HELPFUL ARTICLES

As a Medicare beneficiary, it’s essential to stay proactive about your healthcare coverage. At Silver Crest Insurance, we understand the importance of conducting an annual check-up of your Medicare plans to ensure you’re getting the best possible benefits. This guide provides an actionable checklist for reviewing and updating your Medicare coverage, enabling you to optimize your healthcare services and potentially save money. Why Annual Reviews Matter Just like your physical

Understanding Medicare: The Basics For those approaching retirement or individuals qualifying due to certain disabilities, understanding Medicare can feel overwhelming. Silver Crest Insurance is here to simplify this process. Medicare is a federal health insurance program consisting of different parts that cater to various healthcare needs. This guide covers the fundamentals of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, enabling you to navigate your options with confidence. Medicare Part

Prescription drug costs can add up quickly — especially as we age or manage chronic conditions. That’s where Medicare Part D , the federal government’s prescription drug coverage program, comes in. If you’re new to Medicare or reviewing your current plan, understanding how Part D works can help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure your medications remain affordable. What Is Medicare Part D? Medicare Part D is a prescription drug coverage program offered through private ins

The Essential Checklist for First-Time Medicare Enrollers Navigating the Medicare enrollment process can be overwhelming, especially for first-time enrollers. It's imperative to have a clear and concise plan to ensure you don't miss critical steps or deadlines. At Silver Crest Insurance, we prioritize ensuring our clients understand their options, making the enrollment journey smoother and more manageable. This checklist serves as your roadmap to successfully enroll in Medica

Navigating the landscape of Medicare can be daunting, particularly when it comes to Medicare Advantage Plans. These plans offer an alternative to Original Medicare and can provide additional benefits that enhance your healthcare experience. At Silver Crest Insurance, we understand the importance of maximizing your Medicare Advantage coverage to ensure that you receive the best possible value from your plan. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore practical strategies that

As we age, maintaining our oral health becomes more important—and unfortunately, more expensive. From routine cleanings to unexpected dental procedures, the costs can add up quickly, especially for retirees living on a fixed income. That’s why having a dental insurance plan isn’t just a good idea—it’s often a  financial lifesaver . Here’s how a well-chosen dental plan can save seniors  thousands of dollars  and provide peace of mind well into retirement. Dental Costs Add Up—F

Choosing the right health insurance plan for your family can feel overwhelming—especially with dozens of plan types, confusing terms, and fine print. But with the right guidance, you can confidently select a plan that balances coverage, cost, and peace of mind. At  SilverCrest Insurance , we help families every day navigate their health insurance options with clarity and confidence. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you choose a plan that works for  your  family's unique ne

Choosing between  Original Medicare  and  Medicare Advantage  is a pivotal decision as you approach retirement. At  Silver Crest Insurance , we are committed to helping you understand your options and make an informed choice based on your health care needs and financial goals. Understanding Original Medicare Original Medicare  is the traditional government program and includes two main parts: Part A (Hospital Insurance):  Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facil

Navigating the Medicare landscape can be overwhelming. With so many options and intricate details to consider, choosing the right Medicare insurance team becomes one of the most critical steps in ensuring you have the coverage that fits your needs. Whether you're turning 65, retiring, or reevaluating your Medicare plans, the team you choose to guide you on this journey makes all the difference. At Silver Crest Insurance Agency, we specialize in simplifying Medicare for retire

Medicare is a vital program for many Americans, providing essential health coverage for those aged 65 and older as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. Unfortunately, as Medicare continues to grow and evolve, so do the scams designed to exploit beneficiaries. Recognizing and avoiding these scams is essential for protecting your personal information and ensuring your benefits remain secure. With the insights and resources provided here, you’ll learn how to id

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and for those enrolled in Medicare, understanding what services are covered can make a significant difference in accessing necessary care. Medicare provides coverage for a range of mental health services, including therapy, medication, and hospitalization, but it’s important to know the specifics of what’s included under each part of Medicare. Medicare Part A: Inpatient Mental Health Coverage Medicare Part A covers inpati

The start of a new year is the perfect time to review your Medicare coverage and ensure everything is in order for the months ahead. Medicare is a critical resource for managing your healthcare needs, but to make the most of your benefits, it's important to stay proactive and informed. This checklist will guide you through key steps to take at the beginning of the year to optimize your coverage and avoid unexpected surprises. Review Your Medicare Plan Verify Your Current Cove

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) Open Enrollment period is one of the most important times of the year for individuals and families seeking quality health insurance. Whether you’re new to ACA plans or looking to update your current policy, understanding the process is essential to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. In this blog, we’ll break down the key aspects of ACA Open Enrollment, explain your options, and offer tips to ensure you get the coverage you need.

