1. 11498 POINTS
    Jason Goldenzweig
    Co-Founder, TermInsuranceBrokers.com, Goldenzweig Financial Group, Las Vegas, Nevada
    Work with an independent Medicare insurance broker who can work with you on a personal level to help you determine which structure is best for your specific needs (MA or MAPD vs. Original Medicare + Medigap or Medigap and Part D).

    Depending on cost tolerance, I generally suggest to my clients securing a Medicare supplement (Medigap) plan and a standalone Part D prescription drug plan to go with your Original Medicare coverage (Part A & Part B). The advantage of this course of action is that it creates a very predictable healthcare expense structure instead of taking on the risk of receiving a massive bill for a hospital visit, procedure, examination, etc.

    I hope the information is helpful - please feel free to contact me for assistance with your Medicare program and if you have any other questions. Thanks very much.
    Answered on July 24, 2014
  2. 42 POINTS
    Joann Quinn
    Independent Agent & Medicare Supplement Specialist, reMEDIGAP, USA
    If you are looking for a Medicare Supplement Policy (Medigap), there are a few ways to find a Plan.

    When looking for a Medicare Supplement policy, an independent insurance agent will be able to shop the market and show you what is available in your area.  Independent agents are not employed by insurance companies.  This means they contract with many insurance companies allowing them to find the lowest premiums available.  Their flexibility also means they can help you locate an insurance company based on a health condition as well.

    You can contact the insurance carrier directly in some cases.  While this may seem convenient, it is often more expensive and you won't have an agent to help you with annual rate reviews.

    Captive agents work for one insurance company and can only offer Medicare Supplement insurance products from that company.  Premiums can vary.  What's important to note is that you don't have any choices because the captive agent can't shop the Medicare insurance market for you.
    Researching on the internet is an option, but can be time consuming.  Also keep in mind that most insurance companies do not make their premiums available to the public and will only work with a licensed insurance agent. 

    If you are considering a Medicare Supplement Policy (Medigap Plan), you'll want to make sure whoever you choose to work with will take the time to find out what plan will work well for you. 

    Most people choose Plan F because it covers all Medicare approved bills and they don't have to worry about deductibles, co-pays, co-insurance or excess charges.  Lately, Plan G has been popular because it works just like Plan F after meeting the annual Part B deductible of $147 (2014).  Plan G's premium is often lower than Plan F, making it more affordable for some.  These are not the only Medigap Plans...there are eight other Plans to choose from...that is why it is wise to speak to an agent who specializes in Medicare Supplement insurance.

    Thank you for taking the time to read my reply.  Please feel free to contact me if I can be of further assistance.
    Answered on July 24, 2014
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