Selected Podcast
Reid Health Alliance Medicare
If you’re 65 or older, you may want to listen up. The annual enrollment period for Medicare is coming and if you miss deadlines, delay enrollment or choose the wrong plan, it can cost you money and access to the type of care you want. Reid Health Alliance Medicare plans provide benefits that can help members be healthier which in turn helps our communities to thrive. When you have your doctor and your health plan working together, you have a trusted partner beside you from start to finish.
Featuring:
Ashley Wicker
Ashley Wicker was born and raised in Connersville, Indiana where she still currently resides. At home, she is a mother to two awesome kids and enjoys the outdoors, animals, anything artsy, and cooking. Her work history has always been in some kind of healthcare and she is currently the Community and Broker Liaison for Reid Health Alliance, a Medicare Advantage plan that is partnered here locally with Reid Health. Her focus is working with local organizations to serve our communities as well as being a resource to help navigate the sometimes confusing world of Medicare. You may see her out and about at local events, health fairs, and expos as well as offering educational presentations on many different useful topics. Transcription:
Deborah Howell: Welcome to Right Beside You, a Reid Health Podcast, I'm Deborah Howell. And if you're 65 or older, you may wanna listen up. The annual enrollment period for Medicare is coming. And if you miss deadlines, delay enrollment or choose the wrong plan, it can cost you money and access to the type of care you want. Ashley Wicker community liaison and broker with Reid Health Alliance is here with us today to explain what we need to know to make the best choices for our health and wellbeing in the coming year. So good to have you here, Ashley.
Ashley Wicker: Thank you for having me.
Deborah Howell: So I'd love it if you could tell everyone a little bit about yourself and what you do?
Ashley Wicker: Yeah, absolutely. As a community and broker liaison with Reid Health Alliance, Medicare, my focus is on helping people understand Medicare and the Medicare plans and benefits that are available with Reid Health Alliance. Health Alliance has been partnered with Reid for over five years and I'm currently on my fifth year with the company. Reid Health Alliance, Medicare plans provide benefits that can help members be healthier, which in turn helps our communities to thrive. When you have your doctor and your health plan working together, you have a trusted partner beside you from start to finish.
Deborah Howell: And that is a very good feeling, indeed. So why is this time of the year so important for people who are eligible for Medicare?
Ashley Wicker: We are about to enter the Medicare enrollment period, which is October 15th through December 7th. This is the time that people can make changes to their plans for the upcoming year or choose to stay on their current plan. We encourage everyone to use this time to review their current plan, to assure it still fits their knees. This is a good time to look at what other plans have to offer, and you don't have to be afraid to investigate and ask questions, because there's no obligation to switch plans. When you understand your plan options, you can get the best care and coverage at a price that you can afford.
Deborah Howell: Absolutely ask questions because everyone has them about Medicare, let's start with the basics. What is Medicare?
Ashley Wicker: So Medicare is a federally funded health insurance program, comprised of four parts, which are parts A, B, C, and D. You qualify for Medicare, if you are 65 years of age or older, or under 65 and have one of the select group of illnesses or disability. Medicare is the primary way by which most people will meet their healthcare needs in retire. Most people must enroll in Medicare sometime between the three months before and after their 65th birthday month. If they're not already receiving retirement or disability benefits from social security.
Deborah Howell: That is beautifully said. So what are your primary plan choices?
Ashley Wicker: First, you have original Medicare. Part A and B together make up original Medicare. Part C and D offer coverage and benefits beyond what A and B offer. Part A is the hospital insurance and covers inpatient hospital days care and skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and some home healthcare. Part B is the medical insurance and covers preventative services, certain doctors services, outpatient care, and some medical supplies. Part C is called Medicare Advantage.
And it's an all in one alternative to original Medicare. It covers all the services that you get under original Medicare plus often includes part D and other extra perks and programs to help keep members healthy. Part D is prescription drug coverage. Next, you have a Medicare Advantage plan, also known as Medicare part C similar benefit to an individual or group health insurance plan. It has a comprehensive plan that bundles part A, part B and often part D coverage.
Often includes additional coverage for routine vision, dental and hearing services. Plus extra wellness and care coordination benefits. It may also include coverage for some fitness activities and over the counter drugs participants pay their part B premium for their Medicare. Monthly premiums with some plan start at $0 per month. The yearly limit on all pocket costs for medical services and it cannot be combined with Medicare supplement or Medicare policies. It's offered and managed by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.
