When it comes to your health and your future, there’s nothing more important than making the right choices — especially when it comes to Medicare and Medicaid. We hear this every day from our neighbors here in Conway, Arkansas and we completely understand. Medicare can feel confusing at times. But the good news is you don’t have to figure it out alone.
At Overton Agency , we’ve helped hundreds of folks across Clay County make sense of their options. The truth is, where you get your Medicare advice really matters — and choosing the right local health insurance program could save you thousands in health care spending over time.
Let’s walk through why that is — and how you can make a smart choice for your long-term care needs.Why Local Medicare Expertise Matters for Long-Term Care Costs
Think all Medicare plans are basically the same? Not so fast.
Many medicare beneficiaries end up overpaying — simply because they didn’t get the right guidance when enrolling. Studies show a large number of folks never switch plans, even when better ones are available. And that means missed savings and missed benefits.
A local agency like Overton Agency knows the care providers in your area. We understand what plans they accept. We know the medicare rates for Orange Park and surrounding towns. National call centers can’t offer that. We can.
Why does that matter?
Because cost of care and care spending change from state to state, and even city to city. If you want the best long-term services and supports, it pays to talk with someone who lives and works where you do.
Comparing Medicare Advantage vs Traditional Medicare: What to Know
You’ve likely heard of Medicare Advantage and Traditional Medicare — but how are they different? And how do they affect your health care cost over time?
Here’s the simple breakdown:
- Traditional Medicare includes Medicare Part A and Part B. You can add a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan and a Part D for prescriptions.
- Medicare Advantage plans bundle these services together through private insurance companies.
Now here’s where it gets tricky.
Medicare Advantage plans often look cheaper up front. They may have low monthly premiums or offer extras like dental or vision. But the cost of care can rise fast if you need hospital care, home health aide services, or specialist visits that are out-of-network.
On the other hand, people with Traditional Medicare often enjoy more flexibility with care providers, especially for primary care and specialty services.
Your choice affects your care coverage, how care is delivered, and even the quality of care you receive.
So how do you decide?
The Hidden Costs of Choosing the Wrong Medicare Plan
Have you ever thought about how much money the wrong choice could cost you?
A recent Commonwealth Fund study found that many Medicare and Medicaid enrollees pay too much for their care because they chose a plan that doesn’t fit their actual needs.
Here are just a few ways the wrong plan could affect your wallet:
- Higher out-of-pocket costs for hospital stays or skilled nursing
- Limited home and community-based services
- Trouble accessing your preferred health care provider
- Missed long-term care services that could have been covered
Over time, those costs add up.
Think about it like this: If you accidentally overpay by $100/month, that’s $1,200 a year — $6,000 over five years! That’s money that could go toward your home, your family, or your peace of mind.
Medicaid, Long-Term Services, and Support: What’s Covered?
If you’re eligible for Medicaid, or you’re thinking about applying, it’s important to understand how it works with Medicare.
In Arkansas, the state Medicaid program helps with long-term care and home health needs — especially for those who qualify due to income or disability. You may also qualify for home and community-based services, depending on your situation.
And while Medicare covers many medical care expenses, it typically does not pay for extended stays in assisted living or nursing homes. That’s where Medicaid services can step in.
Medicare and Medicaid together can offer a fuller range of support — but only if you know how to access the right health service combinations.
We help you figure that out. No stress. No confusion.
Real Talk: Why Most People Don’t Switch Medicare Plans (Even When They Should)
It’s not just you. Many people feel stuck or overwhelmed when thinking about switching their insurance plan.
Why? Because:
- The paperwork can feel like a mountain
- You worry about losing your doctors
- You’re not sure who to trust for guidance
But here’s the truth — evidence suggests that Medicare enrollees who review their plans yearly often improve care, lower costs, and stay healthier longer.
At our agency, we handle the comparisons for you. We break down the benefits and risks. We explain the health insurance plans in plain English. And we’ll even help with the paperwork.
Wouldn’t that feel like a weight off your shoulders?
Local Support You Can Count On — Every Step of the Way
We’re more than just an insurance agency. We’re your neighbors.
When you call us, you won’t get bounced around to different departments. You’ll talk to someone right here in Orange Park who knows your name, your doctors, and your community.
You won’t find that level of care from a national health insurance call center.
Whether you’re looking into Medicare Advantage plans, thinking about switching from Traditional Medicare, or curious how Medicare and Medicaid services work together, we’re here to guide you. From understanding home health options to comparing private health insurance policies — we make it easy.
Your Medicare Plan Should Fit You
Every person is different. Your plan should be too.At Overton Agency, we take the time to understand your needs — not just today, but down the road. We’ll help you think ahead. That includes looking at potential long-term care costs, expected care spending, and your access to trusted care providers.
And we’re proud to serve the wonderful people of Conway Arkansas — because this is our home too.
Ready to Get Started? Let’s Talk
Choosing a Medicare plan doesn’t have to be confusing. With the right help, it can be empowering.
So don’t wait — give us a call today at 501-881-2050 or stop by the office at 1201 Oak St. We’d love to meet you, answer your questions, and help you find the plan that’s just right for your life.Let’s take care of your future, together.
FAQS
What’s the difference between Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans?
The choice between Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans impacts how you access care, pay premiums, and receive services. People with Traditional Medicare often have broader provider access, while Medicare Advantage plans may offer extra benefits but limit networks. Medicare Advantage plans pay providers differently and may lead to overpayment in Medicare Advantage cases, relative to Traditional Medicare.
Does Medicare cover long-term care or home health services?
Medicare does not pay for long-term care, like custodial nursing home stays. However, both home health aide services and skilled nursing are covered under specific medical criteria. It’s one of the key things about long-term services that Medicare beneficiaries should understand when planning for extended care needs.
What is driving growth in health care spending for Medicare?
Growth of health care costs in the U.S. is fueled by rising service prices, an aging population, and Medicare modernization policies. Major drivers of health care spending include the shift toward private health insurance plans, growth in Medicare Advantage, and the increasing use of care in the United States from hospitals and primary care networks.
How does Medicare aim to improve quality of care for patients?
Programs like Accountable Care Organizations and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid are focused on improving health care quality and reducing cost. These initiatives track quality of care delivered to Medicare beneficiaries, encouraging better care coverage, efficiency, and provider performance across the health care delivery system.
Where can I get help understanding my Medicare options?
For guidance on navigating the entire health care system as it relates to Medicare Advantage and Traditional Medicare, you can reach out to your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) or consult national resources like the National Association of Insurance Commissioners or the Office of the Health Insurance Advocate.
