3 Signs Your Insurance Agent Values You

Medicare and health plans can be complex, but understanding the basics can help you make informed decisions about coverage whether you are already on Medicare or just about to start. First, Medicare includes Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical), is provided by the government. Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Part B covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and medical supplies. Medicare doesnt cover everything, which means your cost may be higher on certain services.To provide additional coverage, many individuals opt to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) or Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D) to supplement their benefits. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers, these plans bundle Parts A and B and often include prescription drug coverage (Part D) and additional benefits, such as dental, vision, and hearing.Medicare Advantage plans vary in their networks of doctors, hospitals, and prescription drug coverage.  So, it is essential to carefully compare them to ensure they cover the doctors and prescriptions you need.Its important to consider your health status, the prescription medications you take, any chronic conditions you may have, even the gyms you go to. This will help you determine the plan and level of coverage you require. Its important to consider your budget when selecting a Medicare plan. Take into account monthly premiums, deductibles, and copayments each plan may have.For those just about to start Medicare you have a limited window of opportunity to choose a plan. Deadlines can apply when you turn 65 or when you choose to retire.   For those already on Medicare, health plans can change from year to year, including coverage, costs, and provider networks. So, taking time to review your options is important. The Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7) is your opportunity to reassess your Medicare coverage to ensure it still meets your needs. Finally, many find navigating this complex world of Medicare overwhelming. If this is you, then you are not alone. The solution is having a knowledgeable, licensed insurance agent by your side to ensure youre making the best choice for your healthcare needs. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Carleen Lachman. Carleen is an Independent Insurance Broker and owner of Prioritize Health. She may be reached at 724-571-4688 or by email at carleen@prioritizehealthpa.com. See ad on page 87.  

Having just completed another Annual Enrollment Period, reviewing coverage options and costs, I thought it appropriate to learn some interesting facts about Medicare. Since President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicare into law on July 30, 1965, millions of Americans have relied on it for medical care.Part A and Part B, called original Medicare, were included in the 1965 law. In 1997, Congress created Part C, now Medicare Advantage, the private insurance alternative. In 2003, lawmakers added Part D, covering prescriptions.Today, more than 67.4 million Americans are enrolled over 60 million are 65+ and 7 million are younger people with disabilities. President and First Lady Truman were the first Medicare beneficiaries.The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has 10 regional offices, serving approximately 125 million people with Medicaid and Medicare coverage.Medicare helped desegregate hospitals after the Civil Rights Act. To receive federal funding, hospitals had to comply and desegregate.51 million people are enrolled in Medicare Part B, which helps pay for physician, hospital, outpatient, some home health, and preventive services.Last year, over 16 million people chose a private Medicare Advantage plan, like an HMO or PPO, as an alternative to original Medicare.Currently, 41 million Medicare beneficiaries have prescription drug coverage through a Medicare health plan or stand-alone prescription drug plan.Some items and services Medicare doesnt cover include:         Eye exams (for prescription eyeglasses)         Long-term care         Cosmetic surgery         Massage therapy         Hearing aids and exams for fitting themAs we approach the 60th anniversary of the Medicare and Medicaid Act, keep in mind that if you need assistance with your Medicare decisions, a licensed advisor can help. Theyll learn about your health goals and budget, present options, and help you enroll. Crystal Manning has over 35 years of experience assisting clients.  Editors Note: This article was submitted by Crystal Manning. She can be reached at 412-716-4942 or crystalmanning33@gmail.com. You may also contact her daughter, Dvyona Sedlacko-Stephens, at 412-657-3889 or djsedlacko@gmail.com. See ad on page 85.  

