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You've made it. You're finally eligible for Medicare! But where to start? What do you need to know to make the transition from your employer provided benefits plans? There's Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D, as well as a whole host of Medicare supplement (Medigap) policies to choose from. Then all those acronyms, like SNF, SLMB, SHIP, and SPAP — and those are just the ones that start with "S".
We know the whole process can be quite confusing. That's why at NBS it's our goal to make the switch to Medicare as smooth and painless as possible, while ensuring you receive comprehensive coverage that works best for you. We'll carefully guide you through the process of obtaining your Medicare Parts A & B then work with you to help fill in the gaps of that coverage so you have a plan that's tailored to your specific needs.
As an independent agency, we can provide all Medicare supplemental options from all carriers.
There are several Medicare Supplement Plans from which to choose with different premiums and coverage options. We'll help you navigate all your options to help you choose the plan that's best for you.
After speaking with an NBS representative you'll complete a comprehensive Medicare questionnaire. We'll then create a customized plan based on your specific medical and prescription needs. We'll also assist you in limiting your annual out-of-pocket medical cost and help you figure out what you need to pay for the costs Medicare alone doesn't cover.
1. When is the Medicare open enrollment period?
When you're first eligible for Medicare you have a seven-month initial enrollment period to sign up to for Part A and/or Part B. Once your initial enrollment ends, you may have the chance to sign up for Medicare during a special enrollment period.
2. Are there pre-existing conditions that may affect my coverage or rates?
Pre-existing condition limitations do not impact Medicare coverage or rates, but may impact Medicare Supplement plan eligibility and/or rates.
3. What is Medicare Part D?
Medicare Part D is a federal government program to subsidize the costs of prescription drugs and prescription drug insurance premiums for Medicare beneficiaries.
4. What is the difference between a Medicare supplement and Advantage Plan?
Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap, are plans offered by private insurance companies to cover certain health costs not covered by original Medicare, while Medicare Advantage plans, also called Medicare Part C, are plans provided through private insurance companies and provide all of the benefits of Parts A & B or Medicare, with the exception of hospice care. These plans sometimes also include additional benefits such as vision, dental, and/or prescription coverage that are not covered by Medicare and a supplement.
5. How much will my prescription cost on Medicare?
Your costs for Medicare prescription drug coverage will vary depending on which drugs you use, which Medicare drug plan you join, and whether you get extra help paying for your drugs costs.