!). Giardini Medicare is an independent insurance agency specializing in helping Medicare beneficiaries enroll in the Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan that fits their needs during their transition to Medicare. We are licensed and work virtually in the following states:  AZ, CA, FL,  IL, IN, KY, MI, MD, NC, OH, PA, SC, TX  If we do NOT work in your state, we can refer to agents that we know, like & trust across the country. Fill out the form linked to our map.Check out our website at  https://gmedicareteam.com/Also, see our additional educational content over on our YouTube ChannelYou can also connect with and learn more on TikTok and our private Facebook Group and while you're at it, check out our Google Reviews!  And, please get added to our mailing list so that we can remain in touch with you.Sources:2022 Medicare Trustees ReportASPE Medicare Enrollment TrendsCMS Medicare Monthly Enrollment Data2022 Telos Actuarial Future of Medicare Supplement ReportKFF 2023 Medicare Advantage SpotlightCMS 2023 Average Medicare Advantage and Part D PremiumKFF 2022 Medicare Advantage Enrollment TrendsKFF 2023 Part D Data2022 AHIP State of Medicare Supplement Coverage2021 NAIC U.S. Health Insurance Industry Analysis Report

Medicare brokers are independent insurance agents that contract with many different insurance companies offering both Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans. Especially during the Annual Election Period from October 15th - December 7th it is important to compare your Medicare options for the upcoming year. This is exactly where a good independent Medicare broker can help! Instead of calling dozens of insurance companies, they can compare the plan options available in your location and eventually enroll you in a plan that is right for you. If you want to connect with our agency or another independent broker in your area, click this link!: https://gmedicareteam.com/mapGiardini Medicare is an independent insurance agency specializing in helping Medicare beneficiaries enroll in the Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan that fits their needs during their transition to Medicare. We are licensed and work virtually in the following states:  AZ, CA, FL,  IL, IN, KY, MI, MD, NC, OH, PA, SC, TX  If we do NOT work in your state, we can refer to agents that we know, like & trust across the country. Fill out the form linked to our map.Check out our website at  https://gmedicareteam.com/Also, see our additional educational content over on our YouTube ChannelYou can also connect with and learn more on TikTok and our private Facebook Group and while you're at it, check out our Google Reviews!  And, please get added to our mailing list so that we can remain in touch with you.

Todd Morrissey is President of Medicare Solutions at Advisors Excel. Advisors Excel is a nationwide firm based out of Topeka. It helps independent financial professionals, advisors, and wealth managers build independent practices.This episode will give you an insider's view into why financial planners, wealth managers and their firms haven't typically gotten very involved in Medicare insurance coverage. But, that's changing and Todd reviews why it's very important to start planning for Medicare well before age 64, how taxes and IRMAA play a part of the equation as well as HSAs.Full episode transcript, notes. quotes and links:https://themattferetshow.com"What I will tell you is some individuals who look at a Medicare Advantage and they see what a max out of pocket is, but they say to themselves, "Well, but I'm not paying a premium every month. I can write that check for the max out of pocket." So they know they have that. But you're right. There are some clients where a financial advisor is talking to them and they say, "Look, I want to go to the doctor. I want to not have any out of pocket expense. I just want to pay my premium." Well, then a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) is something that they would consider. The adage of one size does not fit everybody is definitely true in the Medicare space."-Todd Morrissey, Advisors ExcelThe Matt Feret ShowPrepare for MedicareThe Matt Feret Show YouTube Channel#HSA, #IRMAA, #Medicare, #Medigap, #MedicareSupplement, #IRMAA, #Financialplanner, #Wealthmanagement, #PlanG, #PlanN, #PrepareforMedicare, #TMFS, #TheMattFeretShow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bill Pellegrini runs a large Medicare insurance agency in Phoenix, Arizona that works with over 300 Medicare insurance agents across twenty states. That gives him a pretty unique perspective on what kind of Medicare insurance people are buying across a large section of the country and why they're buying it. This episode will give you a bit of an insider's view into how why Bill thinks local independent Medicare insurance agents are an extremely important part of finding people personalize and individualize their Medicare insurance coverage, Medicare PPOs, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) coverage and Medicare provider networks.“You have to shop your (Medicare) plans every single year. There are too many moving parts, not to. And there are too many dollars on the table that you could be losing by not shopping.”— Bill Pellegrini Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you become Medicare-eligible, you may be wondering whether your existing coverage coordinates with Medicare. Whether Medicare will pay primary or secondary depends on the other type of coverage you have.First, it's common for Medicare beneficiaries to work past the age of 65. Most will have employer coverage. So, the major questions are whether you should keep your Medicare coverage while you have employer coverage and, if you do, which will pay first? This depends on how many employees are at the company.When your employer has 20 or more employees, your coverage is creditable for Medicare. However, with fewer, than 20 employees, the coverage isn't creditable. In the latter scenario, you'll want to enroll in Medicare Part B to avoid penalties in the future.With creditable employer coverage, Medicare is secondary and the group plan is primary. Whereas, with a group plan that is not creditable, Medicare is primary and the group plan is secondary.In the circumstance where you're Medicare-eligible due to disability and have employer coverage, possibly through your spouse, the number of employees must be 100 or more for coverage to be creditable.Medicare Advantage plans are considered primary coverage because they pay for your care instead of Medicare.Other scenarios where Medicare is primary:• You have Medicare and a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan• You're dual-eligible for and have Medicare and Medicaid• You also have coverage through FEHB, TRICARE, COBRA, retiree insurance, or tribal self-insuranceSituations when Medicare pays secondary:• When you have a worker's compensation, liability, or no-fault insurance policy• Active duty with TRICAREAs for Veterans benefits and Medicare, the two don't coordinate together. Veterans benefits work at veteran-approved facilities and Medicare works at civilian facilities.Medicare also does not work with the Marketplace (a.k.a. "Obamacare"). If you have this coverage and receive subsidies, unfortunately, you will no longer qualify for them when you become eligible for Medicare. Additionally, it's illegal for an agent to try to sell you a Marketplace policy when you already have Medicare.eAll this information can seem overwhelming, but we are here to simplify it for you so you can make the best health care decisions. If you found this video helpful, please subscribe to our YouTube channel and join our Facebook Community Group!FAQ Article: https://www.medicarefaq.com/faqs/when-is-medicare-primary/Our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/medicarefaqOur Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MedicareFAQ

Maybe you're not quite sure when to enroll in Part B, or you're unfamiliar with the coverage and costs involved in Medicare's outpatient insurance. If so, this video is a must-watch as we're unboxing everything you need to know about Medicare Part B.You'll use your Part B at doctors' offices, as it's your outpatient coverage. Part B covers medically necessary services given by a provider. This includes preventive care, surgeries, and other treatments.Some medically necessary services Part B will cover include mammograms, colonoscopies, lab testing, durable medical equipment, occupational therapy, transplants, home health services, medications administered at the doctor's office, outpatient mental health services, ambulance services, vaccines (such as for the flu or Hepatitis B), and some services you receive in the hospital.Moving on to Medicare costs, Part B comes with a monthly premium.  Each year, there is a standard premium amount that is adjusted if your income is higher. Each year, the Part B premium is subject to increase and the standard amount is announced each year in the late fall, as is the annual deductible for Part B.In addition to the premium and deductible, Part B also involves coinsurance. Medicare pays 80% of the approved amount, leaving the beneficiary responsible for the remaining 20%. This means you'll need to pay 20% for all services received at the doctor's office.Unfortunately, Part A and Part B don't have out-of-pocket maximums. So, the 20% you pay out-of-pocket can quickly add up. Luckily, this is where Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans can help. They cover the 20% coinsurance, thus protecting you.Last but not least, we're going to let you know when to enroll in Part B. The first enrollment window every Medicare beneficiary has to enroll in Part B is the initial enrollment period. It's unique to you and starts three months before your 65th birthday, ending three months after your 65th birthday. Thus, you have seven months to enroll in Part A and Part B. Keep in mind that if you don't enroll during the first three months of this period, your coverage could be delayed and won't become active until after you turn 65.If you're collecting Social Security benefits, you'll automatically enroll in Original Medicare (Parts A and B), and your Part B premium will be deducted from your Social Security check each month. If you're not collecting Social Security, you'll have to enroll yourself. If you have another form of creditable coverage, like group medical insurance through a large employer, you can delay enrollment in Part B and avoid penalties.Once you leave your employee group coverage when you retire, you'll get a Special Enrollment Period of eight months. Make sure to get the right documentation for proof of coverage.Those who miss their Initial Enrollment Period and don't qualify for a Special Enrollment Period can use the General Enrollment Period to sign up for Part B. This enrollment period occurs annually, from January 1 through March 31. If you sign up during this time, your coverage will begin on July 1.When you lack creditable coverage at the time of enrollment, you'll face a penalty of 10% for every 12 months you went without coverage. Unfortunately, this penalty will stick with you forever. This is why it's so important to be familiar with what constitutes creditable coverage and why you shouldn't just assume you don't need Part B yet.Resources: https://www.medicarefaq.com/original-medicare/medicare-parts/medicare-part-b/Our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/medicarefaqOur Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/medicarefaq