Deborah Howell: And I tell you, you mentioned the fitness activities. My sister is on Medicare and she has a wonderful, gym that she can go to and it is covered by Medicare.
Ashley Wicker: Isn't that awesome. I love that benefit.
Deborah Howell: There's a lot of benefits people don't know about and really need to take advantage of. So are Medicare advantage plans better than other Medicare?
Ashley Wicker: So selecting a Medicare plan is something that's highly personal. You have to take time to consider what is your have to have and what is your life to have. And don't forget to look at the perks that come with the plans as well. Okay. Medicare Advantage plans often include additional coverage for routine vision, dental and hearing services. Reid Health Alliance, Medicare Advantage plans may also include coverage for fitness activities and over the counter drugs. You have to consider the out of pocket costs.
Determine if you are more comfortable with a yearly limit on out of pocket costs for medical services, or are you willing to purchase supplemental insurance to help defray some of the out of pocket costs, people who liked the health insurance they had from their employer when they were working, might appreciate the one stop shopping, convenience of a more comprehensive plan like Reid Health Alliance, Medicare advantage.
Deborah Howell: Sure.
Ashley Wicker: Medicare Advantage plans. Like some of those ones from Reid Health Alliance often meet a wide variety of budgets and clients' needs, wants, and extras.
Deborah Howell: Thanks for that, Ashley. So what do Reid Health Alliance members like most about their Medicare Advantage plan?
Ashley Wicker: Our members love our network of doctors that they know and trust.
Deborah Howell: Yeah.
Ashley Wicker: We have care coordination to meet a variety of needs. Also coverage for hospital doctor's office and pharmacy is all bundled into one plan. And we can also be more affordable than most Medicare supplement plans.
Deborah Howell: You know, it certainly sounds more simple.
Ashley Wicker: Oh yes.
Deborah Howell: What changes are coming for 2023, if any?
Ashley Wicker: Knowing that original Medicare does not cover dental services. Coupled with importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums, especially for the senior demographic, we felt it was time to step up our game in that area. And again, expanded coverage for dental care.
Deborah Howell: Love it.
Ashley Wicker: We have increased our dental benefit on most plans to cover up to $2,000 per year. Our coverage does vary by plan. We know the importance of preventative maintenance when it comes to a healthy mouth. So we offer 100% coverage on what we call class one or routine dental care. This includes cleanings, exams x-rays and more. We also cover services beyond routines, preventative care, such as billings, crowns, root canals, dentures, implants, and more. Fee services are covered with cost sharing up to the annual maximum amounts. Plus there are no dental networks. So you may go wherever you would like.
Deborah Howell: Oh, that is so important. Because Once people trust their dentist and their hygienist, they just don't wanna change.
Ashley Wicker: Yes. Yes. We've also added a companionship benefit, which provides up to 30 hours of in-home support yearly through the Papa Pal program. This service gives you access to a friendly companion who can help you with a variety of tasks. Continued focus on keeping members healthy, not just supporting them when they are sick.
Deborah Howell: Yeah, and that is so crucial. I like the Papa Pal program. That's really, is that a brand new edition or has that been around for a while?
Ashley Wicker: That is a new addition for this year.
Deborah Howell: And gimme an example of how somebody might use the Papa Pal program?
Ashley Wicker: It's a companionship program. So some people may use it just to have someone there to help them, um, or even just to talk to, So it's more of a companionship program, but they could also help with a variety of tasks, like light cleaning.
Deborah Howell: That is wonderful. Now, how do people get more information or sign up during Medicare open enrollment?
Ashley Wicker: Open enrollment runs from October 15th through December 7th. We can be reached by calling Reed health Alliance at 1-877-749-3002. Or you can go to healthalliance.org/medicare, or they can also contact their local agent.
Deborah Howell: And I'll be giving that information again at the end. If everyone wants to pick up a pen, what if someone is overwhelmed about even just getting started? What additional support does health Alliance provide?
Ashley Wicker: Whether people are personally shopping for a plan or assisting a family member with Medicare decisions, we are just a phone call way to help answer those questions. One size does not fit all when it comes to Medicare coverage. So we're happy to help you find a plan that fits their health and wellness needs and match their lifestyle.
Deborah Howell: I can hear it in your voice. You are happy to be doing what you're doing and helping everyone understand Medicare better. All great information. Thank you so much for your time today. Ashley. Hope you'll join us again soon.
