FAQ – New to Medicare Advantage
When will I receive my new plan Member ID card?
Once you’re enrolled in your new plan, you will receive a letter from the carrier stating that your application was approved and you are now a member of your new plan. Your Member ID card and Summary of Benefits will arrive approximately 14 days prior to your new plan start date of January 1st. Your online access with the carrier will provide you links to see your Evidence of Coverage (complete description of coverage), link to search the prescription drug formulary (what drugs are covered in the plan), a link to the Pharmacy Directory (search participating pharmacies), link to Provider Directory (participating doctors, hospitals and other providers), billing information (including payment options) and Over-the-Counter benefit catalog, if applicable (a list of eligible OTC items covered under the benefits.
Do I use my new plan Member ID card when visiting a Medical Provider?
Yes. You will use your new plan Member ID card when you visit a Medical Provider or hospital. If applicable, you may need to show your Member ID card for dental and vision care visits.
Should I keep my Red, White and Blue Medicare card?
Yes. Please place your Medicare Red, White and Blue card in a safe place.
When should I cancel my employer/private non-Medicare coverage?
Do not cancel your policy until you have received your enrollment confirmation letter from your new plan carrier. Notify your current plan sponsor in advance and set the coverage to end on the date you start your new Medicare plan. At the same time, make sure your current plan coverage and new plan coverage periods are not overlapping. For example, if your new Medicare coverage starts on 09/01/2021, your previous coverage needs to be scheduled to end on 09/01/2021.
Do I still have to pay my Medicare Part B premium?
Yes. IN order to join a Medicare Advantage plan, you must continue to pay your Part B premium unless it’s paid for you by Medicaid or another third party.
I received a letter of “Declaration of Prior Prescription Drug Coverage”
from the new plan carrier. This is stating that I may have a
Part D late enrollment penalty. What do I do with this?
If this was determined that you had credible drug coverage within 63 days of enrolling in your new plan plan, you will check off the box in the enclosed form that best describes the type of creditable prescription drug coverage that you were enrolled in prior to the start of your new Medicare coverage that you were enrolled in prior to the start of your new Medicare coverage. Sign, date and return the form as soon as possible int he sled-addressed stamped envelope that the carrier provided.
Can I receive emergency care?
You have the right to emergency care, when needed, ANYWHERE in the United States WITHOUT pre-approval from your plan.
What happens if I move out of my new plan’s service area?
Please contact your licensed health insurance agent at Adolph Benefits Consulting at 443-402-3170 to discuss the necessary steps to take in order to have a seamless plan transition.
What happens if I change providers or pharmacies?
You can search online with the Provider Directory link that was provided in your new member packet, or just contact us. Your licensed health insurance agent at Adolph Benefits Consulting can confirm if your new provider/pharmacy is listed in your carrier network. Call us at 443-402-3170 or email us at [email protected] .
What should I do about the phone calls and mail that I am receiving?
Be aware of scam calls that are frequently made to take advantage of seniors. More times than not, the promises of grand prizes violate the rules of Center of Medicare and Medicaid Services and are just a ploy to collect your personal information. Should you have any questions or concerns, contact your licensed health insurance agent at Adolph Benefits Consulting at 443-402-3170.