Jackie Lee interviews Ken Clark and Robert Eaton about Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and short-term care products, including profits, pricing assumptions, and bundling opportunities for health carriers.  Together, they explore how bundling the two products may provide a complementary hedge of certain policyholder behavior risks.  Actuaries can better understand the risks involved with doing so, administrative components, and areas of analysis to consider.

This is the second episode in our discussion about Medicare. Specifically, we will cover the differences between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement/Medigap. These plans are optional and are intended to fill the coverage gaps that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) doesn't cover. If you'd like to learn more about Medicare, you can get a free copy of my book: 10 Steps To Getting What You Deserve: A Guide To Your Social Security and Medicare Decisions. You can also purchase it on Amazon. You can find the show at RetirementClarityRadio.com, as well as on YouTube (you just need to search for Scott Newhouse and you will find my channel). If you have any topics you'd like discussed on the show, simply email me at scott@forthrightfinances.com.

Show Notes for this Episode: In this episode, I interview Danielle Roberts. Danielle is a Medicare expert and bestselling author of the book, 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make. Danielle is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Medicare. Medicare is one of the most important benefits we are eligible for in retirement. It covers our primary healthcare from age 65 and beyond. However, Medicare is very complex. There are many ins and outs to understand when it is your time to either sign-up for or change your Medicare benefits plan. In this episode, you will learn: when to sign-up for Medicare (and why you can't miss this deadline) how to enroll in Medicare decoding the Medicare alphabet soup what are the costs of Medicare insurance (no, it's not free) do you need a Medicare supplement plan? the difference between a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage plan the most comprehensive Medicare Supplement plan today what you need to know about Medicare open enrollment how earned income at age 65+ can impact your Medicare premiums potential changes to Medicare in the future More information about Danielle: Danielle's #1 bestselling book 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes Danielle is co-founder of Medicare brokerage agency Boomer Benefits The Boomer Benefits Facebook Group (where you can ask your questions!) Find and connect with Danielle on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter Want to join a community of like-minded women in midlife who are taking charge of their wealth? Learn more about the Women Retire Smart™ Community!

Medicare beneficiaries have the option to obtain additional coverage that will supplement their original Medicare benefits. You can choose between a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Supplement plan. Today, we will compare both side-by-side, so you can make the best decision for your health care coverage.When you enroll in Medicare, you have the option to enroll in Part A and Part B. Part A is your hospital coverage and Part B is your doctor's coverage, or medical coverage.There are still many out-of-pocket costs when it comes to Part A and Part B. This includes deductibles and coinsurance. In order to fill in the gaps of coverage that original Medicare doesn't include, you'll need to enroll in supplemental coverage. For this, you have two options. Option 1: a Part D plan with a Medigap plan, or Option 2: a Medicare Advantage plan.If you are enrolling in a Medigap plan, it is recommended to add a stand-alone Part D plan because Original Medicare does not include prescription drug coverage. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans cover additional, out-of-pocket costs you are otherwise responsible for, such as coinsurance and deductibles.The second option you have is to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. Medicare Advantage is not the same as Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans are managed healthcare plans offered through private insurance companies.Medicare Advantage plans tend to have lower monthly premiums when compared to Medigap. Some Medicare Advantage plans come with ancillary benefits like dental and vision. Some also include prescription drug coverage. Due to the low or $0 monthly premium, beneficiaries need to pay more out-of-pocket as they use the benefits.You may be wondering, how are Medicare Advantage plans free?! The Medicare Advantage carrier is paid around $1,000 per month by Medicare to take on your risk. That is how they are able to offer such low premiums, including some $0 monthly premiums.In addition, Medicare Advantage carriers make money from cost-sharing. Unlike Medigap, you'll have copays every time you see a doctor. If you see multiple doctors within one visit, you could have just as many copays to pay in one exam.It is also important to know that you still have to pay your monthly Part B premium with a Medicare Advantage Plan. A common misconception is that you don't have to pay the monthly Part B premium. This is not true and you will still be responsible for it.You see many Medicare Advantage commercials throughout the year, especially during the Annual Enrollment Period. This is because carriers want these policies to seem more attractive to you with their $0 premiums and additional benefits. This makes them seem like all-inclusive plans. Keep in mind, however, that they are paid by Medicare to take on your risk and they will make their money between Medicare and cost-sharing you pay out of pocket when you use those benefits.Medicare Advantage Plans need to cover the same benefits as Original Medicare. However, it is up to the carrier how much they will cover for that specific service. While Medicare may pay 80% for your doctor visit, Medicare Advantage might cover less than that as well as throw on additional cost-sharing in the form of copayments and coinsurance. All of this can quickly add up to more than the premium would have been for a Medigap plan.So, is it better to have a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medigap plan? This depends on your specific situation. One may not be better than the other. However, one might be better than the other for you.Three Things to Consider When Deciding Which Plan to Go With:1. Budget2. Medical Usage3. Travel FrequencyThe last thing you should keep in mind is that if you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may not be able to enroll in a Medigap plan in the future. 

