By Joel Lourie, President & CEO of Lourie Life & Health
You cannot turn on the TV or open your computer without seeing dozens of celebrities or actors talking about some great benefit you may be missing with your health coverage. You’re then directed to a call center, and that’s where things can go wrong.
Making decisions about Medicare and health insurance requires much thought, planning, and research. It’s important to work with someone familiar with the options available in your county and state. If you’re working with a local, licensed agent, they will do the research to make sure your prescription drugs are covered, and your doctors and health care facilities are in-network with the plan you’re considering.
Local agents can do telephone appointments, or they can meet you in person. Also consider who will be there to answer a question when you have an unexpected medical bill or claim denial. Your local agent is more than an order taker; they are your neighbor, advocate, and regular resource for all your questions.
I’ve often seen the unfortunate outcome when consumers end up with the wrong health plan. Prescription drug prices can become unaffordable because they may not be covered. An important specialist may not be in-network, and therefore a client cannot visit the doctor that treated them for years. More preparation and research in the beginning can save people time, money, and stress when it comes to their health care.
Would you go to an orthopedic doctor for stomach problems? Would you see a divorce lawyer for an automobile accident? Of course not, and the same holds true with insurance. There are agents who specialize in life insurance, annuities, long-term care, disability, accident insurance, home insurance, automobile insurance—to name a few.
Find an agent who specializes in Medicare and health insurance; this field, like the others referenced, has many nuances when it comes to co-pays, deductibles, networks, etc. Work with a local professional experienced in helping you find the health plan that meets your specific needs and budget.
