For 2026, Medicare has set the following costs for Original Medicare:

- Part A (Hospital) deductible: $1,736 per benefit period

- Skilled Nursing Facility coinsurance:

- Days 1–20: $0 per day

- Days 21–100: $217 per day of each benefit period

- Part B (Medical) deductible: $283 per calendar year

- Part B coverage: Generally 20% after the deductible is met

- Standard Part B premium: $202.90 per month in 2026 (higher-income beneficiaries may pay more based on IRMAA)

Higher-income beneficiaries may also pay an additional Part D IRMAA amount on top of their Part D or Medicare Advantage prescription drug plan premium, depending on their 2024 Modified Adjusted Gross Income.

Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) are all-in-one alternatives to Original Medicare, often including prescription drug coverage and extra benefits like dental or vision. Medicare Supplement plans (Medigap) work alongside Original Medicare to help cover out-of-pocket costs like copays and deductibles. The best choice depends on your health needs, budget, and preferred doctors.

Our consultations and enrollment assistance are completely free to you. We're compensated directly by the insurance carriers we represent, so there's no cost or obligation when you work with us. You get expert guidance at no charge.

You can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period (around your 65th birthday), the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7), or during a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify due to life events like moving or losing other coverage. We'll help you understand your timeline and options.

No, we serve clients in both Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. We're licensed in Ohio (Trumbull, Mahoning, Columbiana, and Ashtabula counties) and Pennsylvania (Mercer and Lawrence counties). We focus on serving our local communities with personalized, face-to-face service whenever possible.

There are several ways to reduce medication costs. Many pharmacies offer discount programs, and services like GoodRx and SingleCare can help you find lower prices. You can also explore Canadian pharmacies or Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drug Company website for affordable options. Always compare prices and discuss your medications with your agent during plan reviews.

Your planned treatments should be discussed with your agent every Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). This ensures your plan continues to cover the care you need. We'll review your upcoming treatments and make sure your coverage aligns with your healthcare needs.

The Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7) is the best time to change plans if you develop a new diagnosis. Additionally, there may be a Chronic Special Needs Plan available in your area that's specifically designed for your condition. Contact us to explore your options and find the right plan for your health needs.

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) like oxygen therapy is typically covered by Medicare, but coverage varies by plan. Some plans offer more comprehensive DME benefits than others. Reach out to us for plan-specific information about how your COPD treatment and oxygen therapy will be covered.

Special Needs Plans (SNPs) are Medicare Advantage plans designed for people with specific diseases or characteristics. Many of the commercials you see advertising higher dollar benefits are typically marketing these types of plans. SNPs provide tailored benefits and care coordination for those who qualify based on chronic conditions, dual eligibility, or institutional care needs.

Some Medicare Advantage plans, both SNP and non-SNP, may cover medical alert systems as an extra benefit. Additionally, I sell medical alert systems through NOMO. Contact me to find out if your plan includes this coverage or to learn more about purchasing a system.

Yes, Medicare Advantage plans can work well in rural areas. Even if you're on an HMO plan, if there are no in-network specialists in your area, you may be able to see an out-of-network provider. Always talk to your plan or contact me to understand your specific coverage options in rural locations.

Absolutely! Always share this information with your agent. Different counties often have different plan benefits and provider networks. Moving to a new county may open up better coverage options, so it's worth reviewing your plan to make sure you're getting the best benefits available in your new location.

Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) covers the basics of what's changing with your plan, but it's still best to speak with your agent to get the full picture. We can help you understand how these changes impact your specific healthcare needs and whether your current plan is still the best fit.

Most Medicare Advantage plans include out-of-state emergency and urgent care coverage. If you know you plan on traveling, make sure to mention that to your agent. Many plans actually have travel benefits built in, so you may not need additional coverage. If you're traveling out of the country, short-term travel plans are available for international trips.