Compare Medicare Plans Here: https://www.seniorhealthcaredirect.com/quote-3/ If you currently have a Medicare Advantage Plan and you’re looking at upgrading to a Medicare Supplement (Medigap), the mistake many agents make is they will make your Medicare Supplement plan effective for January 1st and they will submit your Part D drug plan for you as well making it effective for January 1st. This is a huge mistake! The issue with this is that as soon as they submit your drug plan, it will automatically kick you off your Medicare Advantage Plan. Because there are only a few days left of the Annual Enrollment Period, you will not know in the next couple days whether or not you’ve been approved for the Supplement Plan. This is how the series of events will unfold to the mistake that could cost you your Medicare Health insurance coverage: The agent will submit your Medicare Supplement application with an effective date of January 1stalong with the Part D drug plan. You will be approved for the drug plan immediately and it will cancel your Medicare Advantage Plan because that’s how the Medicare system is set up. Unfortunately, in another week or so, you will find out that you were not medically approved for the Medicare Supplement and now you are left with only Original Medicare A and B with a Part D plan for your medications. The best way to avoid this mistake is to INSIST that your agent makes the Medicare Supplement policy effective date for February 1stand wait to submit the Part D drug plan until January. There is a second enrollment period that runs from January 1st to March 31st which allows you to go from a Medicare Advantage Plan to a Medicare Supplement. If you have any questions regarding Medicare, please give our office a call at 1-855-368-4717 or visit one of our pages: Website - https://www.seniorhealthcaredirect.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MedicareBob/ Podcast - https://anchor.fm/MedicareBob Twitter - https://twitter.com/MedicareBob YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/RobertBache?_confirmation=1

Compare Medicare Plans Here: https://www.seniorhealthcaredirect.com/quote-3/ Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) vs. Medicare Supplement (Medigap), which is better? This is the dominant question on everyone’s mind during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period. Both types of plans have their pros and cons and, of course, nothing is free in this life so the real question that people need to ask themselves: What are my needs and what can I afford? Summary of a Medicare Advantage Plan: A Private Company provides a health plan that you will use instead of using your traditional Medicare. Low monthly premium Requires you to pay some bills when you use the Plan. You will have copays, co-insurance and sometimes a deductible. You have to go to certain Doctors, Hospitals and other Providers. (HMO / PPO) Has a max out of pocket for your protection. Once you have paid a certain amount, the plan will pay the rest of your healthcare cost. For 2020, most HMO’s are around $4,000.00 and the PPO Plans are around $6,700.00. Sometimes included added benefits like dental, vision, even a gym membership. My thoughts about Medicare Advantage Plans in 2020: In most counties, the Medicare Advantage Plans have been losing funding over the past few years. This has had 2 major negative consequences: The Medicare Advantage Plans have cut benefits and/or increased the out of pocket requirements. Less Doctors, Hospitals and Providers are accepting the Plans. Even with these consequences, a Medicare Advantage Plan offers coverage that is usually as good as most group plans when people were working. Summary of a Medicare Supplement Plan: Medicare ( A and B ) are your primary insurance and the Supplement Plan pays the bills that Medicare would normally make you pay. You can go to any Doctor, Hospital, or Provider in the Country that accepts Medicare. You will very rarely have a healthcare cost other than your monthly premium. (My favorite Supplement Plan is the Plan G, once you pay the first $198.00 of your medical bills, you are done for the rest of the year!) Does have a higher monthly premium then a Medicare Advantage Plan. A Supplement is usually between$80.00 and $120.00 per month. My thoughts about Medicare Supplement Plans in 2020: If you can afford the extra premium per month, you will love having a Medicare Supplement Plan. Medicare and a Medicare Supplement will provide you better healthcare than you have ever had before. If you choose the Plan G (my favorite plan), you will not have any hospital bills. Also, once you have paid the $198.00 annual deductible, you will have no more Doctor or medical bills either. If you have any questions regarding Medicare, please give our office a call at 1-855-368-4717 or visit one of our pages: Website - https://www.seniorhealthcaredirect.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MedicareBob/ Podcast - https://anchor.fm/MedicareBob Twitter - https://twitter.com/MedicareBob YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/RobertBache?_confirmation=1