Losing job-based health coverage can be a stressful and uncertain time. Health insurance not only protects you from high medical costs, but it also provides peace of mind, knowing that if a health issue arises, you’re covered. If you recently lost your job and, with it, your health coverage, here are some steps to help you stay protected and explore your options. Check for COBRA Coverage What It Is : COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) allows employees and

Choosing the right Medicare plan can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available. Making an informed decision is crucial, as your choice impacts not only your health coverage but also your finances. Unfortunately, many people fall into common traps that can lead to costly mistakes. Here are five common mistakes people make when choosing Medicare plans—and how to avoid them. Not Reviewing All Available Options The Mistake: Many individuals simply opt for

As you approach retirement age, understanding your healthcare options becomes increasingly important. While Medicare provides essential coverage for hospital and medical services, it doesn't cover everything. This is where Medicare Supplement Insurance, also known as Medigap, comes into play. Medigap is designed to fill the gaps left by Original Medicare, helping you manage out-of-pocket costs and ensuring that your healthcare needs are fully covered. In this blog, we'll expl

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as some younger people with disabilities. Understanding the key age milestones for Medicare can help you navigate the program efficiently and ensure that you maximize your benefits. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the important age milestones associated with Medicare. Turning 65: Eligibility and Enrollment When : At age 65. What to Know : Eligibility : Most people

Switching Medicare Advantage plans can be a significant decision, impacting your healthcare coverage and out-of-pocket costs. Whether you’re looking for better benefits, lower costs, or a wider network of providers, it's crucial to consider several factors before making a change. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process and ensure you choose the right plan for your needs. Understand Your Health Care Needs Before switching plans, evaluate your current and future healthc

Navigating prescription drug coverage under Medicare can be complex, but understanding the basics can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare. Medicare offers several options for prescription drug coverage, each with its own set of rules and benefits. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding how prescriptions work when you are on Medicare. Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Options Medicare provides prescription drug coverage through two main options: Med

Walking canes are an essential aid for many individuals, providing support, stability, and balance. If you're wondering whether Medicare covers walking canes, the answer is yes—but there are specific conditions and guidelines to understand. In this blog, we'll explore how Medicare covers walking canes, what types of canes are covered, and the steps to ensure you receive the coverage you need. What is Medicare? Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for peopl

If you are 65 (or older) and still working full-time, chances are that you have questions swirling through your head about health insurance.  You are probably wondering: "Should I switch to Medicare  or stick with my employer group coverage?" "Do I even have to enroll in Medicare?" "What happens if I refuse to sign up for Medicare at 65?" If you're in this spot, don't worry. Our advisors break it down below, giving you all the info you need to make the right decision.  1. Do

As individuals approach retirement age, navigating healthcare options becomes increasingly important. Medicare is a vital resource for many seniors, providing essential coverage for medical services and treatments. However, Medicare alone may not cover all healthcare expenses, leading many individuals to explore additional coverage options, such as Medicare Supplement Plans, also known as Medigap. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of Medicare Supplement Plans and

In the U.S. healthcare system, few programs are as effective for people with disabilities as Medicaid. Medicaid is the main program providing long-term services and support that help individuals with disabilities remain independent in their homes and communities. This article explains why Medicaid is essential for people with disabilities. What is Medicaid? Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides healthcare coverage to low-income individuals and families,

Diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic conditions often require ongoing management and can impact your everyday life. Do you have a chronic illness or know someone who does? Medicare  can help.  We examine common chronic diseases, how Medicare coverage works if you have a chronic condition, and more in this article. Examples of Chronic Conditions  Chronic diseases are persistent, long-lasting conditions and are a significant health concern for many Americans. According to

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, ensuring access to affordable and comprehensive medical coverage is more crucial than ever. Medicaid, a state and federally-funded program, plays a pivotal role in providing health coverage to eligible individuals and families. With the annual Medicaid open enrollment period approaching, it's essential for beneficiaries to understand the process and make informed decisions about their healthcare options. In this blog post, we'l

