Frequently Asked Questions
Does Original Medicare cover dental?
Unfortunately, it does not. Alternatively, click on this link for a Dental Plan, this is not insurance, but a plan. Since Original Medicare does not cover dental, this is a plan option that I like, this is not an insurance policy. https://karlablake.1dental.net/
Why do different Medicare Supplemental Insurance companies charge different premiums for the same plan?
Premiums are calculated on claims history. The amount a company has actually paid in claims and the claims loss ratio are all factors. A company that adheres to the Medicare suggested 65% claims loss ratio will actually be cheaper over the years. The key factor to look at is the percentage amount of increases per company over the years. The company with the lowest percentage is actually the cheapest in the long run.
What is the distinction between Issue Age, Attained Age and Community Rated?
Issue age premiums are based on your age at the time of issue, premiums are lower for people who buy at a younger age and won’t change as you get older. Premiums may go up because of inflation, but not because of your age.
Attained age premiums are based on your current age and go up each year as you get older, they are low for younger buyers but go up as you get older and eventually become the most expensive. Premiums may also increase because of inflation.
Community rated generally have the same monthly premium for everyone who has a policy regardless of gender or age and can go up based on inflation, but not age.
Can I move out of state and take my Medicare Supplemental Insurance with me, or do I have to buy a new policy in my new state?
All standard Medicare Supplement Plans are portable, so there is no need to change when moving.
I will be 65 soon and have some health problems; will I have trouble passing under writing?
Have no fear, you have an open enrollment period when you first enroll in Part B. Whether at 65 or older, during this period, you are guaranteed coverage regardless of any current or pre existing conditions. All waiting periods for pre-existing conditions are also waived.
I have health problems and my group insurance policy has actually gotten quite pricey. Could I move to Medicare and a Supplemental Policy even though I have pre-existing conditions?
Yes, you have guaranteed issue rights for a supplement with all health conditions accepted and any waiting periods waived regardless if it’s voluntary or involuntary. You must enroll in a supplement within 63 days of leaving the group plan.
Can I take a trip within the U.S. and still be covered by my Medicare Supplement Plan?
Yes. One of the main advantages of Original Medicare with a Supplement is the ability to go to any doctor, any specialist, any hospital nationwide, as long as Medicare is accepted. A Medicare Supplement is your secondary coverage.
Is it possible to make changes to my Supplement? If so, when?
Yes. A Medicare Supplement can be changed at anytime during the year. While a Medicare Advantage plan can only be changed during the open enrollment which is from Oct. 15th to Dec. 7th.
How do I make changes to the Part D prescription plan?
Part D plans can only be changed once a year during the open enrollment period which runs from Oct. 15th to Dec. 7th.
Does Medicare give me any coverage if I am outside of the country and need health services?
Medicare does not work outside of the country. However, when you have a Medicare Supplement, you have coverage for emergencies for the first 60 days of your trip. That coverage has a $250 deductible and a $50,000 maximum. If traveling outside of the country, travel insurance is recommended.
How can I find out if my physician accepts your coverage?
A Medicare Supplement Policy is a supplement to your Medicare. As long as your doctor accepts Medicare he has to take your Supplement. However when someone is enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan the doctor must carry that specific plan in order for you to be able to see that doctor.