Michael R. Munson "The Coverage Coach"

Continuation from last post

Q: "So if I'm not already enrolled in Medicare, I can keep my Access Health Plan and avoid any penalties for Part B?"

A: Access Health CT coverage is generally not considered credible coverage for Medicare Part B. Medicare Part B is the medical insurance portion of Original Medicare, and it covers services such as doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and some home health care. Access Health CT primarily provides health insurance plans through the ACA Marketplace for individuals under 65, and it may not meet the specific standards required for Medicare Part B.

If your plan is to delay enrollment onto Medicare part B, you need to ENSURE you current plan is considered credible. You can do this by contacting Access Health, an independent broker, or Medicare/SS.

Credible coverage for Medicare Part B typically includes employer-sponsored health insurance, government-sponsored plans like TRICARE or Veterans Affairs (VA) coverage, and other qualifying health insurance options. These types of coverage are considered credible because they meet certain requirements established by Medicare.

Q: "Mike, I just turned 65 and have a plan through Access Health CT. It is a great plan and I barely pay anything for it. Can I stay on this plan even though I am Medicare eligible?"

A: The answer is yes, you can stay on that plan while enrolling onto Medicare. Medicare will be primary, and the Access Health plan will be secondary as long as premiums are continuing to be paid. It is important to understand that if you become eligible for Medicare, you will no longer be eligible for premium tax credits through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, including Access Health CT. Premium tax credits are designed to help individuals and families with lower incomes afford health insurance coverage on the Marketplace.

Since Medicare is a government-sponsored health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older (as well as certain individuals with disabilities), it is considered minimum essential coverage under the ACA. As a result, individuals who are enrolled in Medicare are not eligible for premium tax credits.

Q: Should I contact an independent broker or just call a company and enroll myself?

A: This is a common question and the answer can be different for everyone. Dealing with a company directly is a hands on approach and some individuals like to be in control. When it comes to Medicare, there are a handful of options to consider, so it can be a time consuming process. I will lay out a few perks of working with an independent broker..

Impartial Advice: Independent brokers offer unbiased advice since they are not limited to promoting the products of a single insurance company. They can assess a client's needs and recommend the most suitable insurance policies from various providers.

Multiple Options: Independent brokers have access to a wide array of insurance options, including health, life, auto, home, business, and more. This variety allows them to tailor insurance solutions to their clients' specific situations.

Advocates for Clients: Brokers work on behalf of their clients, not the insurance companies. They help clients understand their coverage options, assist with claims, and provide ongoing support throughout the policy term.

Customized Coverage: Brokers can help clients customize their insurance coverage to ensure it aligns with their unique requirements. This may involve selecting specific policy features, limits, deductibles, and more.

Comparative Shopping: Independent brokers can compare policies and quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best value for their clients' budgets.

Expertise and Knowledge: Brokers are knowledgeable about various insurance products and industry trends. They can provide insights into policy terms, coverage details, and regulatory changes.

Local Presence: Many independent brokers operate locally, which can be beneficial for clients who prefer face-to-face interactions and personalized service.

Q: When can I enroll onto Medicare?

A: The eligibility age for enrolling in Medicare in the United States is typically 65. You can generally enroll during a seven-month window that includes the three months before your 65th birthday, the month of your birthday, and the three months after your birthday. This is known as the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP).

However, please note that there can be variations and exceptions based on your specific circumstances, such as if you're already receiving Social Security benefits before turning 65, or if you have qualifying disabilities. It's important to be aware of the enrollment periods and any special circumstances that might apply to you.

It is my personal goal to help people in Connecticut cut through tension that comes with Medicare. The constant phone calls, mailings, and nonstop television commercials can become overwhelming. Most people just need to have one conversation to simplify everything and thoroughly understand their options.

With a rise in social media users, I am aiming to begin spreading information that I hope CT residents find useful. Please feel free to follow my page for daily informational posts on Medicare basics, Live Q&A's, and 24/7 messaging.

-Mike

I am an independent broker located in Farmington, CT! I work in-person all across the state helping folks learn about their supplemental options as they transition onto Medicare! I work with major Medicare providers like United Health Care, Aetna, Anthem, Connecticare and CarePartners. I meet with my clients in their homes, at a local establishment, or in one of our offices. Also, there is no fee for me to help you out!