In this episode, Christian breaks down the negatives of Medicare Supplements! Christian Brindle is the founder and president of Christian Brindle Insurance Services located in Sandy, Utah. At 28 years old, he is an expert in the industry and has helped hundreds of people with their Medicare needs throughout his career spanning the last 8 years. Christian grew up around the insurance industry, as his father has worked with people on Medicare for over 30 years. Christian has written multiple books specifically about Medicare, including “Medicare Guidance: Picking the Plan For You” and “The Insurance Funnel: 9 Simple Tests Every Insurance Policy Must Pass Before Purchase”. Christian is licensed in the following 33 states, and counting: AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WV. If you would like to have Christian help you with your own Medicare, please contact his office at 801-255-5340.

Join me as I explain all of your options for this year's open enrollment if you are a Medicare recipient. I will compare Medicare Advantage to Medicare Supplement/Medigap plans as well explain Part D Prescription drug benefits. Listen and learn, to make an informed decision when signing up for a Medicare plan that works for your budget and your medical needs! #OpenEnrollment #Medicare #MedicareAdvantage #MedicareSupplement #Medigap #PartD #PrescriptionDrugBenefits

You do not have to medically qualify for Original Medicare. Everyone who is 65 or older is entitled to Medicare Parts A and B without having to medically qualify. If you are under 65 and have been on disability for two years or more, you are also eligible for Medicare. In order to purchase a Medicare Advantage Plan, there is only one medical question that you must answer to qualify which is “Do you have End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)?” If you do have ESRD do not be discouraged; there are special plans that Medicare offers to seniors who have ESRD, however you will not have access to the open market Medicare Advantage Plans available to others. As far as a Medicare Supplement (Medigap), everyone has the opportunity to get a Medicare Supplement when they first turn 65, or when they first start Medicare Part B, without having to medically qualify. This is called your Open Enrollment Period and it begins 6 months before and ends 6 months after your 65th birthday or your Medicare Part B start date. After that timeframe, everyone is subject to medical underwriting. The Medicare Supplement medical underwriting only consists of around 20 medical questions, there is no physical or lab work. There are around 30 different carriers that offer Medicare Supplements and they all have different guidelines. In general, most carriers want at least a two-year stable bill of health. If you have any questions regarding Medicare, please give our office a call at 1-855-368-4717 or visit one of our pages: Website - https://www.seniorhealthcaredirect.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MedicareBob/ Podcast - https://anchor.fm/MedicareBob Twitter - https://twitter.com/MedicareB YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy_avKva4VN0DBEgjP7I43w?view_as=subscriber

