Question 1

What is Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people age 65 & older, as well as certain younger individuals with qualifying disabilities or specific medical conditions.

Question 2

Who is eligible for Medicare?

Accepted Answer

You may qualify if you are 65 or older, have received Social Security Disability benefits for at least 24 months, or have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS.

Question 3

When should I enroll in Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, & ends three months afterward.

Question 4

What happens if I miss my enrollment period?

Accepted Answer

Missing your enrollment window may result in late enrollment penalties & delays in coverage unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Question 5

Is Medicare free?

Accepted Answer

Many people qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A, but most people pay a monthly premium for Part B. Other Medicare coverage options may also have premiums, deductibles, copays, & coinsurance.

Question 6

What is Medicare Part A?

Accepted Answer

Part A helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, & some home health services.

Question 7

What is Medicare Part B?

Accepted Answer

Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, medical equipment, & many routine medical services.

Question 8

What is Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)?

Accepted Answer

Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They combine Part A & Part B coverage & often include prescription drug, dental, vision, & hearing benefits.

Question 9

What is Medicare Part D?

Accepted Answer

Part D helps cover the cost of prescription medications.

Question 10

What is Medigap?

Accepted Answer

Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) helps pay certain out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare, such as deductibles, copayments, & coinsurance.

Question 11

How much does Medicare cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary depending on the type of coverage you choose. Expenses may include premiums, deductibles, copays, coinsurance, & prescription drug costs.

Question 12

Does Medicare cover prescriptions?

Accepted Answer

Original Medicare provides limited prescription coverage. Most beneficiaries enroll in a Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage.

Question 13

Does Medicare cover dental, vision, & hearing?

Accepted Answer

Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental, vision, or hearing care. Many Medicare Advantage plans offer these benefits.

Question 14

What is the difference between Original Medicare & Medicare Advantage?

Accepted Answer

Original Medicare allows you to see any provider that accepts Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans are offered through private insurers & often include additional benefits & provider networks.

Question 15

Can I switch Medicare plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Eligible beneficiaries can review & change plans during Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period & during certain Special Enrollment Periods if they qualify.

Question 16

How do I choose the right Medicare plan?

Accepted Answer

The right plan depends on your health needs, medications, preferred doctors, travel habits, & budget. A licensed insurance agent can help compare available options.

Question 17

What is Medicaid?

Accepted Answer

Medicaid is a joint federal & state program that provides health coverage for eligible individuals & families with limited income & resources.

Question 18

Who qualifies for Medicaid?

Accepted Answer

Eligibility varies by state & may depend on income, household size, age, disability status, pregnancy, or other factors.

Question 19

Can I have both Medicare & Medicaid?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some individuals qualify for both programs. These individuals are often called "dual eligible" beneficiaries.

Question 20

What does Medicaid cover?

Accepted Answer

Coverage varies by state but may include doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, long-term care, preventive care, & other medical services.

Question 21

Can you help me enroll?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our licensed agents can help you understand your options, compare plans, & guide you through the enrollment process.

Question 22

Do your services cost anything?

Accepted Answer

Our consultations are provided at no cost to you. We'll explain your options & help you choose coverage that fits your needs.

Question 23

What documents should I have ready?

Accepted Answer

It's helpful to have your Medicare card (if applicable), photo ID, prescription list, current insurance information, & a list of preferred doctors & pharmacies.

Question 24

Can I keep my current doctor?

Accepted Answer

That depends on the plan you choose. We can help verify whether your doctors participate in a plan's network.

Question 25

What if I travel frequently?

Accepted Answer

Some plans provide broader nationwide access than others. We'll help you compare options based on your travel needs.

Question 26

Can I change plans every year?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Medicare beneficiaries generally have an opportunity to review & change plans during the Annual Enrollment Period.

Question 27

Why should I work with Alliance Global Insurance?

Accepted Answer

We provide personalized guidance, compare multiple plan options, answer your questions, & help you find coverage that meets your healthcare needs & budget.

Medicare & Medicaid questions, answered