Do Medicare Excess Charges Actually Happen?
Do Medicare excess charges actually happen? Yes, they can—but they are uncommon because most doctors and other healthcare professionals who bill Medicare participate in Medicare and accept its approved payment amount. An excess charge can only occur under specific...
Which Medicare Supplement Plans Include SilverSneakers?
Which Medicare Supplement plans include SilverSneakers? The answer depends primarily on the insurance company, the specific Medicare Supplement product, and the state where the policy is offered. SilverSneakers is not automatically included with Medicare Supplement...
Is HealthSpring the Same as Cigna Medicare?
Is HealthSpring the Same as Cigna Medicare? HealthSpring is the new brand being used for the Medicare business that was previously operated under the Cigna Healthcare name. Health Care Service Corporation, commonly called HCSC, completed its purchase of The Cigna...
What Happened to Independence Blue Cross Medicare Supplement Plans in Pennsylvania?
Effective January 1, 2026, Independence Blue Cross (IBX) no longer sells new Medicare Supplement plans in Pennsylvania. Existing policyholders may keep their current coverage, but new applicants will need to consider other Medicare Supplement companies. Did...
Why I Recommend Medicare Supplement Plan N So Often
If you're wondering Why I Recommend Medicare Plan N, the answer comes down to value. After helping Medicare beneficiaries since 1985, I have seen many people compare Medicare Supplement Plan G and Plan N. While Plan G gets a lot of attention, approximately 90% of my...
Do Medicare Brokers Charge a Fee?
Do Medicare brokers charge a fee? In almost every case, the answer is no. When you work with a licensed Medicare broker to enroll in a Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, or Part D plan, the insurance company typically pays the broker's commission—not you. Your...
How Does a Medicare Broker Get Paid?
How does a Medicare broker get paid? Insurance companies generally pay the broker a commission when an eligible Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plan is issued. The Medicare beneficiary normally does not pay the broker directly, and...
Chubb Medicare Supplement Plans in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
When comparing Medicare Supplement plans, many people automatically focus on the insurance companies they recognize first. That is understandable. Medicare beneficiaries often know names like Aetna, Cigna, Mutual of Omaha, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare. However, one...