Welcome!

In this episode we talk again with Niki Feret, our resident expert on all things Medicare!

AI summary:

In this episode of 'Real Conversations About Aging Parents,' host Rebecca Tapia welcomes back Nikki Ferret, a Medicare expert and owner of Brickhouse Agency. The discussion delves into a comprehensive overview of Medicare, including the differences between Parts A, B, C, and D, and the benefits and challenges of Medicare Advantage and supplemental plans. Nikki offers updates on important timelines and changes due to the Inflation Reduction Act, impacting Medicare drug plans. They also discuss tips for adult children helping their aging parents navigate Medicare options, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and utilizing resources like agents during the annual election period.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Reintroduction

01:47 Overview of Medicare Parts A and B

05:00 Medicare Part C: Medicare Advantage Plans

06:35 Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Plans

09:07 Navigating Medicare Advantage Plans

18:44 Medicare Supplement Plans

22:31 Upcoming Changes in Medicare Plans

23:32 Medicare Enrollment Timeline and Drug Plan Changes

24:00 Impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on Medicare

24:26 Understanding the New Drug Plan Stages

26:25 Annual Notice of Change: What to Look For

27:06 Switching Medicare Plans: Key Considerations

34:59 Medicare Advantage vs. Supplement Plans

41:14 Future Trends in Medicare

44:28 Resources and Contact Information

More about Niki Feret:

https://brickhouseagency.com/

https://chicagolandmedicare.com/

Chicagoland Medicare is a premier boutique Medicare insurance agency dedicated to serving retirees in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Powered by Brickhouse Agency, LLC—licensed in over 30 states nationwide—the agency specializes exclusively in Medicare, offering expertise and personalized service. With a focus solely on Medicare, Chicagoland Medicare and Brickhouse Agency are passionate about guiding clients through the complexities of Medicare plans and options. They take the time to educate, answer all your questions, and enroll you in the right Medicare insurance policy when you’re ready. To accommodate your busy schedule, they offer meetings via Zoom and phone with a user-friendly website that features an easy scheduling platform. The goal of Chicagoland Medicare and Brickhouse Agency is to empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and to provide support every step of the way.

If you'd like to include my upcoming webinar dates and times in any communication you have with your audience, here is that info:

Confused and overwhelmed by Medicare?

You’re not alone.

Whether you're new to Medicare or trying to navigate your plan's changes for 2025 it’s important to stay updated and informed.  You want to make the best Medicare insurance plan choices for your needs.

Register for one of our free Prepare for Medicare virtual seminars where we'll cover:

- 2025 changes to the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan

- Understanding the basics of Original Medicare

- Compare Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage plans

- How to enroll if you're new to Medicare

- How to avoid lifetime late enrollment penalties

- Yearly Medicare housekeeping to-dos

Dates and registration link:

September 28, 10am Central

Register here

October 2, 1pm Central

Register here

October 26, 10am Central

Register here

November 9, 10am Central

Register here

November 12, 2pm Central

Register here

Caveats:

• This is a judgement free zone
• There are no "shoulds" allowed, we live in curiosity
• Take what works well for you, leave the rest!
• This podcast is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as formal legal, financial or medical advice

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Rebecca

Disclaimer: The information presented on this podcast is solely for information purposes. We do not provide medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice through this podcast and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. It is your responsibility to seek advice from a licensed professional. Any actions you take are done at your own risk.