Medicare Supplement Plans Quotes available at no cost to you. Need best Medicare supplement plans quote? We can offer you fast, simplified Medicare quote and have a video library that answers many questions on Medicare. Phone: 1-877-88KEITH (53484) keith@medicareonvideo.com Medicare Choices Made Easy Get Medicare on Video Medicare Supplement Plan F rates and benefits information that will help you make better Medicare decisions. Are you thinking of switching Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Policies? If you have Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance, you may be wondering if you should consider changing plans. There are several different factors when picking the company that provides your Medicare supplement plan. Read about Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance), which helps pay some of the health care costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover. And learn much more on our website and YouTube channel. We are the best online Medicare Resource Center and even have Medicare made Clear book. When you compare Medicare Supplements in 2019, you need to take into consideration the price and the coverage each plan comes with. What are the best Medicare supplement plans (Medigap) in 2019? We discuss price quotes and find out exactly what you could anticipate to spend for Medicare supplement strategies in FL, TX, AZ, NC, VA and more. We will show you how and when to enlist in Medigap or Medicare supplement insurance coverage. While many websites offer Medicare supplement plan quotes, when a novice just goes in and runs a price they are more than likely going to pay too much. Compare Medicare Supplement Plans for 2019 from the professionals at Medicare on Video. You can compare Medicare supplement plans and rates online from multiple Medigap insurance companies without having to hear from sales people. We help seniors with Medicare supplement quotes and Medicare supplement plan enrollment. Learn to compare Medicare supplements and get free Medicare Supplemental Insurance quotes so you can be sure to get the best prices on Medigap insurance. We love to help. While the pricing of your Medicare supplement is important but to get the best Medicare supplement plan for the long term we look at the company as a whole and not just a price today that will only last for a year. Medicare Supplement Plans policies A, B, F, G and N, which are designed to enhance your Medicare, can help a lot. If you want best Medicare supplement plans in Florida or Atlanta Medicare supplement rates we have you covered. If you want to compare Medicare supplement plans and rates online from multiple Medigap insurance companies without having to hear from sales people we are a great choice.   Learn all about Medicare: https://www.medicareonvideo.com

Medicare Supplement Plan G, also known as Medigap G, is a Federally standardized plan and it’s a true Medicare Supplement Medigap. The way that the Medicare Supplement Plan G works is that Medicare Parts A and B is your primary insurance. Because Medicare remains primary, you have nationwide coverage, even with your Medicare Supplement. So, you can go from one county to another or one state to another and have full coverage. Your coverage will remain exactly the same is every county or state you are in, as long as you go to a doctor or hospital that accepts Original Medicare. You will not need referrals or any prior authorizations. The only out-of-pocket costs you have if you have a Medicare Supplement Plan G is Medicare’s Part B small annual deductible of $183.00. Once you’ve met that deductible you have no further out-of-pocket costs for Medicare covered services nationwide.

