Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options and coverage levels to consider. You might be wondering: Where do I even start? The best place is with your personal health needs and goals—because the right Medicare plan should support your lifestyle, not complicate it.

Whether you’re approaching eligibility for the first time or considering a switch during Open Enrollment, here’s what to keep in mind to make the best choice for your situation:

1. Evaluate Your Personal Health Needs

Think about how often you visit the doctor, whether you have any ongoing conditions, and what your health goals are. Do you want access to specialists? Are you managing a chronic illness? Your answers will help determine which type of plan fits you best—Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, or a Medicare Supplement plan.

2. Look for Extra Benefits That Matter to You

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) offers essential coverage for hospital and outpatient care—but it doesn’t include things like vision, dental, or hearing. If those services are important to you:

• Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans often include those extra benefits.
• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans may help fill in gaps not covered by Original Medicare, including international travel and out-of-pocket expenses.

Since Advantage plans are offered by private insurers, costs and coverage can vary, so it’s worth comparing carefully.

3. Make Sure You Can See the Doctors You Trust

Is staying with your current doctor a must? If so, you’ll want to pay close attention to provider networks:

• Many Medicare Advantage plans require you to choose doctors and specialists within their network.
• With Original Medicare, you can typically see any provider that accepts Medicare.

If flexibility is a priority for you, this could be a major deciding factor.

4. Consider Prescription Drug Coverage (Even If You’re Healthy Now)

It’s easy to think you don’t need prescription drug coverage if you’re not taking any medications—but that can change quickly. Medicare Part D (standalone) or Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage can help you avoid high out-of-pocket costs in the event you need medications unexpectedly.

Skipping drug coverage now could lead to late enrollment penalties later—so it’s smart to plan ahead.

5. Do You Travel Frequently or Live Part of the Year Elsewhere?

Original Medicare offers limited international coverage, and most Medicare Advantage plans may only cover care within your plan’s service area. If you travel abroad or spend months in another state:

• Look into Medicare Supplement plans that offer foreign emergency coverage.
• Always check with your plan representative to confirm what’s covered before you travel.

Final Thoughts: The Right Plan Should Support the Life You Want

Choosing a Medicare plan isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about making sure your healthcare coverage fits your lifestyle and long-term needs.

That’s where Medicare Info can help. Our platform offers easy-to-understand information and connects you with licensed insurance insurance professionals who can walk you through your options.

Ready to Find the Right Medicare Plan for You?

Whether you’re new to Medicare or thinking about switching plans, now’s a great time to speak with a licensed agent from Medicare Info. They’ll help you compare plans, understand your benefits, and make the best choice for your health and budget.

Contact a Medicare professional today and get personalized help—at no cost to you!

If you’re exploring Medicare Advantage plans with dental benefits, it’s important to understand what’s covered—and what’s not—before you book that next cleaning.

Most Medicare Advantage plans that include dental coverage offer full benefits for preventive care, including:

• Routine cleanings
• Oral exams
• X-rays

These services are often covered at 100%, especially if you visit a provider within your plan’s network. While some PPO and HMO plans allow you to see any licensed dentist, you’ll typically pay less out-of-pocket by choosing an in-network provider.

What About More Extensive Dental Work?

Coverage for restorative procedures—like fillings, extractions, or crowns—varies significantly by plan. Some may cover a portion of the cost, while others might require higher copays or coinsurance. Always review your plan’s summary of benefits to know exactly what to expect.

Coverage Limits You Should Know

Keep in mind, dental coverage through Medicare Advantage may come with:

• Annual limits on preventive services
• Caps on coverage for major procedures
• Benefit maximums (i.e., the total your plan will pay for dental care each year)

These maximums can range widely, from as little as $10 to as much as $6,000, depending on the plan. It’s crucial to check with your provider so you’re not caught off guard.

Need Help Choosing the Right Dental Plan?

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Medicare Info connects you with licensed Medicare specialists who can walk you through your options and help you find coverage that fits your needs and budget.

Get started today and take the guesswork out of dental coverage.

When was the last time you reviewed what your healthcare plan really offers? Most people focus on the basics—doctor visits, prescriptions, and emergency care—but many plans come with additional perks that are often underutilized or completely overlooked.

Here are a few valuable benefits that might be included in your health plan, just waiting to be used:

Health Coaching

Whether you’re working on lowering your cholesterol, managing a chronic condition like asthma or diabetes, or simply trying to lose weight, health coaching can be a game-changer. These one-on-one sessions with wellness professionals provide personalized support to help you stay on track and reach your goals.

24/7 Nurse Hotline

Health concerns don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why many providers offer around-the-clock access to licensed nurses and medical professionals. Whether you’re wondering if your symptoms warrant a trip to urgent care or need advice on managing a minor illness, help is just a phone call away.

Cost Estimator Tools

Healthcare costs can vary widely, even within the same city. Many insurers provide online cost calculators to help you compare prices for procedures, tests, and visits. This tool empowers you to budget more effectively and avoid surprises when the bill arrives.

Diet & Weight Management Programs

Healthy living isn’t just about cutting calories. Many plans offer access to nutritionists, guided meal planning, and long-term lifestyle programs to support your overall well-being. These programs can make it easier to adopt habits that stick, without having to figure it all out on your own.

Take Advantage of What You’re Already Paying For

If any of these services sound like something you’d benefit from, now is a great time to contact your healthcare provider and ask what’s included in your current plan. You might be surprised by what’s available to you at little or no extra cost.

Whether you’re evaluating plans for the first time or considering switching providers, Medicare Info is here to help you navigate your options and make the most of your coverage. Don’t leave valuable benefits on the table—get informed, get covered, and get the care you deserve.

If you’re currently enrolled in Medicare or considering signing up, it’s essential to understand exactly what’s covered under your plan—and just as importantly, what isn’t. While Medicare provides comprehensive coverage for many healthcare needs, there are some health-related services that it doesn’t cover. Being aware of these exclusions can help you make more informed decisions about your care and ensure you’re not caught off guard when the bills come.

Here are some of the most common services that Medicare does not cover:

1. Routine Foot Care

Medicare typically does not cover routine foot care, such as the treatment of corns, calluses, or toenail care. While this may come as a surprise to some, it’s important to note that treatment for foot injuries or certain medical conditions related to the feet, such as diabetes, is covered. If you have specific foot health concerns, you may want to explore other insurance options or consult with your doctor about additional coverage for preventative care.

2. Cosmetic Surgery

Unless cosmetic surgery is medically necessary to repair or improve the function of a malformed body part or following an injury, Medicare will not cover elective cosmetic procedures. This means surgeries like facelifts, breast augmentations, or tummy tucks—intended purely for aesthetic purposes—will not be covered by your Medicare plan. However, if the surgery is needed for reconstructive purposes after an accident or illness, Medicare may cover part of the costs.

3. Orthopedic Shoes

While orthopedic shoes can be beneficial for individuals with specific medical conditions, Medicare coverage is limited. Medicare only covers orthopedic shoes if they are part of a leg brace. This means that unless your shoes are prescribed as part of a necessary medical device or treatment plan, you’ll likely need to pay out of pocket for these types of shoes or inserts.

4. Dental and Vision Care

Medicare generally doesn’t cover routine dental care, including cleanings, fillings, dentures, or tooth extractions. Additionally, most vision care services, such as eye exams for glasses or contact lenses, are not covered under Original Medicare. However, Medicare Part B may cover some vision-related services if you have certain medical conditions, such as cataracts or glaucoma.

5. Hearing Aids and Exams

Similarly, routine hearing exams and hearing aids are not covered by Medicare. If you need hearing aids, you will likely have to cover the cost yourself, or look into additional insurance options that may offer coverage for hearing-related services.

The Silver Lining: What Medicare Does Cover

While Medicare doesn’t cover every health service, it provides extensive coverage for a wide range of medical needs, especially those related to acute illnesses, hospital stays, doctor visits, and some preventive services. From routine screenings and vaccinations to prescription drugs (under Part D), Medicare ensures that a variety of your health needs are met.