Ashley Wicker: Absolutely. Thanks for having me.
Deborah Howell: And as promised just a reminder open enrollment runs from October 15th. Through December 7th, you can call Reid Health Alliance at 1 877-749-3002. Or go to healthalliance.org/medicare. And that concludes this episode of Right Beside You, a Reid Health Podcast, please remember to subscribe, rate and review this podcast and all the other Reid Health Podcasts. I'm Deborah Howell, have a terrific day.
Deborah Howell: Welcome to Right Beside You, a Reid Health Podcast, I'm Deborah Howell. And if you're 65 or older, you may wanna listen up. The annual enrollment period for Medicare is coming. And if you miss deadlines, delay enrollment or choose the wrong plan, it can cost you money and access to the type of care you want. Ashley Wicker community liaison and broker with Reid Health Alliance is here with us today to explain what we need to know to make the best choices for our health and wellbeing in the coming year. So good to have you here, Ashley.
Ashley Wicker: Thank you for having me.
Deborah Howell: So I'd love it if you could tell everyone a little bit about yourself and what you do?
Ashley Wicker: Yeah, absolutely. As a community and broker liaison with Reid Health Alliance, Medicare, my focus is on helping people understand Medicare and the Medicare plans and benefits that are available with Reid Health Alliance. Health Alliance has been partnered with Reid for over five years and I'm currently on my fifth year with the company. Reid Health Alliance, Medicare plans provide benefits that can help members be healthier, which in turn helps our communities to thrive. When you have your doctor and your health plan working together, you have a trusted partner beside you from start to finish.
Deborah Howell: And that is a very good feeling, indeed. So why is this time of the year so important for people who are eligible for Medicare?
Ashley Wicker: We are about to enter the Medicare enrollment period, which is October 15th through December 7th. This is the time that people can make changes to their plans for the upcoming year or choose to stay on their current plan. We encourage everyone to use this time to review their current plan, to assure it still fits their knees. This is a good time to look at what other plans have to offer, and you don't have to be afraid to investigate and ask questions, because there's no obligation to switch plans. When you understand your plan options, you can get the best care and coverage at a price that you can afford.
Deborah Howell: Absolutely ask questions because everyone has them about Medicare, let's start with the basics. What is Medicare?
Ashley Wicker: So Medicare is a federally funded health insurance program, comprised of four parts, which are parts A, B, C, and D. You qualify for Medicare, if you are 65 years of age or older, or under 65 and have one of the select group of illnesses or disability. Medicare is the primary way by which most people will meet their healthcare needs in retire. Most people must enroll in Medicare sometime between the three months before and after their 65th birthday month. If they're not already receiving retirement or disability benefits from social security.
Deborah Howell: That is beautifully said. So what are your primary plan choices?
Ashley Wicker: First, you have original Medicare. Part A and B together make up original Medicare. Part C and D offer coverage and benefits beyond what A and B offer. Part A is the hospital insurance and covers inpatient hospital days care and skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and some home healthcare. Part B is the medical insurance and covers preventative services, certain doctors services, outpatient care, and some medical supplies. Part C is called Medicare Advantage.
And it's an all in one alternative to original Medicare. It covers all the services that you get under original Medicare plus often includes part D and other extra perks and programs to help keep members healthy. Part D is prescription drug coverage. Next, you have a Medicare Advantage plan, also known as Medicare part C similar benefit to an individual or group health insurance plan. It has a comprehensive plan that bundles part A, part B and often part D coverage.
Often includes additional coverage for routine vision, dental and hearing services. Plus extra wellness and care coordination benefits. It may also include coverage for some fitness activities and over the counter drugs participants pay their part B premium for their Medicare. Monthly premiums with some plan start at $0 per month. The yearly limit on all pocket costs for medical services and it cannot be combined with Medicare supplement or Medicare policies. It's offered and managed by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.
Deborah Howell: And I tell you, you mentioned the fitness activities. My sister is on Medicare and she has a wonderful, gym that she can go to and it is covered by Medicare.
Ashley Wicker: Isn't that awesome. I love that benefit.
Deborah Howell: There's a lot of benefits people don't know about and really need to take advantage of. So are Medicare advantage plans better than other Medicare?
