At Overton Agency, we meet folks every day who are new to Medicare or looking to make changes to their current coverage. Many feel overwhelmed or unsure about the next steps. That’s totally normal. The Medicare program can feel like a puzzle with way too many pieces. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to figure it out alone.
We’re right here in Conway, Arkansas, ready to guide you with local expertise, plain language, and friendly advice. We’ve seen firsthand what happens when people forget to ask the right questions during their Medicare enrollment period. It can lead to stress, surprise bills, or the wrong Medicare plan.
So today, we’re laying it all out — the key questions you need to ask your licensed insurance agent before you enroll in Medicare. Because being prepared makes all the difference.
What Medicare Plans Do You Offer In My Area?
Not every Medicare agent offers every Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement plan in your ZIP code. Some agents are only allowed to sell plans from a few insurance companies. That limits your options without you even knowing.
You want an advisor who can help you compare every plan available in your area. This ensures you see all your choices — not just the ones your agent is paid to promote. Ask if they can help with both Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare supplement insurance (also called Medigap).Want to know if your doctor accepts a plan? Ask us to double-check. We’ll make sure your providers and prescriptions are covered.
Does This Plan Cover My Doctors, Prescriptions, and Hospitals?
This question is a big one, yet many Medicare beneficiaries forget to ask it. Not all plans offer the same prescription drug coverage, networks, or hospital access. If you have a favorite doctor or nearby hospital, you want to make sure they’re in-network.
Bring a list of your meds and providers when you talk to your insurance agent. We’ll match you with a Medicare plan that fits your exact needs.
What Extra Benefits Are Included In This Medicare Advantage Plan?
Lots of folks get excited when they hear about dental, vision, or hearing coverage in a Medicare Advantage plan. And we get it. Those extras can save you money and give peace of mind.
But these benefits vary a lot. Some plans offer generous extras, and others don’t. Ask your agent what’s included and how it works. Do you need referrals? Are there limits? Will you pay more out-of-pocket?
What Happens If I Move or Travel Often?
Whether you’re heading north for summer or thinking about relocating, your Medicare coverage could change. Medicare Advantage plans are tied to your local area, so moving zip codes may mean you need a new plan.
We always walk our clients through what moving means for their benefits. It’s one more reason to work with a local agent who can help when life changes.
Can I Change Plans Later?
Medicare is complicated, and your health needs might shift. Ask your insurance advisor if the plan you pick can be changed during the Annual Enrollment Period or if a Special Enrollment Period might apply to you.
Not sure what these enrollment periods mean? Don’t worry. We’ll explain it clearly and help you set reminders, so you don’t miss a thing.
What Will I Pay Monthly and Out-of-Pocket?
Too many people sign up for a plan based on the premium alone. But that’s only part of the story. Ask your agent about:
- Monthly premium
- Deductible amounts
- Part B costs
- Co-pays for doctor visits or hospital stays
- Your maximum out-of-pocket limit
Understanding all the costs — not just what’s advertised — helps you make a smart choice that fits your budget.
Who Cancels My Old Coverage If I Switch?
When you switch plans, it’s vital that someone cancels your old policy. If not, you might pay for two plans at once — yikes. Ask your agent if they handle this or if you need to call your previous insurance company.
At Overton Agency, we help every step of the way so nothing falls through the cracks.
Are You Local and Easy To Reach?
You’d be surprised how many folks sign up with a call center or online broker who disappears once the sale is done. Choosing a local state health insurance program advisor means you get help when you need it — not just at enrollment.
We’re proud to serve the Conway Arkansas community. Our office at 1201 Oak St is always open to answer questions. You can also call us anytime at 501-881-2050. That’s what neighbors are for.
Do You Follow Medicare Marketing Guidelines?
Believe it or not, some agents bend the rules to make a sale. You deserve someone who follows Medicare marketing guidelines and puts your interests first.
Ask your agent how they stay up-to-date with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services rules. We train all year to stay compliant and honest. We think trust matters.
Can You Help With Medicare Part B and Other Enrollment Steps?
If you’re new to Medicare, there’s a lot to juggle. From applying for Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B to choosing a Part D plan (prescription drug plan) for your prescriptions — the process can get confusing.
Let us help. We’ll explain the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, guide you through the enrollment period, and make sure every form is done right.
What’s The Difference Between A Medicare Advantage Or A Medicare Supplement Plan?
This is another question people forget to ask. The difference between a Medicare Advantage and a Medicare Supplement plan (Medigap) can affect everything from how you access care to how much you pay.
Here’s the short version:
- Medicare Advantage plans often include drug coverage, extras like dental, and local provider networks.
- Medicare Supplement plans work alongside Original Medicare and help pay costs like coinsurance or deductibles. They don’t include drug coverage, so you’ll need a separate Part D plan.
Not sure which is best for you? We’ll help you compare the pros and cons side by side.
Let’s Make Medicare Easy
We know Medicare can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot of information out there, and too many people forget to ask questions that really matter.
But here at Overton Agency, we believe no one should have to navigate this alone. We take pride in offering clear advice, personalized service, and a local touch that you can trust. Whether you’re new to Medicare, looking to change plans, or just have a few questions — we’re here to help.
Stop by our office at 1201 Oak St in Conway Arkansas, or give us a call at 501-881-2050 . You don’t have to get this perfect the first time — you just have to talk to someone who cares.Let’s make your Medicare journey simple, affordable, and stress-free.
FAQS
What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage and a Medicare Supplement plan?
The difference between a Medicare Advantage plan and a Medicare Supplement plan lies in how they work with Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Parts A and B, while a supplement plan adds coverage to traditional Medicare. Always talk to an agent to decide which fits your health needs and budget best.
What questions should I ask my Medicare agent?
When speaking to a licensed insurance agent, be sure to ask several questions like: What plans offer extra benefits? Does Medicare cover dental or vision? What’s the difference between Medicare Part A and Part B? And, is this plan available in your area? Never forget to ask about network limitations or drug coverage.
When can I enroll in a Medicare plan?
You can sign up for Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period, or later during Annual Enrollment or a Special Enrollment Period, depending on your situation. If you’re applying for Medicare late, you may face penalties. A local State Health Insurance Assistance Program can help you navigate Medicare rules.
How do Medicare marketing guidelines affect plan availability?
Medicare agents must follow strict Medicare marketing guidelines and cannot offer every plan available unless they’re contracted to do so. Many agents are limited to those plans they’re licensed to sell in your area. If in doubt, please contact Medicare.gov or the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid for complete listings.
Is there a tool to help compare Medicare plans?
Yes — the Medicare Plan Finder tool is a helpful online resource to compare Medicare supplemental plans, Medicare Advantage plans, and drug coverage options. It even shows one to five stars for quality ratings. Still, Medicare is complicated, so consider working with an agent who can help explain the details to Medicare beneficiaries.
