Did you ever think turning 65 would be such a difficult thing when it came to your health care needs?

Well, I am here to tell you that it doesn't have to be stressful at all.
Here are a few simple steps to get you through the process with minimal angst.

First off, do not think you can decipher the Medicare process by searching on the internet, you will
only become more confused. You really need to sit down with a Senior Market Specialist who has
been trained in this field and guide you along the way. All insurance agents can "sell" Medicare plans, only a Senior Market Specialist has had additional training in the market for which you are shopping.

When you call different insurance companies, and speak with an agent, more than likely that agent
is going to make an appointment to meet with you in your home. The first thing you should address
before making that appointment is weather the agent has taken the Senior Market Specialist
course requirments in this field. Also, ask if the agent represents several companies with several
different plans or just one company. You should also be asking if the agent is well versed on the
Medicare process and the plans available to you.

There are many different plans to fit the needs of each individual. The Medicare plans, be it, Medigap, or Advantage plans are not cookie cutter plans, not everyone fits into a certain plan, that is why you need a variety of plans presented to you to see which one is good for you. Do not shop by price, shop for your insurance by your needs. Be sure what you get for your own needs will work for you, there is nothing more frustrating then buying a plan because its inexpensive or free, only to find out your doctor doesn't accept it, or your out of pocket costs are so large that you are afraid to use the coverage you just bought, or that you don't have control to submit your own claims when needed for reimbursement.

Once the agent has met with you, give them a little interview, find out there credentials, look at their
license (which by law they must show you) ask how long they have been in the field and what companies are they able to present to you. BE A SMART CONSUMER. When you are comfortable with them, listen to the presentation, you, at this point, should not be having a feeling of pressure that the agent is wanting a check from you. Go with your instincts.

When all plans have been presented to you that they represent, ask all the questions you want, dont
feel rushed or pressured at all, this is your one on one meeting to get all your information. Write down your answers so you can review all this information when the agent leaves. If at that point you are ready to make a choice, have the agent fill out the application (to the plan you choose) in front of you. The agent should be taking their time with you and making sure all the information is correct. Be sure the agent signs the application with their name and agent number in front of you so you are assured that the person in front of you will be your representative if you should have any questions down the road.

If you have purchased an advantage plan your plan should be in effect the 1st of the next month. If you have purchased a medigap plan, they take a bit longer so rule of thumb is 3 weeks for approval. Your agent will go over this with you. Be sure your agent leaves you with information on the plan you have chosen. You should also be left a receipt if a check was written to the insurance company. This is your proof of purchase.

Stay in contact with your agent, the agent should be at your disposal when you call or return your calls in a timely manner as they may be in another meeting when you call.

If you follow these few steps I have outlined you should be feeling no pressure or stress through this process.

Penny Courtney SMS

info@ssflorida.com

http://www.ssflorida.com