Ashley Wicker: So selecting a Medicare plan is something that's highly personal. You have to take time to consider what is your have to have and what is your life to have. And don't forget to look at the perks that come with the plans as well. Okay. Medicare Advantage plans often include additional coverage for routine vision, dental and hearing services. Reid Health Alliance, Medicare Advantage plans may also include coverage for fitness activities and over the counter drugs. You have to consider the out of pocket costs.
Determine if you are more comfortable with a yearly limit on out of pocket costs for medical services, or are you willing to purchase supplemental insurance to help defray some of the out of pocket costs, people who liked the health insurance they had from their employer when they were working, might appreciate the one stop shopping, convenience of a more comprehensive plan like Reid Health Alliance, Medicare advantage.
Deborah Howell: Sure.
Ashley Wicker: Medicare Advantage plans. Like some of those ones from Reid Health Alliance often meet a wide variety of budgets and clients' needs, wants, and extras.
Deborah Howell: Thanks for that, Ashley. So what do Reid Health Alliance members like most about their Medicare Advantage plan?
Ashley Wicker: Our members love our network of doctors that they know and trust.
Deborah Howell: Yeah.
Ashley Wicker: We have care coordination to meet a variety of needs. Also coverage for hospital doctor's office and pharmacy is all bundled into one plan. And we can also be more affordable than most Medicare supplement plans.
Deborah Howell: You know, it certainly sounds more simple.
Ashley Wicker: Oh yes.
Deborah Howell: What changes are coming for 2023, if any?
Ashley Wicker: Knowing that original Medicare does not cover dental services. Coupled with importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums, especially for the senior demographic, we felt it was time to step up our game in that area. And again, expanded coverage for dental care.
Deborah Howell: Love it.
Ashley Wicker: We have increased our dental benefit on most plans to cover up to $2,000 per year. Our coverage does vary by plan. We know the importance of preventative maintenance when it comes to a healthy mouth. So we offer 100% coverage on what we call class one or routine dental care. This includes cleanings, exams x-rays and more. We also cover services beyond routines, preventative care, such as billings, crowns, root canals, dentures, implants, and more. Fee services are covered with cost sharing up to the annual maximum amounts. Plus there are no dental networks. So you may go wherever you would like.
Deborah Howell: Oh, that is so important. Because Once people trust their dentist and their hygienist, they just don't wanna change.
Ashley Wicker: Yes. Yes. We've also added a companionship benefit, which provides up to 30 hours of in-home support yearly through the Papa Pal program. This service gives you access to a friendly companion who can help you with a variety of tasks. Continued focus on keeping members healthy, not just supporting them when they are sick.
Deborah Howell: Yeah, and that is so crucial. I like the Papa Pal program. That's really, is that a brand new edition or has that been around for a while?
Ashley Wicker: That is a new addition for this year.
Deborah Howell: And gimme an example of how somebody might use the Papa Pal program?
Ashley Wicker: It's a companionship program. So some people may use it just to have someone there to help them, um, or even just to talk to, So it's more of a companionship program, but they could also help with a variety of tasks, like light cleaning.
Deborah Howell: That is wonderful. Now, how do people get more information or sign up during Medicare open enrollment?
Ashley Wicker: Open enrollment runs from October 15th through December 7th. We can be reached by calling Reed health Alliance at 1-877-749-3002. Or you can go to healthalliance.org/medicare, or they can also contact their local agent.
Deborah Howell: And I'll be giving that information again at the end. If everyone wants to pick up a pen, what if someone is overwhelmed about even just getting started? What additional support does health Alliance provide?
Ashley Wicker: Whether people are personally shopping for a plan or assisting a family member with Medicare decisions, we are just a phone call way to help answer those questions. One size does not fit all when it comes to Medicare coverage. So we're happy to help you find a plan that fits their health and wellness needs and match their lifestyle.
Deborah Howell: I can hear it in your voice. You are happy to be doing what you're doing and helping everyone understand Medicare better. All great information. Thank you so much for your time today. Ashley. Hope you'll join us again soon.
Ashley Wicker: Absolutely. Thanks for having me.
Deborah Howell: And as promised just a reminder open enrollment runs from October 15th. Through December 7th, you can call Reid Health Alliance at 1 877-749-3002. Or go to healthalliance.org/medicare. And that concludes this episode of Right Beside You, a Reid Health Podcast, please remember to subscribe, rate and review this podcast and all the other Reid Health Podcasts. I'm Deborah Howell, have a terrific day.