Medicare Tips

By Amy Regenstreif  11/19/21

Amy Morrison Regenstreif is a 20 year LMS survivor and former health insurance agent. She often shares her wisdom with LMS patients on the LMSDR Facebook group.

You have to wait 2 years on social security disability (SSDI) to get on Medicare as a disabled person. Or of course, you are eligible when you turn 65 years old.

Open enrollment is twice a year: at the end of each year, and believe it or not, around your birthday!

 Medicare is structured much like regular health insurance. There is “managed care” HMO and regular Medicare with a multitude of companies offering their supplemental plans.

 You absolutely should call your medical center when transitioning to see which companies they accept. Speak with a social worker. See if you can find a local in-person experienced agent to consult with. If they have been selling for years, then they should know a lot. Compare health insurance companies, if possible.

 Medicare is sold by licensed insurance agents, even on the phone. Don’t be fooled by managed care advertising. They reel you in by offering gym memberships, eye glass coverage, dental, etc.  But when you need care for cancer, like an ablation, and they say “no.”

Don’t buy anything on your first phone call to Medicare.  The insurance agents get bonuses when they sell to you on the phone. They often omit vital information.

 You can always get a good quote for procedures and visits in advance by asking for medical codes and then what the contracted amount is with Medicare and your supplemental plan. Make sure your plan is accepted where you are treated and that you have flexibility.

 Do your homework!