Make Informed Decisions for Your Health Coverage

Before you choose a Medicare plan, it’s crucial to assess your unique health needs and consider any conditions or services you might require that aren’t covered under standard Medicare. Some additional coverage options, such as Medigap or Medicare Advantage, may help fill in the gaps left by Original Medicare.

If you’re still uncertain about which plan is best for you, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. At Medicare Info, we make the process easier by offering you expert information, resources, and access to licensed Medicare specialists who can help guide you through the decision-making process.

Have more questions or need help understanding your options? Connect with a licensed Medicare specialist today and take the first step toward securing the right coverage for your needs.

Understanding Medicare can be a challenge, especially with all the unique terms and rules that come with it. To help simplify things, we’ve broken down the five most important Medicare-related terms that you need to know:

1. Premium

Just like with private insurance, Medicare premiums are the monthly amounts you pay to maintain your coverage. While Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) doesn’t usually have a premium for those who qualify through their work history, Medicare Part B (medical insurance) and Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) both require monthly premiums. These premiums are essential for maintaining your coverage, but they don’t cover the full cost of your healthcare services.

2. Deductible

The deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before Medicare begins covering your services. For Medicare Part A, the deductible applies to inpatient hospital stays, while for Medicare Part B, it applies to outpatient services like doctor visits and lab tests. After meeting your deductible, you may still have additional costs, such as copayments or coinsurance, depending on the specific services you receive.

3. Copayment (Copay)

A copayment (or copay) is a fixed amount you pay for certain services after meeting your deductible. For example, Medicare Part B services often have a copay, like a set cost for a doctor’s visit. In Medicare Part A, rather than a copay, you might pay coinsurance for extended hospital stays. Copayments are a way for Medicare to share costs with you, reducing your out-of-pocket burden.

4. Coinsurance

Coinsurance is a percentage of the cost that you pay for services once you’ve met your deductible. For example, after your hospital stay under Medicare Part A, you might pay coinsurance for each day beyond a set period. In Medicare Part B, coinsurance typically involves paying a percentage of the cost for outpatient services, like lab tests or certain treatments, after your deductible is met.

5. Maximum Out-of-Pocket

Unlike many private insurance plans, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) doesn’t have a set maximum out-of-pocket limit. This means that once you meet your deductible and coinsurance obligations, you could still face significant costs for your care. However, Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans do have an out-of-pocket maximum, capping your yearly healthcare expenses. For those with Original Medicare, it’s important to budget for your healthcare costs carefully, as there is no cap on your spending.

Why These Terms Matter for Medicare

Understanding these terms is crucial when navigating Medicare. They help you anticipate and manage your healthcare costs, and knowing what each term means can empower you to make the best choices for your health and finances. Whether you’re new to Medicare or reviewing your current plan, being familiar with these terms will help you better manage your coverage and avoid unexpected costs.

Get Help Finding the Right Medicare Plan

Choosing the right Medicare plan can be complicated, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Medicare Info, we connect you with a licensed insurance agent who is ready to help you understand your Medicare options and find a plan that fits your needs and budget. Whether you’re considering Medicare Advantage, Part D prescription drug coverage, or simply reviewing your current coverage, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

HMO, PPO, EPO: Breaking Down Health Insurance Plans Without the Headache

Navigating health insurance can feel like learning a whole new language—HMO, PPO, EPO, copay, deductible… it’s enough to make your head spin.

But don’t worry—we’re here to simplify the jargon and help you understand the most important details so you can choose the best health insurance plan for your needs (and your budget).

Let’s break it down:

HMO: Health Maintenance Organization

Looking for a budget-friendly plan with predictable costs? An HMO might be for you.

• Lower premiums and fixed copays
• Requires you to choose a Primary Care Physician (PCP)
• Referrals needed to see specialists
• Only covers in-network providers

This plan works best if you’re comfortable sticking with one doctor and staying within a defined provider network. Just make sure you choose a PCP you trust—they’ll be your go-to for all things healthcare-related.

PPO: Preferred Provider Organization

If flexibility matters more to you, a PPO plan offers more freedom—at a higher price.