Navigating Medicare can feel like trying to read a map in the dark full of options, acronyms, and fine print. If youre a senior or caregiver in Colorado Springs, youre not alone in feeling a little overwhelmed. Every fall, thousands of local residents sort through Medicare options to find the plan that fits their health, budget, and lifestyle best.Thats where AIS Medicare & More comes in. Serving Colorado seniors since 2008, the team at AIS takes pride in helping individuals and families make confident, informed decisions about their Medicare Advantage Plans with compassion, honesty, and expertise.Understanding Medicare Advantage PlansBefore diving into the details, lets start with the basics.Medicare Advantage Plans (also known as Medicare Part C) are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They bundle your Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) into one plan often with extra benefits like vision, dental, hearing, and prescription coverage.Unlike Original Medicare, which is administered by the federal government, Medicare Advantage Plans are designed to provide more personalized coverage options, often at lower out-of-pocket costs.Heres what many Colorado Springs residents appreciate most about these plans: All-in-one coverage (medical + hospital + often prescription) Predictable copays for doctor visits and prescriptions Access to local networks of providers Added perks like gym memberships, transportation, or telehealth services Every persons situation is unique, says Jolynn Allen from the AIS Medicare & More team. We take the time to understand each clients medical needs, preferred doctors, and budget before recommending any Medicare Advantage Plan. Its not just about finding a plan its about finding the right fit. Why Medicare Advantage Is Popular in Colorado SpringsColorado Springs has one of the fastest-growing senior populations in the state. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 13% of residents in El Paso County are age 65 or older a number that continues to rise each year. With the regions active, health-conscious lifestyle, its no surprise that Medicare Advantage enrollment is on the rise.In fact, more than 50% of Colorado Medicare beneficiaries are now enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan a significant increase from just a decade ago. The appeal? These plans often include added benefits that complement the lifestyle many seniors enjoy in southern Colorado outdoor activities, preventive wellness, and flexible healthcare options that fit active living.Local Insight: Healthcare Access in Colorado SpringsColorado Springs boasts a robust healthcare network including major providers like UCHealth Memorial Hospital, Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, and numerous specialty clinics. Many Medicare Advantage Plans available through AIS partner with these local systems, ensuring seniors can continue care close to home without disruption.How AIS Medicare & More Simplifies the ProcessLets face it: Medicare can feel like alphabet soup. Between Parts A, B, C, and D plus supplemental plans and state programs its easy to get lost.The AIS Medicare & More team takes pride in cutting through the confusion. Their licensed agents meet with seniors one-on-one in person, by phone, or online to review options in plain, simple language.Heres how they help: Education First They explain how Medicare works, what each part covers, and where Advantage Plans fit in. Personalized Comparisons AIS reviews multiple carriers and plans available in Colorado Springs never just one company to ensure the best match. Annual Policy Reviews Medicare needs change. AIS stays in touch year after year, helping clients adjust coverage as their health or budget evolves. Lifetime Support Their agents handle claims, paperwork, and billing questions directly clients call AIS, not a call center. This commitment to lifelong service is what makes AIS Medicare & More such a trusted name in southern Colorado. Were not just here to sign you up and disappear, Jolynn adds. Were your partner in Medicare year after year. The Benefits of Working with a Local Medicare ExpertWhen it comes to Medicare, local knowledge matters. Colorados healthcare networks, costs, and available plans can vary dramatically by county. Thats why working with a Colorado Springs-based team makes a difference.AIS agents understand the region from which providers accept certain plans, to which hospitals offer better rehabilitation options, to which pharmacies are most convenient for seniors on the west side or in Monument.Plus, local agents bring something big national hotlines cant: relationships. AISs advisors have built strong partnerships with local healthcare offices, senior centers, and community organizations making it easier to connect clients with resources beyond just insurance.Medicare Advantage Plan HighlightsEvery Medicare Advantage Plan is different, but here are some features that many Colorado Springs seniors look for: Low or $0 monthly premiums Prescription drug coverage (Part D) Routine dental, hearing, and vision care Transportation for medical appointments Fitness and wellness programs (like SilverSneakers) Worldwide emergency coverage for travelers AIS Medicare & More takes the time to review these benefits in detail, helping clients weigh the costs and advantages before they enroll.Medicare Advantage and Financial Peace of MindHealthcare costs can be unpredictable, but the right plan brings structure and reassurance. Many Medicare Advantage Plans offer maximum out-of-pocket limits, meaning you know the most you could spend in a year.This predictability allows retirees on fixed incomes to plan ahead and that financial peace of mind is something AIS values deeply. Theyll walk through each cost breakdown, from copays to coinsurance, so there are no surprises later.Community Connection: More Than InsuranceAIS Medicare & More is rooted in service. Beyond helping clients choose Medicare Advantage Plans, they also assist with Medicare Savings Programs, Extra Help for prescriptions, Veterans benefits coordination, and Long-Term Care Medicaid guidance.The goal? To ensure seniors in Colorado Springs make the most of every benefit available to them.That holistic approach has made AIS a trusted partner for thousands of families across southern Colorado.Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare Advantage PlansQ1. What is the main difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage? Original Medicare is run by the federal government and doesnt include extras like prescription, vision, or dental coverage. Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private insurers and bundle those benefits together.Q2. Can I keep my doctor with a Medicare Advantage Plan? Often, yes but it depends on the plans network. AIS helps clients confirm whether their preferred doctors and specialists are covered before enrolling.Q3. Whats the enrollment period for Medicare Advantage? The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, you can switch or enroll in a new plan.Q4. What if I travel frequently or spend winters elsewhere? Some Medicare Advantage Plans include national or even international coverage for emergencies. AIS helps identify plans that suit your lifestyle.Q5. How much does it cost to work with AIS Medicare & More? Their services are completely free. AIS is compensated by the insurance companies, not by clients meaning you get expert advice without paying a dime.Your Next Step: Get the Right Medicare Advantage Plan for YouWhether youre enrolling for the first time or exploring new options, AIS Medicare & More in Colorado Springs is ready to help you navigate Medicare with confidence. Their friendly, experienced agents are here to answer questions, compare plans, and make sure you understand every detail.Dont face Medicare alone let a local expert guide you. Visit AIS Medicare & More on SeniorsBlueBook.com to schedule a free Medicare consultation today.Learn more or get in touch through their SeniorsBlueBook.com listing.