Frequently Asked Question
What does Lifeline Medicare Solutions do?
Lifeline Medicare Solutions helps individuals understand Medicare coverage options, compare available plans, and get guidance from licensed insurance agents. Our goal is to make Medicare easier to understand so you can feel more confident about your coverage decisions.
Is your help free?
Yes, our services are free to you. There is no cost to speak with a licensed insurance agent, and you will never be charged for our help. By law, we cannot accept compensation from you for our services, and working with us does not increase your plan premium. If you enroll in a plan, any agent or agency compensation is handled by the insurance company and does not affect what you pay.
When should I start learning about Medicare?
It is best to start learning about Medicare a few months before you turn 65, retire, lose employer coverage, or become eligible due to disability. Starting early gives you time to understand your options, avoid mistakes, and prevent possible late enrollment penalties.
What are the main parts of Medicare?
Medicare has different parts. Part A helps cover hospital care. Part B helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment. Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, is offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. Part D helps cover prescription drugs.
What is the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?
Original Medicare includes Part A and Part B and is managed by the federal government. Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, is offered through private insurance companies approved by Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans often include extra benefits, and many include prescription drug coverage, but they may have provider networks and plan rules.
What is a Medicare Supplement plan?
A Medicare Supplement plan, also called Medigap, is private insurance that can help pay some costs Original Medicare does not cover, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Medicare Supplement plans work with Original Medicare and are different from Medicare Advantage plans.
Do I need prescription drug coverage if I do not take medications?
Many people still choose to enroll in prescription drug coverage even if they currently take few or no medications. Having Part D coverage can help protect you if your health changes and may help you avoid a late enrollment penalty in the future.
What is the Medicare Part D late enrollment penalty?
The Part D late enrollment penalty may apply if you go without Medicare drug coverage or other creditable prescription drug coverage for too long after becoming eligible. This penalty can be added to your monthly drug plan premium for as long as you have Medicare drug coverage.
Can I keep my doctor with Medicare?
It depends on the coverage you choose. With Original Medicare or a Medicare Supplement/Medigap plan, you can generally see any provider that accepts Medicare assignment. Medigap simply helps fill in some of the gaps in Original Medicare, so the same provider rules apply.
With Medicare Advantage, you may need to use the plan’s network of doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies to get the lowest cost.
Does Medicare cover dental, vision, and hearing?
Original Medicare usually does not cover routine dental, vision, or hearing care. However, some Medicare Advantage plans may include extra benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, fitness, transportation, or over-the-counter allowances. These benefits can vary by plan and location.
There are also standalone Dental, Vision, and Hearing plans available at low monthly costs, and we offer those options as well. Talk with us to learn what plans may be available in your area and which option may best fit your needs.
Can I change my Medicare plan every year?
Yes, many people review and change their Medicare coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. Changes made during this period usually begin on January 1 of the following year.
What is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from January 1 through March 31 each year. During this time, people already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan may be able to switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare.