Archive for the ‘Medicare Supplement’ Category

If you have Medicare Part B, you can get your flu shot each year.  You can visit the link to the right for the medicare website with information on the flu shot benefit or you can visit the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services official flu informational site -> here.

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services official flu informational site -> here also includes information on the N1H1 as well.

All day yesterday I sat in on a certification class to be able to offer the local Humana HMO Medicare Advantage plan.  I was one of about 20 people in the class and I must say that  I need to RE-STRESS what I said in an earlier post a few months back.  Before I re-stress my point, I have to say that this in no way reflects anything on the Humana products, this post is entirely about the agents “selling” you products.  Humana’s products are just as good as all the others, if used in the right situation.

While in class I found myself surrounded by a bunch of people, which only 2 of the 20, would I consider half way ready to advise you on a solution for your situation.  Most only sold the Humana products, several only did this as a part time job because it is “Medicare Season” (sounds like they are hunting you like deer or something),  Several were independent agents but did not even offer supplements or said they did offer supplements and advantage programs but mostly talked people out of the supplements.

I must say I am concerned with the knowledge, or motivation of alot of agents selling medicare products that I have run into the past couple of years

Most of the halfway smart agents know there is a huge selling opportunity in the Medicare market, but that does not qualify them to assist you with picking a plan

So going back to my point with this post, you need to make sure you pick an agent that has all the options available and can walk you through the pros and cons of each plan so you can choose the one that is right for you.  Here is a link to my earlier post on how to pick an agent -> Here

Of course you can always call us for a second opinion- 816-254-6100 or toll free 1-888-262-0003

Happy Halloween!

Travis

Learn What You Need to Know about Medicare, and How to Pick the Perfect Supplement Plan!

Independence, MO – One of the biggest fears that many people have today is the fear of turning 65 and having to figure out their own benefits with no knowledge of how the Medicare system works or who to contact.  Most people end up just trusting what their sales agent tells them they need and find themselves with hundreds if not thousands of dollars in medical bills left for them.  Most of the public does not know what plans are available to them and get their information from a green sales agent or commercials on TV.  Did you know Medicare Benefits during the year 2010 have the most changes since 2006, which could affect anyone on Medicare!  A community informational workshop presented by Travis Gensler, local advisor who specalizes in Medicare Plans.

At this workshop, you will learn:

• How to sign up for your Medicare benefits and the eligibility requirements
• How to find out what is and is not covered by Medicare Part A & B
• What is a Medicare Supplement or Medigap plan
• What is the Medicare Advantage program
• What is Part D and why do I need it
• The 5 questions you need to ask to pick the perfect advisor to work with
• The 10 questions you need to ask to pick the perfect plan
• How the current changes and healthcare debate will affect the future of Medicare

Workshops 10am – 12pm on the following dates:

Nov 10^th        Nov 17^th        Nov 24^th        Dec 1^st           Dec 8^th

Attendance for this workshop is free, but seating is limited. 

 You can reserve your spot by calling 816-228-8000. 

These classes will fill up quickly, so call right away!

Class Location: 201 W. Lexington Ave, Suite 301 (3^rd floor), Independence, MO 64050

Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the Federal Medicare Program. For educational purposes only, no company or plan specific information will be available.

Gearing up for the upcoming Annual Election Period for those on Medicare Advantage or a PDP plan, things are starting to get a little crazy.  All of the recertification classes have been scheduled, online tests have been taken and I must say that I wish there was an easier way to get recertified.  Not only have I had to get recertified, but there are new companies releasing products in the areas that I am licensed, and getting approved by them is much more time consuming than recertification.

Being and independent agent is tough and time consuming on the backend, but the value of what I can bring to my clients is priceless.  If you are looking for a resource to help you understand your benefits, I suggest searching for an independent agent with access to multiple companies because they can truly be an advisor to you.  Suggesting a plan that fits your needs for the long run is much better than selling you the only thing they have in their bag.  Much better for you anyway.

Feel free to give us a call at anytime with any questions, we are more than happy to help!

Travis

1-888-535-0999 toll free

Training on the updates for the 2010 year plans are starting to be released by the different companies.  Whether it is for a Medicare Supplement, PDP (drug plan), or the Medicare Advantage plans, it takes a lot of time to keep up on the changes.

Which brings me to my main point, with all the changes that are taking place this year and the changes that we expect to take place over the next few years, make sure your advisor is keeping up so they can give you good advice.  With the number of seniors entering Medicare increasing each year, I also see a flood of new agents that are trying to make a quick buck.  A few questions so ask to make sure you have a good agent:

1. Are you an independent agent, and if so, how many companies are you certified to provide plans from.  (always be aware of the agents that can only provide plans from one company.  If you know anything about insurance, you know there is not one perfect company that works for everyone’s needs.
2. Is your agent accredited by the Better Business Bureau?  To apply with the Better Business Bureau, you have to be in business for a minimum of two years and also not have any complaints on your record before they will even consider your application for accreditation.
3. Does your agent show you options, or tell you that “this is the plan you need”.  Your agent should educated you on your options, with pros and cons and allow you to decide what you feel most comfortable with.  You should not feel dumb for asking questions, it is the agents job to provide you the information so you can make a good decision.

Always ask around to those who have been through the process, make sure you are never pressured and do not hesitate to get a second opinion.

Feel free to call us at 1-888-535-0999 if we can be of help in any way!

Travis