Janell Sluga Medicare & Individual Health Insurance Account Executive View Bio

Lawley Medicare Solutions Learning Center:

Ask Janell!

 

QUESTION:  I’ve been receiving numerous phone calls from individuals claiming they are calling from Medicare to review my coverage. Are these calls really from Medicare?

 

ANSWER:  This is one of the most common questions I receive, and I can confidently say that these callers are not from Medicare. When you receive a phone call about your Medicare coverage or someone claiming to call on behalf of Medicare, my advice is to hang up. These calls are likely from insurance companies that contract with Medicare to offer insurance coverage, often Medicare Advantage Plans. Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, and Medicare Supplement Plans typically pay commissions to brokers who enroll individuals into these plans. These commissions could be a one-time payment or ongoing, depending on how long you stay with the plan.

For accurate and trustworthy guidance, we strongly recommend working with a licensed and dedicated Medicare Consultant. Our team at Lawley Medicare Solutions is committed to providing you with the most personalized and comprehensive advice tailored to your specific needs. Unlike unsolicited calls, we offer a thorough and transparent review of your options without the pressure of sales tactics.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rarely contacts individuals directly. If they do, it is usually because you’ve initiated contact to address an issue. CMS primarily communicates through mail, such as sending your Medicare Card, the Medicare & You handbook, and Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs). If you’re not receiving Social Security benefits, you may also receive a quarterly bill for your Medicare Part B premium from CMS.

Many people turning 65 or those already enrolled in Medicare report receiving frequent calls from insurance companies, often from the same company. These brokers may claim to be “calling regarding your Medicare coverage” or “on behalf of Medicare.”

Additionally, you may hear from your current insurance company about “additional benefits” you might be eligible for. This usually occurs when the company offers multiple insurance products, such as Medicare Supplement Plans and Prescription Drug Plans, and wants to introduce you to their Medicare Advantage Plan, which bundles these products into one. While Medicare Advantage Plans often feature lower premiums, they typically come with higher co-pays for care and may include extra benefits like health club memberships, eyewear discounts, dental coverage, or over-the-counter benefits. Some plans even offer a partial rebate on your Part B premium.

Switching to a Medicare Advantage Plan requires careful consideration of factors such as whether your doctors, labs, and hospitals are in-network and whether your medications are covered at your preferred pharmacy.

To help you navigate these complex decisions, our team at Lawley Medicare Solutions is here to offer expert guidance. Just as not every car suits every driver, not every Medicare plan is right for everyone. With numerous plans available throughout Western New York, choosing the right plan can be overwhelming. We take the time to understand your unique situation and provide personalized recommendations that fit your needs.

If you receive a call about your Medicare coverage or someone claims to be calling on behalf of Medicare, it’s best to hang up. If you’re interested in exploring your options, reach out to us. We’ll provide you with clear, unbiased information and help you evaluate your choices based on factors like your doctor network, preferred pharmacy, medications, and travel plans.
If you receive a new insurance card or a cancellation notice from your current plan and believe it might be incorrect, contact us for assistance. If you need immediate help, you can also reach out to The Office For the Aging or your previous insurance broker. It’s essential to act promptly if you wish to address or contest the new coverage.

At Lawley Medicare Solutions, our Medicare and Individual Health Consultants are dedicated to helping you make the most informed decisions about your healthcare needs. We offer personalized service and expert advice tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today by phone or email to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs.

 

Read all Inside Medicare articles HERE.

 

LAWLEY HAS A TEAM DEDICATED TO MEDICARE INSURANCE!

Our licensed Medicare & Individual Health Insurance team can help clients understand the details of Medicare insurance plans, assist with choosing the right benefits and coverage, and provide guidance when life events that affect health coverage occur.

For questions, concerns, or to reach Lawley Medicare Solutions, fill out the contact form below or call 716.849.1540.