Medicare: Your Essential Guide

Wendy Lopez

Understanding Medicare is crucial for making informed decisions about your healthcare coverage. Whether you choose Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage (Part C), knowing the basics empowers you to select the plan that best suits your needs. Original Medicare comprises Part A and Part B, covering hospital stays, doctor visits, and other essential services. Supplemental plans like Medicare Part D for prescription drugs and Medigap for additional coverage can enhance your benefits and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Alternatively, Medicare Advantage plans offer a comprehensive alternative, bundling Parts A, B, and often D into a single package. These plans may extend coverage to dental, vision, and other services, providing a more holistic approach… Read More

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Open Enrollment 2023: Key Reminders and Deadline

Wendy Lopez

Are you ready for Open Enrollment? If not, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with all the key information you need to make the most of this opportunity to secure health coverage for you and your loved ones. Open Enrollment for 2023 is just around the corner, beginning on November 1. However, it’s crucial to mark your calendars with the DEADLINE REMINDER: December 15th is the last day to enroll for coverage that kicks in on January 1st. For current Pennie customers, here are some important reminders: For those who are potential Pennie customers, here’s what you need to know: Why choose Pennie for your health coverage? Pennie offers… Read More

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Updated No Surprises Act and IDR Guidance

Wendy Lopez

Recent developments in healthcare legislation have brought changes to the No Surprises Act’s independent dispute resolution (IDR) process. Issued by the Departments of Labor, the Treasury, and Health and Human Services (HHS), FAQ Part 62 provides essential updates regarding the qualifying payment amount (QPA) calculation methodology and the disclosure requirements for out-of-network (OON) air ambulance services. Moreover, the federal IDR portal has reopened, streamlining the resolution of billing disputes. The No Surprises Act Overview The No Surprises Act, a part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, aims to protect patients from surprise medical bills. It places limits on out-of-network cost-sharing and bans balance billing in various situations, such as emergency… Read More

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Medicare Supplement Insights: Protecting Your Wallet

Wendy Lopez

In a world where healthcare costs are a growing concern for many, Medicare Supplement coverage has emerged as a reliable solution to bridge the gaps in original Medicare. As we delve into the latest data from 2021, including insights from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), the California Department of Managed Health Care, and the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS) from 2020, a compelling narrative about the significance of Medicare Supplement plans unfolds. Key Takeaways: 1. A Majority Embrace Medicare Supplement: In 2020, a staggering 54% of original Medicare enrollees without additional insurance coverage, such as Medicaid or employer-provided insurance, turned to Medicare Supplement policies for added peace of… Read More

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