Hey Medicare Nation! Over 17.5 Million of you are on a Medicare Advantage plan. And many of you have been, or know of a situation where your doctor has left the “network” and you are told by your Medicare Advantage Plan Carrier that you must find a new doctor. You tell your Medicare Advantage Plan carrier that you would like to change plans to keep your doctor, and they will tell you something that goes like this….”I’m sorry, you are unable to change plans mid-year. You will have to wait until the Annual Enrollment Period occurs to change plans, unless you have a special election. So….you’ll need to change doctors at this time.” Sound familiar? Well…..on today’s show, I’m going to discuss a “special election (SEP),” called – “Significant Network Change,” that many, many Insurance Agents don’t even know about. Revisions were made to the Medicare Managed Care Manual, which went into effect on April 22, 2016. The Significant Network Change Special Election Period, as written in the Medicare Managed Care Manual is listed as: “Pursuant to 42 CFR § 422.62(b)(4), enrollees who meet the exceptional conditions of being substantially affected by a significant no-cause provider network termination may be afforded a special election period (SEP). If CMS determines that an MAO’s network change is significant with substantial enrollee impact, then a “significant network change SEP” may be warranted. CMS will use a variety of criteria for making this determination, such as: (1) the number of enrollees affected; (2) the size of the service area affected; (3) the timing of the termination; (4) whether adequate and timely notice is provided to enrollees, (5) and any other information that may be relevant to the particular circumstance(s). The Medicare Advantage Organization will be required to notify eligible enrollees of the significant network change SEP if the SEP is granted by CMS. SEPs will not be granted when MAOs make changes to their network that are effective on January 1 of the following contract year, as long as affected enrollees are notified of the changes prior to the AEP.   According to the rules, if a Medicare Insurance Carrier makes a  “significant change” to one of their Medicare Advantage plan’s networks, that plan’s beneficiaries could possibly be granted a Special Election Period. This provider network change SEP allows beneficiaries “three months” to switch to traditional Medicare, with or without a stand-alone Prescription Drug Plan, or switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan, with or without Part D coverage. Whether or not beneficiaries qualify for this SEP is entirely up to CMS. CMS states in the Medicare Managed Care Manual that they may grant a provider network change SEP to beneficiaries based on some of the following factors: The amount of beneficiaries affected Whether or not beneficiaries received adequate and timely advance notice of the provider terminations The size of the plan’s service area The time of the year that the plan made changes to its provider network So…..if you have lost your primary care doctor, due to a non-cause termination in your Medicare Advantage Network, and it has caused you a “significant change” to your healthcare due to your doctor’s termination from the network, call Medicare and fight for this SEP! If Medicare denies your request for a SEP and you honestly feel you qualify under one or more of the criteria stated……. Call me and hire me to contact Medicare on your behalf! I have listed other Special Enrollment instances when you can make changes to your Medicare Advantage Plan outside of the Annual Enrollment Period. For a complete list, go to www.Medicare.gov   TRADITIONAL MEDICARE SPECIAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD Here’s quick guide to when you can make changes to your Medicare Advantage Plan: You can make your initial selection of a Medicare Advantage Plan when you enroll in Medicare at age 65. During the Annual Enrollment Period which is between October 15th through Dec 7th every year. You can dis-enroll from a Medicare Advantage Plan between January 1- Feb 14th, but you would have to go back on to Original Medicare because you cannot switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan at this time. You may have a “Special Election” that qualifies you to change your plan.   The Special Election Period that qualifies you to change your Medicare Advantage Plan, is what we want to focus on today.  There are certain circumstances which allow you to qualify for this option. If You Move If you move and your new residence is not in your plan service area. You would need to notify Medicare as soon as possible, because you have the rest of the current month you are moving and the following 2 full months as the Special Election Period. If you move to a new address and your plan is still in your service area, but by moving you now have new options available to you that you didn’t previously have, then you would have a Special Election Period to change to one of the new option plans. Snowbirds that live in 2 locations, have to determine which of those residences is your primary residence. Where you vote and where you pay taxes are going to determine which is your primary residence. If you move out of the country for a period of time and now you are coming back to live in the US,  that will trigger a Special Election Period. If you are moving into a long term care facility or a Skilled Nursing Facility with round the clock skilled nursing care, you would have a Special Election Period when you move into the facility, while you are residing in the facility and when you move out of the facility.  Losing Coverage: If you leave your Employer's Insurance Plan, or union through retirement, turning 65, etc. If you had an involuntary loss of drug coverage that was as good or better than Medicare drug coverage(credible coverage), that triggers a SEP. Or if you have had drug coverage through a Medicare Cost Plan and you leave the Cost Plan. If you leave a PACE (Program All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) Program. If you had Medicaid and lost eligibility because of income requirements.   When there are plan changes with Medicare Contracts: If your Medicare Advantage Plan was sanctioned by CMS, then you would be able to contact Medicare directly to request a Special Election Period  to choose another Medicare Advantage Plan. If Medicare terminated a contract with your Medicare Advantage Plan, that will trigger a Special Election Period and CMS will notify you.   Special Circumstances You qualify as a Medicare & Medicaid recipient, you may change Medicare Advantage Plans as often as you'd like! If you qualify for LIS (Limited Income Sources) you may get extra help with prescription drug coverage and a Special Election Period to enroll in a different Medicare Advantage Plan. During your Initial Enrollment Period for Medicare, you may have enrolled in a Medigap plan, and decided to change to a Medicare Advantage Plan during your first enrollment year. If you decide you want to change back to a Medicare Supplement Plan during your first year of coverage, you qualify. SNP Plan - for chronic conditions (Diabetes, Heart Disease, COP) - may change your current Medicare Advantage Plan to enroll in a SNP plan, or you may no longer qualify for a SNP, so you can choose another Medicare Advantage Plan. f an error was made by a federal employee when you signed up for Medicare, and you can prove it, you may be granted an SEP. If you have a Medicare Supplement - a Medigap plan, you can change plans whenever you want because there is no SEP for Medicare Supplement Plans. Precautions: If you have a chronic illness, cancer, cardiovascular disease or other medical conditions, a Medicare Supplement (MediGap) plan does not have to enroll you after your first year of enrollment. You need to be careful and make sure you are going to be able to get coverage when you change plans. The Medicare Supplement carrier may not take you due to pre-existing conditions and once you drop your Medicare Advantage Plan, you may be "locked out" and not able to re-enroll until the next open enrollment period..Medicare Supplement Carriers can discriminate due to pre-existing conditions! The price of Medicare Supplement plans do change as you age, and where you live. Keep that in mind.   Need more information on "Special Enrollment Periods?" See the entire list at www.Medicare.gov    Do you have questions or feedback? I’d love to hear it! I may answer one of your questions on the air! email me: support@themedicarenation.com Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe and leave a 5 star rating and review in iTunes! (Click here)     Find out more information about Medicare on Diane Daniel’s website! www.CallSamm.com  

