Frequently Asked Questions
With so many options available, Medicare Insurance Plans can be very confusing. If you have additional questions or questions about your specific circumstances, please call: (623) 251-6612 TTY:711
Where can I get help making the best choices about my health insurance?
I take pride in helping people select the most appropriate plans for their individual circumstances. It is all about your needs. I will take the time to understand what those needs are and recommend a plan that fits your needs and budget.
When is the annual enrollment period for Medicare plans?
The annual enrollment period is from October 15th through December 7th for an effective date of January 1st of the following year. This applies to joining, switching, or dropping Medicare Advantage plans and Part D Prescription Drug plans. There is also a special election period between Jan. 1 and March 31 if for some reason your circumstances require a change in plan or carrier.
You can drop a Medicare Advantage plan and switch to original Medicare between January 1 and February 14. If you switch to original Medicare during that period, you have until February 14 to sign up for a Part D Prescription Drug plan.
You can enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan any time if you are not enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.
Can I switch plans at any time?
You can only change Medicare Advantage plans during the annual enrollment period, or during a special enrollment period (for example, if you have just moved to a new area, you have lost employer coverage, or you are newly enrolling in Medicare). People turning 65 have a seven month enrollment period, which is the three months before their birthday month, their birth month, and the three months after.
You can switch Medicare Supplement plans any time.
What if a doctor does not accept Medicare patients?
If you have a Medicare Supplement Plan (not a Medicare Advantage Plan), you can still see any doctor you like. You will have to pay the doctor’s bill and then submit a claim to Medicare to be reimbursed. Click here, Form CMS 1490S, to obtain the claim form from the Medicare web site.
If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, you must use the doctors and other providers that are members of the Plan’s network.
Why should I select a plan through Diane Lee?
You will benefit from personalized service and my expert familiarity with Medicare and with the insurance products I sell. I concentrate on making sure you get the health plan that best fits your particular needs. I will educate you about all of your options so you can select a plan that is equal to or better than what you currently have.
What areas of Arizona do you service?
I am licensed to do business throughout the state of Arizona. I mostly work in and around Phoenix, plus the rest of Maricopa and Yavapai, Navajo and Coconino counties.
Where can I find additional resources to understand how Medicare works?
Here are some additional links you may find helpful:
- Medicare Made Clear – Show Me Guide
- medicare.gov
This is the official U.S. government site for Medicare. - Medicare Glossary
This glossary explains definitions of terms used in the Medicare program. - My Medicare
This is Medicare’s secure web site for accessing information regarding your personal Medicare benefits and services
These are links to other resources for seniors.