Are you confused about the functions of Medicare and Medicaid or often interchange them? It’s understandable, as both are government-backed healthcare programs with similar-sounding names. However, Medicare and Medicaid serve distinct purposes and different groups of people. This post examines their key differences and how they impact you, equipping you to choose the right one for your needs. What is Medicare and Medicaid? Medicare It’s a health insurance program for people

It’s time to make the most of the annual Medicare open enrollment! Are you struggling to pay the out-of-pocket costs of your existing plan? Is your Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plan ( Medicare Part D ) no longer meeting your health needs? Will your current healthcare provider no longer be in the plan’s network next year? Are there any other changes you need to make? The time to do so is during the annual Medicare open enrollment. Here’s how to take advantage of th

Medicare isn’t all about hospital stays and prescription drugs to address ailments. Recognizing that prevention is key to staying healthy and happy, Medicare also empowers you to keep your health in check through its preventive services. This post delves into what Medicare preventive services are, the services Medicare covers, and how much they cost. Understanding Medicare’s Preventive Services Medicare’s preventive services include exams, lab tests, shots, screenings, couns

As you age, staying healthy and avoiding illness becomes more important than ever before. As a beneficiary, Medicare affords you the opportunity to stay on top of your health through Medicare's Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) at no cost. This post lets you know what Medicare's Annual Wellness Visit is, what to expect during an appointment, and why it is important. What is Medicare's Annual Wellness Visit? Medicare's Annual Wellness Visit is a yearly appointment in which your heal

It is important to be vigilant when applying for Medicare. There are numerous scams out there that purport to offer "free" services but can result in identity theft and financial loss. Here are a few tips on how you can protect yourself while applying for Medicare: Be Aware of Phishing Attempts. Scammers may call or email you with offers that seem too good to be true. If they ask for your Social Security number or other personal information, do not provide it - hang up the ph

Across the country, the rising costs of prescription drugs have become a significant financial burden for many individuals and families, even more so for lower-income earners. However, if you’re a resident of Pennsylvania, 65 and above, and looking for ways to alleviate the financial strain of prescription drugs, the PACE and PACENET programs can help. PACE PACE stands for the Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly (PACE) program and is designed to help Pennsylva

In our previous post, we highlighted some deficiencies in Medicare coverage , which includes dental, vision, and hearing services. The realization that Medicare doesn’t cover these essential aspects of our well-being may have left you wondering if you need additional Dental, Vision, and Hearing coverage. Do I Need Dental, Vision, and Hearing Coverage? The short answer is YES. Having Dental, Vision, and Hearing coverage can ensure the timely detection of tooth decay, hearing l

Whether you're approaching the Medicare age of 65 or already signed up, you may think the days of worrying over healthcare costs are over. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Even with Medicare, there are some services and procedures you'll have to pay for out of your own pocket, as Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) doesn't cover them. Let's look at some of the things Medicare doesn't cover and how to cover them. Routine Dental Care Medicare covers some dental services a

If you're nearing retirement age, you may be wondering about your Medicare enrollment. When can you sign up? What are the costs? And what coverage options are available to you? Navigating the world of Medicare can be confusing, but we're here to help. Read on for everything you need to know about enrolling in Medicare as a retiree. Medicare Age and Still Working? Many people continue to work full-time past the of age 65. If this is you or your spouse and there are over 20 peo

Have you wondered which insurance policy is the right one for you? A life insurance policy provides several benefits both in your lifetime and when you’ve passed on. Likewise, a final expense insurance policy has its unique benefits, especially post-mortem expenditure. While it’s okay to prepare your will and organize things such that there’s continuity long after you’re gone, many people often overlook their funeral costs and medical bills incurred in the event of death. As

The spike in healthcare costs is impacting senior Americans, with many having to spend more than they can afford on premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. If you’re a low-income earner or need help with Medicare costs, there are some federal and state programs you can sign up for, such as: Medicare Savings Programs Medicare Savings Programs is state-run and can help pay your Part A and Part B premiums and out-of-pocket expenses, including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. T

The holiday season is here! Like many people out there, some Medicare members are readying their bags to travel and enjoy the vacation at some remote, exotic location. Wherever you go, you must keep health considerations in mind. Of course, worrying about health concerns is a bit distracting when you’re supposed to be on vacation and having fun. However, you should remember that it can be difficult to navigate your healthcare options when you’re away from home. Here are some

