Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan is a big decision
New Medicare Advantage options are coming in 2024
Get our New to Medicare guide for information to help you choose the right plan
Understanding Medicare
Behind every member, every call, and every interaction is an individual with a unique need. We recognize this and respond with real understanding every time. We want to be your companion — in any way we can. We can help you understand the different parts of Medicare, the costs, enrollment period, and more.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federally managed health insurance program providing coverage for people 65 and older and those with qualifying disabilities.
How much does Medicare cost?
Medicare can cover a lot of health expenses! How much you pay depends on what kind of coverage you choose.
When should you enroll?
You should enroll in Medicare when you first become eligible: when you turn 65, when you retire, or due to a disability.
Medicare Advantage that goes the extra mile
Working at 65
and beyond
Are you or your spouse working at 65? There are a few things you should know.
Ten ways
to walk more
each day
Walking is one of the best ways to meet your exercise goals. It doesn’t require any special equipment, and nearly everyone can do it.
Know your
heart health
Heart tests can help you and your doctor better understand your risk for heart disease. Here are three tests you should know about.
Still Have Questions?
South Carolina Medicare Plans
At Insurance Corner, our dedicated team is committed to assisting you in understanding and navigating your Medicare options, which include Medicare Supplements, Medicare Advantage Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. Whether you are approaching retirement, turning 65, or already enrolled in Medicare, our agents are available to address your inquiries and provide support throughout the enrollment process.
Medicare plans are not universally tailored to every individual’s needs, and it’s important to recognize that you don’t have to tackle this process by yourself. Our team is here to offer guidance, answer your questions, and ensure you make informed decisions regarding your Medicare coverage, all without charging any fees for our services.
Medicare plans are not always one size fits all and you don’t have to navigate this process alone. We are here to help!
It’s essential to understand that Insurance Corner’s offerings do not encompass every plan accessible in your locality. Our agency currently collaborates with 10 organizations, providing access to a total of 60 plans available in your area. The information we provide is specific to these plans within our portfolio. For a comprehensive overview of all available options, we encourage you to reach out to Medicare.gov, dial 1-800-MEDICARE, or contact your local State Insurance Health Plan. These resources can offer a broader perspective on the full spectrum of choices at your disposal.
Medicare Advantage Plan (Medicare Part C)
Your coverage options
Medicare Advantage plans are provided by private insurance companies with the aim of administering both your Medicare Part A (inpatient) and Medicare Part B (outpatient) benefits. These plans are obligated to adhere to guidelines set forth by CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) and are required to offer benefits that are at least as comprehensive as, if not superior to, those provided by original Medicare.
Medicare Advantage Plans
In order to be eligible for a Medicare Advantage Plan, also referred to as “Part C,” you must be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B, commonly known as “Original Medicare.”
Medicare Advantage plans come in various types, each designed to cater to individual needs. Some of these plans include Prescription Drug Coverage, while others may not. Additionally, they may offer supplementary benefits that go beyond what Medicare provides on its own. The specific options available can vary from one plan to another.
Types of Medicare Advantage Plans include:
- Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO) Plans
- Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO) Plans
- Private Fee-For-Service (PFFS) Plans
- Special Needs Plans (SNP) Plans
It’s crucial to understand that Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Supplements are distinct types of coverage, and you cannot enroll in both simultaneously. They serve different purposes and have their own set of benefits and features.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans
Medicare Supplement plans, commonly known as “Medigap” plans, provide supplementary coverage that you can buy from private insurance companies to fill in the gaps left by Original Medicare.
It’s important to note that Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are standardized by CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services). This standardization means that each specific plan must cover the same set of benefits, regardless of the insurance carrier offering it. While the benefits are consistent, premiums may vary between different insurance providers, and some plans may offer additional benefits beyond the standardized coverage.
Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan
“Original Medicare” does not include coverage for prescription drugs. To address this gap, Medicare Part D was established, offering optional Prescription Drug Plans for individuals enrolled in Medicare. These plans are provided by private insurance companies and must adhere to CMS guidelines. While this coverage is not mandatory, delaying enrollment in a Prescription Drug Plan when initially eligible can result in a permanent late enrollment penalty if you decide to enroll later.
There are two ways to access Medicare Part D Prescription Drug coverage:
Stand-Alone Prescription Drug Plan: These plans, offered by private insurance companies, supplement Original Medicare medical coverage and exclusively cover prescription drugs.
Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C): Some Medicare Advantage Plans include both medical and prescription drug coverage in a single plan.
CMS regulations prohibit Medicare beneficiaries from simultaneously having a Medicare Advantage Plan with Prescription Drug Coverage and a Stand-Alone Prescription Drug Plan.
Here are some quick facts:
- Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans are available regardless of current or past health conditions, meaning you cannot be denied enrollment.
- Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans allow a six-month period from the date you turn 65 or when Part B begins, whichever is later, for enrollment without answering health questions. After this period, you may be required to answer health-related questions, and insurance carriers can decline your application or adjust your premium based on health conditions.
Regardless of the plan option that suits your needs, it’s essential to keep your Red, White, and Blue Medicare card in a safe and easily accessible place.
At Insurance Corner, we understand that Medicare can be complex and overwhelming. Our licensed and certified agents are prepared to guide you through each aspect, step by step, and assist you in selecting a plan that aligns with your lifestyle.
At Insurance Corner, our dedicated team is committed to assisting you in understanding and navigating your Medicare options, which include Medicare Supplements, Medicare Advantage Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. Whether you are approaching retirement, turning 65, or already enrolled in Medicare, our agents are available to address your inquiries and provide support throughout the enrollment process.
Medicare plans are not universally tailored to every individual’s needs, and it’s important to recognize that you don’t have to tackle this process by yourself. Our team is here to offer guidance, answer your questions, and ensure you make informed decisions regarding your Medicare coverage, all without charging any fees for our services.
Local Agent. National Support.
You have the advantage of working with a local, independent agent who resides in your community and understands you on a personal level. Simultaneously, this agent is supported by a reputable national firm with nearly 35 years of service in the Southeast. This means you don’t have to make a choice between a personal connection with