Welcome Medicare Nation! We have a question today and I know many of you need this information!   MEDICARE SPECIAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD SHOW NOTES Here’s quick guide to when you can make changes to your Medicare Advantage Plan:   You can make your initial selection of a Medicare Advantage Plan when you enroll in Medicare at age 65. During the Annual Enrollment Period which is between October 15th through Dec 7th every year. You can dis-enroll from a Medicare Advantage Plan between January 1- Feb 14th, but you would have to go back on to Original Medicare because you cannot switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan at this time. You may have a “Special Election” that qualifies you to change your plan.   The Special Election Period that qualifies you to change your Medicare Advantage Plan, is what we want to focus on today.  There are certain circumstances which allow you to qualify for this option. If You Move If you move and your new residence is not in your plan service area. You would need to notify Medicare as soon as possible, because you have the rest of the current month you are moving and the following 2 full months as the Special Election Period.  If you move to a new address and your plan is still in your service area, but by moving you now have new options available to you that you didn’t previously have, then you would have a Special Election Period to change to one of the new option plans. Snowbirds that live in 2 locations, have to determine which of those residences is your primary residence. Where you vote and where you pay taxes are going to determine which is your primary residence. If you move out of the country for a period of time and now you are coming back to live in the US,  that will trigger a Special Election Period. If you are moving into a long term care facility or a Skilled Nursing Facility with round the clock skilled nursing care, you would have a Special Election Period when you move into the facility, while you are residing in the facility and when you move out of the facility.  Losing Coverage: If you leave your Employer's Insurance Plan, or union through retirement, turning 65, etc. If you had an involuntary loss of drug coverage that was as good or better than Medicare drug coverage(credible coverage), that triggers a SEP. Or if you have had drug coverage through a Medicare Cost Plan and you leave the Cost Plan. If you leave a PACE (Program All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) Program. If you had Medicaid and lost eligibility because of income requirements.   When there are plan changes with Medicare Contracts: If your Medicare Advantage Plan was sanctioned by CMS, then you would be able to contact Medicare directly to request a Special Election Period  to choose another Medicare Advantage Plan. If Medicare terminated a contract with your Medicare Advantage Plan, that will trigger a Special Election Period and CMS will notify you.   Special Circumstances You qualify as a Medicare & Medicaid recipient, you may change Medicare Advantage Plans as often as you'd like! If you qualify for LIS (Limited Income Sources) you may get extra help with prescription drug coverage and a Special Election Period to enroll in a different Medicare Advantage Plan. During your Initial Enrollment Period for Medicare, you may have enrolled in a Medigap plan, and decided to change to a Medicare Advantage Plan during your first enrollment year. If you decide you want to change back to a Medicare Supplement Plan during your first year of coverage, you qualify. SNP Plan - for chronic conditions (Diabetes, Heart Disease, COP) - may change your current Medicare Advantage Plan to enroll in a SNP plan, or you may no longer qualify for a SNP, so you can choose another Medicare Advantage Plan. f an error was made by a federal employee when you signed up for Medicare, and you can prove it, you may be granted an SEP.   *****You cannot get an SEP because your Doctor left the network******** If you have a Medicare Supplement - a Medigap plan, you can change plans whenever you want because there is no SEP for Medicare Supplement Plans.     Precautions: If you have a chronic illness, cancer, cardiovascular disease or other medical conditions, a Medicare Supplement (MediGap) plan does not have to enroll you after your first year of enrollment. You need to be careful and make sure you are going to be able to get coverage when you change plans. The Medicare Supplement carrier may not take you due to pre-existing conditions and once you drop your Medicare Advantage Plan, you may be "locked out" and not able to re-enroll until the next open enrollment period..Medicare Supplement Carriers can discriminate due to pre-existing conditions! The price of Medicare Supplement plans do change as you age, and where you live. Keep that in mind.   Need more information on "Special Enrollment Periods?" www.callsamm.com - has all of this information available for you. Download the Quick PDF List for Special Election Periods.   Do you have questions or feedback? I’d love to hear it! I may answer one of your questions on the air! email me: support@themedicarenation.com Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe and leave a 5 star rating and review in iTunes! (Click here)     Find out more information about Medicare on Diane Daniel’s website! www.CallSamm.com