• Higher premiums than an HMO
• No referrals needed to see specialists
• Coverage for both in-network and out-of-network care
• Lower out-of-pocket costs when you stay in-network

A PPO is a solid choice if you regularly visit healthcare providers or want the ability to see specialists without jumping through hoops.

EPO: Exclusive Provider Organization

EPOs are something of a middle ground between HMOs and PPOs.

• Only covers in-network care
• Typically no referrals required
• Larger network than an HMO
• Premiums vary depending on the plan

This plan is great if you’re okay staying in-network but want a wider range of doctors to choose from—and fewer restrictions when seeing specialists.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the differences between HMO, PPO, and EPO plans can make choosing the right health insurance much easier. It all comes down to your healthcare needs, preferences, and budget.

At Medicare Info, we make it simple to explore your options. Our licensed insurance agents are here to help you find a plan that fits your life—and your wallet.

Ready to get started? Let us guide you to the coverage that works for you.

What is Medigap and Do I Need It?

Have you heard of Medigap and wondered how it differs from a Medicare Advantage plan? It can be confusing to navigate the world of Medicare options, but we’re here to break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.

Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage: Key Differences

• Premium Costs: Medigap typically has higher premiums compared to Medicare Advantage, which often offers lower monthly costs.
  
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: With Medigap, you’ll generally pay fewer out-of-pocket costs for medical care. On the other hand, Medicare Advantage tends to have higher out-of-pocket expenses.
  
• Where You Can Receive Care: Medigap is accepted nationwide, so you can receive care anywhere in the U.S. Medicare Advantage, however, is typically limited to specific regions and states.
  
• Provider Network: Medigap doesn’t require you to stay within a specific network of providers, while Medicare Advantage plans do, meaning you’ll need to use in-network doctors and hospitals for the best coverage.
  
• Prescription Drug Coverage: Medigap doesn’t include prescription drug coverage (Part D), so you’d need to enroll separately for that. Medicare Advantage, however, usually includes prescription drug coverage as part of the plan.

Navigating Medicare options can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you have more questions or need guidance, Medicare Info is here to connect you with a licensed health professional who is ready to provide you with personalized information and resources, making the decision process easier. Connect with a licensed Medicare specialist near you today!

Traveling This Summer? Here’s What You Need to Know About Medicare Coverage

Are you planning to travel within the U.S. this summer? The good news is that most doctors and hospitals accept Original Medicare. If you experience a sudden illness or injury, Medicare Part B typically covers emergency medical care while you’re away.

However, if you’re heading abroad, there are a few important details to consider. Medicare does not cover medical expenses incurred outside the U.S. This includes not reimbursing for prescription medications you purchase while overseas. That said, Medicare may cover certain services abroad, such as inpatient hospital care, ambulance services, or dialysis in foreign hospitals, but coverage is often limited.

For additional protection when traveling internationally, Medigap (Medicare Supplement insurance) can be a lifesaver. Medigap is designed to work alongside Original Medicare, helping to cover costs that Medicare doesn’t pay, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Importantly, some Medigap plans offer emergency medical coverage for situations that occur outside of the United States. This is a huge benefit for anyone who plans to travel abroad and wants peace of mind knowing they’re covered if an unexpected health issue arises.

Not all Medigap plans offer this benefit, so it’s essential to choose the right plan based on your travel needs. Medigap Plan C and Plan F, for example, offer foreign travel emergency health coverage, but you’ll need to check with your provider to ensure it’s included in your specific plan.

In addition to offering overseas protection, Medigap helps cover costs not included in Original Medicare, such as:

• Deductibles: Medigap can help you pay for the out-of-pocket costs associated with Medicare Part A and Part B deductibles.
  
• Coinsurance and Copayments: Medigap covers some or all of the coinsurance and copayments that Original Medicare doesn’t cover.
  
• Extended Hospital Stays: If you require additional hospital days beyond what Medicare covers, Medigap can pick up the cost.

If you’re concerned about medical expenses while traveling or want to reduce your out-of-pocket costs at home, Medigap can provide extra peace of mind.

Still unsure which plan is right for you? Fill out our form, and a live insurance expert from Medicare Info will reach out to you to discuss your options and get the coverage you need today!