Well, it's a new year and a perfect time to set new goals.
And one of those goals
should be checking your health coverage
especially giving the unpredictability of last year.
Now, today we're talking about Medicare Advantage plans
and how you or someone you love
may be able to save money and get more benefits.
Now, joining me is Andromada Deberry,
a licensed insurance agent
and spokesperson for medicareadvantage.com.
So welcome.
Thank you, I'm happy to be here.
Well, Andromada, Medicare and health insurance in general
can be, I mean, just really confusing.
So can you clear up why it is important
for people to review their coverage regularly?
Yes, of course.
And that's a great question, Dr. Phil,
I'd like to remind everyone that your health is year round.
It never stops.
And so, it is so important to be aware of
what coverage you have.
when it comes to Medicare,
people have to consider that their circumstances may change.
Maybe they've moved.
Some people may be getting Medicare for the first time
or they may have another special situation
that qualifies them to enroll.
So tell me,
what is the difference between Original Medicare
and Medicare Advantage plans?
Sure, Original Medicare provides hospital
and medical insurance.
Now, it is good coverage
but it leaves you open to additional expenses
because it only covers about 80 percent
of your healthcare costs.
And with Original Medicare,
there is no limit to what you could pay out of pocket.
But the good news is,
Medicare Advantage plans provide the same coverage
plus there's an annual limit on your out-of-pocket costs,
and you may be able to receive additional benefits
including, vision, dental and hearing
all at no additional cost.
So Medicare Advantage plans sound great
but the question is,
are they expensive?
Well, that's the best part, Dr. Phil,
you may be eligible for a plan
that offers 0 dollar monthly premiums,
0 dollar deductibles or 0 dollar copays for many services.
And you may even be able to save money
and get additional benefits,
including, free rides to medical appointments
and expanded telehealth.
That's a lot for a 0 dollar monthly premium.
Do many people qualify for this coverage?
Yes, that's right.
In fact, about 93 percent of beneficiaries
have access to a 0 dollar premium plan.
So, it's a nice option
for those who are trying to stay on a budget.
Well, how about prescription costs though?
I know that's a big concern for many of my viewers
and cost are always on the rise.
Is there a plan that can help with those expenses?
Yes, absolutely, Dr. Phil.
Most plans include prescription coverage
and some offers 0 dollar out-of-pocket costs
on commonly used prescription drugs.
Well, this seems like a plan
everyone is gonna be interested in,
but who's actually eligible for it.
Well, if you're eligible for Medicare
then you may qualify for a Medicare Advantage plan.
Your plan options will vary depending on your location
and your circumstances.
To see if you're eligible to enroll,
it's best to speak with a licensed insurance agent.
Well, I've seen commercials talking about
getting money added back to your Social Security cheque.
Is that something possible with a Medicare Advantage plan?
Yes, it can be.
Some plans help you pay your part B premium,
which can add up to 148 dollars
back to your Social Security cheque each month.
So, Andromada, what would you say to people who may think,
this just sounds too good to be true
or they feel intimidated about calling someone for help?
Yeah, well,
I'd say that it's smart to seek out licensed professionals
who can answer your questions.
We have helped more than 11 million people compare
their options.
In fact, every 90 seconds
we help someone find the right plan for them
and our team is ready to help you too.
Well, so when somebody calls,
how exactly can you help them?
Well, we will help you determine
if you're eligible to enroll.
If so, we'll help you compare your options
and find the right fit for your health needs,
your budget and any other considerations you have.
And that may include finding a plan in a new area,
keeping your doctor, a gym memberships
or international emergency coverage.
Oh wow, well, Medicare Advantage really does sound
like a great option for a lot of people.
So, how can my viewers learn more about it?
Well, we've set up a special helpline
for your Dr. Phil viewers to call
for a free Medicare benefits review.
Now your viewers can call 1 800 961 0690
to speak with a licensed insurance agent,
and we'll guide you throughout the entire process,
so you never feel alone or confused.
Calls are always completely free and there is no obligation.
We want to help.
So call us now for your free Medicare benefits review.
Well, start this year off right,
or you or someone you love wants to learn
about your Medicare Advantage options.
This is a great opportunity.
So call that special helpline today
because these benefits are not automatic.
You have to take that first step.
So once again, it's 1 800 961 0690.
I want to thank Andromada Deberry,
thank you for being here today.
It's always fun to talk to you.
Yes, it's a pleasure.
Thank you.