Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare in NC
With so many terms that are centered around Medicare, it’s hard to know exactly what you need to know. At NC Medicare Help, by The Independent Benefit Advisors, we understand that you may have some questions. We’ve put together a list of the commonly frequently asked questions we hear often, but if you have a question that you don’t see on this list, contact us online or call us at (919) 303-9690.
No, an individual can only pick one or the other. It is illegal to have both a Medicare Advantage plan and a Medicare Supplement plan.
You will never pay a fee for our services.
IBA is an independent brokerage insurance agency. We represent all major insurance companies, so we can help you find the right coverage and the best price for your unique situation.
Medicare offers prescription drug coverage to everyone with Medicare. There are two ways to get drug coverage. The first is Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D). These plans (sometimes called “PDPs”) add drug coverage to Original Medicare. The second is Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) (like an HMO or PPO) or other Medicare health plan that offers Medicare prescription drug coverage.
Medicare Part B covers some vision care, but not routine vision exams. You are not covered for vision correction such as eyeglasses or contact lenses under Medicare Part B unless you need vision correction after cataract surgery.
Medicare doesn’t cover most dental care, dental procedures, or supplies, like cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, dentures, dental plates, or other dental devices
You pay a premium each month for Part B. If you get Social Security, Railroad Retirement Board, or Office of Personnel Management benefits, your Part B premium will be automatically deducted from your benefit payment. If you don’t get these benefit payments, you’ll get a bill.
Most people will pay the standard premium amount. If your modified adjusted gross income is above a certain amount, you may pay an Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). Medicare uses the modified adjusted gross income reported on your IRS tax return from 2 years ago (the most recent tax return information provided to Social Security by the IRS).
The standard Part B premium amount in 2017 is $134 (or higher depending on your income).
A Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy, sold by private companies, can help pay some of the health care costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
As your independent consultant, we help you make this determination. We look at your doctors, medications, and medical needs to evaluate what coverage would be best for you. Our consultation is always at no cost to you.
You can enroll in Medicare during the seven-month period that begins three months before the month you turn 65. Coverage can start as early as the month of your 65th birthday.
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