Omaha's most trusted Medicare broker
As you reach the qualifying age for Medicare, a lot of questions start to come up. What is Medicare? How do I apply? What does it cover?
Enroll now with expert local bilingual guidance at (402) 972-0820.
Turning 65 soon? What to expect
At Midwest Health Insurance Solutions our bilingual agents can help get you on track to finding the best insurance plan for your needs at a price that fits your budget.
Here are some key things to expect when you reach out to our agents.
- We will review your plan if you already have Medicare insurance.
- For those turning 65 we can answer any and all questions about Medicare and how we can find the plan that works best for you.
- We will discuss the pros and cons of Medicare plans.
- We will review your needs and which doctors, prescription drugs and other ongoing treatments you’ll need in your plan.
- Our agents will help create a financially sustainable plan for your budget.
- We will also include your family, answering questions about how Medicare works and making sure they know you are receiving the best care available.
Important Dates
In order to save yourself time and money, here’s some dates and timeframes specific to Medicare timelines you want to make sure are circled on your calendar.
- Turning 63: If you’re able, start talking with an accountant or financial planner.
- Turning 64: Start learning important timelines, deadlines, coverage options, costs and penalties associated with Medicare.
- Oct. 15 – Dec. 7: The Annual Election Period is your time to enroll in Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription plans.
- Quarterly: Medicaid and Extra Help Beneficiaries may be able to change to their Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans from Jan 1 – Sept 30th.
- Yearly – Oct. 1: For many, this is the “lock in” period for Medicare Advantage plans and Part D drug plans. This may not apply to you if you’re part of the Special Election Period or use the Open Enrollment period.
- 25th Month of Disability: At this time, you are generally eligible for a variety of Medicare plans including: Medicare Part A & Part B, Medicare Part C Advantage Plans and Medicare Part D Prescription Drug plans.
- Turning 65 – At this age you are generally eligible for Medicare Part A & Part B, Medicare Part C Advantage Plans, Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans and Medicare Supplements (Medigap). You can enroll up to 90 days before your birthday.
Medicare Part A
Medicare Part A generally covers hospital expenses like inpatient care, nursing home care, skilled nursing home care, hospice and home health care. Your coverage can depend on local, state and federal laws or company decisions, so the best way to know if your care is covered is to talk to your doctor or health care provider.
Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B covers preventative and medically necessary services. These include things like clinical research, ambulances, the cost of medical equipment and many mental health services. Again, to make sure your coverage will be paid by Medicare, ask your doctor or health care provider.
Medicare Part C
Medicare Part C (Medicare Supplement), is a private health care option approved by Medicare. This coverage option would fill in the gaps that Part A and B don't cover, and can offer more coverage such as vision, dental, hearing and other health/wellness programs. These companies must follow rules set by Medicare, however each plan can charge varying out-of-pocket costs or have different rules for how you receive services that can change annually.
Medicare Part D
Medicare Part D covers your prescription drugs. These plans are offered by private companies and are either bundled into Medicare parts A and B, or as a package with a Medicare Advantage Plan. Each Part D plan covers a list of brand name and generic drugs, known as its formulary. If your drug is not included you may request an exception or pay out of pocket.
Some drugs that must be covered include:
- HIV/AIDS treatments
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotic medications
- Anticonvulsive treatments for seizure disorders
- Immunosuppressant drugs
- Anticancer drugs
Medicare Supplements
Medicare Supplements cover the gaps present in Original Medicare. The plans, offered through private companies, cover the costs like copayments, coinsurance and deductibles as well as services not offered by Medicare Part A and B like travel-related services. You can not buy Medicare Supplements if you have Medicare Advantage. Medicare Supplements come in a variety of options with varying costs and coverage.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage is also known as Medicare Part C. This is a private option that fulfills the coverage of Original Medicare, while allowing people to find more options on the private market.
Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans
When purchasing a Medicare Advantage Plan, also known as Medicare Part C, prescription drugs will typically be covered. Like purchasing a Part D plan, Medicare Advantage Plans are sold by private insurance companies and the level of coverage ranges in how much they cover. Some are not required to provide drug care at all and, depending on the provider and type of Advantage Plan, you can be excluded from purchasing another Medicare drug plan. It’s important to talk to a knowledgeable agent who can find and compare plans that meet your needs.
Enroll now with expert local bilingual guidance at (402) 972-0820.
