Question 1

When do I need to sign up for Medicare?

Accepted Answer

If you're already receiving Social Security benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B, and your card should arrive about 3 months before your 65th birthday.
If you’re not receiving Social Security yet, you’ll need to manually enroll through Social Security (online, by phone, or in person).

Question 2

Does Medicare cover dental, vision, and hearing?

Accepted Answer

Original Medicare does not cover routine dental care, eye exams, glasses, hearing aids, or fittings. You can purchase standalone dental, vision, and hearing plans or choose a Medicare Advantage plan that includes extra benefits.

Question 3

How much does it cost to work with Golden Meadowlark Insurance?

Accepted Answer

Our services are completely FREE to you.
Whether you enroll through us or directly with the insurance company, the price is exactly the same. The difference? With us, you get a trusted local expert helping you navigate your options—at no extra cost.

Question 4

What health insurance options are available if I'm under 65?

Accepted Answer

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Plans – Available during Open Enrollment (Nov. 1 – Jan. 15) or with a Special Enrollment if you lose coverage.
Short-Term Health Insurance – A temporary plan for gaps in coverage, like between jobs or waiting for new benefits.
Health Care Sharing Programs – A faith-based, non-traditional coverage option.

Question 5

Does Medicare cover long-term care services?

Accepted Answer

Medicaredoes not typically cover long-term care services, such as custodial care in a nursing home or assisted living facility. However, it may cover short-term skilled nursing care or rehabilitation services after a hospital stay. For long-term care coverage, individuals often consider Medicaid or private long-term care insurance policies.

Question 6

How do I qualify for a Special Enrollment Period?

Accepted Answer

You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you experience certain life events, such as:
Losing existing health coverage (e.g., job-based, individual, or student plans).
Moving to a different ZIP code or county.
Experiencing changes in your household (e.g., marriage, divorce, birth of a child).
Becoming eligible for Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Question 7

What is coinsurance, and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Coinsuranceis your share of the costs of a covered healthcare service, calculated as a percentage (e.g., 20%) of the allowed amount for the service. You start paying coinsurance after you've paid your plan's deductible. For example, if your plan's allowed amount for a service is $100 and you've met your deductible, your 20% coinsurance payment would be $20.

Question 8

What is the difference between an HMO and a PPO plan?

Accepted Answer

HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Requires members to choose a primary care physician (PCP) and obtain referrals to see specialists. Coverage is typically limited to providers within the HMO network.
 PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): Offers more flexibility, allowing members to see any healthcare provider without a referral, both in-network and out-of-network, though out-of-network services may come with higher costs.

Frequently asked questions