Medicare Advantage , also known as Medicare Part C, is a bundled plan available through private insurers. If you meet Medicare eligibility requirements, you'll also be able to sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan. Before you enroll, here are some things to know about Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. Offers Original Medicare coverage and more Medicare Advantage plans cover Original Medicare. So you still enjoy all the benefits of Part A and Part B. In addition to covering the

You can begin receiving Medicare benefits when you turn 65 and meet other eligibility criteria. However, you can choose not to sign up. So when is it time for Medicare? Should I apply when I turn 65 or delay enrollment? The right time to sign up for Medicare depends on whether you have private health insurance from a current employer or your spouse's employer. You Have Private Health Insurance If you're receiving social security or railroad benefits You'll be automatically en

For seniors, the degeneration of the teeth, eyes, and ear is both a reality and a considerable risk. With dental, vision, and hearing (DVH) plans, you can enjoy the various activities you love in retirement without having to worry about the cost of treatment and services. procedures. DVH plans also enable you to keep your teeth, ears, and eyes healthy as you age, preventing costly complications further down the line. In this post, we’ll examine what to look for when choosing

Medicare supplement plans can be a complicated topic. Our experts can help you to determine which plan is the best fit for you.

As you inch closer to 65, when you'll meet the age requirement for Medicare , you may be in a bit of a dilemma on which health plans to choose. While Original Medicare is the more obvious choice and seems safe, you'll miss out on the benefits and options that come with Medicare Advantage plans if you go for it. Give you all the benefits of Original Medicare Original Medicare offers two coverages - Part A and Part B. Part A covers in-patient hospital stays, hospice care, and

Original Air Date: May 25th, 2022 Medicare Supplemental Plans Laurie welcomes guest Daniel Banks from Silver Crest Insurance to discuss: Medicare Supplemental Plans & Premiums

Like finance, tax, or law, Medicare insurance is complicated and is best left to the professionals. When it comes to protecting your health, you want to have the right insurance advisor on your side, guiding you toward what's best for your health. That insurance advisor you want for Medicare, to give you the peace of mind that comes with having a trusted expert in your corner, is an independent insurance broker. But what exactly does an independent broker offer? They Give You

Silver Crest Insurance is an independent agency helping thousands of people benefit from Medicare since 2008. As an independent agency, we work only for YOU, finding you the best combination of coverage, cost, and service. The Silver Crest Power of Choice At Silver Crest Insurance, we believe that being independent confers on you the power of choice. And we’ve been operating on this principle since 2008. And what does this mean? The power of choice ensures you’re presented wi

Medicare Advantage is a bundled plan that enables you to receive the benefits of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), Part D (Drug coverage), and additional healthcare services under one umbrella. Considering signing up for a Medicare Advantage plan ? Great choice. Enrollment in MA plans continues to surge in 2022, with 28 million participants - about 45% of Medicare beneficiaries -enrolled in Medicare Advantage. However, you need to understand the plan to be sure you're m

For frail seniors living at home, moving around can be very challenging. Having wheelchair ramps can help them safely navigate their homes and help regain their much-cherished independence. And like you, many seniors are asking the big question: “Does Medicare cover wheelchair ramps?” Like with most things Medicare, there’s no short answer to this. Medicare is split into different parts, with each offering various coverages. So let’s see whether any of these parts pay for whe

I’m going to go out on a limb and say that most Americans have heard the phrase “unexpected medical bill”. It’s also very possible that many of you reading this have had a surprise medical bill. In fact, one out of five Americans have received a surprise medical bill due to an emergency room visit and about as many have received a surprise medical bill due to a non-emergency hospital stay. Nearly two out of three Americans fear unexpected bills and half cannot afford to pay t

Are you looking into health care options, and you're not sure of where to turn? Choosing healthcare can be overwhelming and challenging, and our professional Medicare insurance agents are here to provide support and resources to make the process easier for you and your loved ones. Over time, it's important to take steps to ensure that you have the coverage that you need for your health and care. One of the primary options people look for more information on is Medicare. Medic

Depending on the size of the employer, you might or might not be required to take Medicare. Also, depending on the cost and coverage of the company plan vs. Medicare, you may want to take Medicare even if not required to take it. How many people are covered under your company insurance plan? The critical number is 20. If you or your spouse’s company plan has more than 20 employees covered under the group health plan, by law the company must continue to offer you health covera