Medicare Annual Enrollment

As we approach the Medicare annual enrollment period, it's essential to equip yourself with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage. My name is Carol Foley, and I am a licensed insurance agent, Medicare specialist, and small business benefits counselor with over 25 years of experience. Our offices are conveniently located right here in Hallandale, and we've dedicated ourselves to helping seniors, individuals, families, and small business owners find the coverage that suits their needs and budgets.

Our commitment is to guide you through the complex landscape of Medicare and insurance options. Before diving into the details of supplement plans, it's crucial to have a solid understanding of Medicare itself. At our agency, we've made it our mission to simplify Medicare and ensure you comprehend it thoroughly. What makes us stand out? Our dedication doesn't end after you choose a policy; we're here to support you throughout the life of your coverage.

We offer a wide range of insurance options, including Medigap plans, Medicare Advantage plans, Part D prescription drug plans, dental, vision, hearing plans, gap insurance, cancer policies, long-term care, life insurance, and final expense coverage. For those who aren't yet eligible for Medicare, we also specialize in health insurance solutions for the under-65 market, working with all major carriers and offering options under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare).

My clients describe me as patient, consultative, and ethical. They know I always have their best interests at heart, checking in frequently to ensure their plans continue to meet their needs. I'm accessible during evenings and weekends, and everyone has access to my cell number in case of emergencies. The best part? Our services come at no cost to you; we're compensated by the insurance companies we represent.

Medicare Open Enrollment
Medicare Open Enrollment is a crucial period for beneficiaries, occurring from October 15 to December 7 each year. This window offers beneficiaries the opportunity to review and make changes to their Medicare coverage. There are several compelling reasons why this period demands your attention:

Plan Review and Comparison: During open enrollment, Medicare beneficiaries can assess their current Medicare plans, including Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), Medicare Advantage, and Prescription Drug Plans. Comparing plans can help you find better options tailored to your specific needs.

Medicare Supplement Price Shopping: Did you know that all supplement plans are standardized? Plans like F, G, or N offer identical coverage, so why do prices differ so significantly among carriers? Open enrollment is the perfect time to price shop and secure the best pricing for your chosen plan.

Changes in Health Needs: Health requirements can change over time. During open enrollment, beneficiaries have the opportunity to evaluate whether their current coverage adequately meets their evolving healthcare needs.

Cost Savings: Medicare plans can alter their premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coverage from year to year. Beneficiaries can potentially find cost-effective options that better align with their financial circumstances.

Prescription Drug Coverage: Medicare Part D plans may change the drugs they cover and their pricing. Open enrollment ensures that Part D beneficiaries continue to receive coverage for their medications without substantial cost increases.

Network Changes: Medicare Advantage plans come with provider networks. Beneficiaries should verify whether their preferred doctors and healthcare facilities remain in-network with their chosen plan.

Plan Ratings and Quality: Medicare assesses the quality and performance of healthcare plans, including Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans. Utilize open enrollment to select plans with higher ratings and superior quality of care.

Medicare Savings Programs: Some beneficiaries may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs or Extra Help, offering assistance with Medicare costs. We can check your eligibility and help you enroll in these programs if you qualify.

Medicare open enrollment is the annual opportunity for beneficiaries to evaluate their healthcare needs, explore their Medicare coverage options, and make informed decisions to secure the most suitable and cost-effective coverage for the year ahead. Please take advantage of this time and speak with a Licensed Insurance Agent and Medicare Specialist.

Protect Yourself from Medicare Scams
As a Medicare specialist, part of my role is to guide clients on protecting themselves from Medicare scams. Safe-guarding your personal information and finances is vital to avoid falling victim to fraudsters. Here are some tips to help you protect yourself:

Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls or Emails: Medicare will not initiate contact via phone calls, emails, or in-person visits. Be cautious if you receive unsolicited communications claiming to be from Medicare.

Never Share Personal Information: Refrain from sharing your Medicare number, Social Security number, bank account details, or other personal information with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. If someone claims to be from Medicare, request their name, phone number, and a callback number. Verify their identity independently by calling Medicare directly at: 1-800-MEDICARE.

Protect Your Medicare Card: Keep your Medicare card in a secure location and only carry it with you when necessary. Avoid sharing your Medicare card or number with anyone except trusted healthcare providers.

Beware of Free Offers: Scammers often use the lure of "free" services, equipment, or medical supplies to trick individuals into sharing personal information. Medicare does not make such offers via phone calls.

Avoid Calling 1-800 Medicare Ads: Calling the numbers advertised on television can put you on call lists, leading to incessant phone calls. Instead, seek assistance from an independent agent you trust.

Protecting yourself from Medicare scams necessitates vigilance and skepticism when dealing with unsolicited communications or offers related to healthcare services. Always verify the identity of individuals or organizations claiming affiliation with Medicare before sharing any personal information.

If you have any questions or need assistance, I'm here to help. My team looks forward to working with you, and remember, our services come at no cost. We are also happy to simply review your current policy and review your coverage with you.

Carol Foley, Licensed Insurance Agent and Medicare Specialist
Main Line Benefits Co.
1980 South Ocean Dr, Hallandale Beach
610-639-5616
www.mlbenefitsco.com