Lawley Insurance

Blog

  • Inside Medicare: What can I do about the huge Prescription Drug Plan increase?

    Inside Medicare: What can I do about the huge Prescription Drug Plan increase?

    Lawley Medicare Solutions Learning Center:

    Ask Janell!

     

    QUESTION:  I just received a notice about my prescription drug plan. It costs $3.70 this year, but next year it will be $38.70! What can I do about that huge increase?

    ANSWER:  Insurance Season is finally here! It’s my favorite time of year, but 2025 could be shocking for many people. For 2025, we keep hearing about “significant market disruption.” In Medicare, that means more plans than usual will be discontinued in 2025, and a significant increase in premiums for many of the plans still being offered, like your Prescription Drug Plan.

    In New York State, the average premium for prescription coverage in 2024 is about $48/month. In 2025, the New York State average premium will be $72.34/month. So, while your $38.70 monthly premium is a significant increase from 2024, it’s still well below the statewide average premium.

    In New York State, in 2024, 15 stand-alone Prescription Drug Plans are available, but in 2025 that drops to 12. People enrolled in the three discontinued plans will be moved to a similar plan with the same insurance company. It’s important for you to review the material that your insurance company sends. It explains the new premiums, coverage rules, and pharmacy policies.

    A major change in 2025 is that no one will spend more than $2,000 for any medication covered by Medicare Part D. In 2024, that spending maximum was over $8,000, so that drop to $2,000 is excellent for people with many medications or an expensive medication. It’s important to evaluate your coverage and make sure it still includes your medications. I recently wrote an article just about this spending change, so you can refer to that article for more information.

    By now, everyone with Medicare has been informed of their plan changes for 2025, including premiums, copays, and other relevant information. You still have time to decide what happens next.

    The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is October 15 through December 7, and this is when you can make changes to your Medicare coverage. I highly recommend taking time to review your coverage needs around the AEP. A great way to review your options is to visit www.medicare.gov or call Medicare representatives at 1-800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). These services help review your medical needs compared to available plans.

    You can also meet with professional advisors, like insurance brokers, the Office for the Aging, or other local services. At Lawley Medicare Solutions, our team of licensed and experienced Medicare Consultants is here to help you compare plans and answer any personal questions you have about your coverage. We offer phone, virtual, or in-office appointments to suit your needs.

    In 2025, there will also be significant medication pricing differences between pharmacies. So the plan you have now may not change, but the pharmacy you’ve used may cost significantly more than a different pharmacy, possibly one right down the street.

    I’ve heard from people who don’t like paying their Prescription Drug Plan premiums and don’t feel they “need” the coverage. I still caution them against dropping coverage. If you decide to drop your prescription drug coverage, you’re penalized later if you try to enroll in a new Prescription Drug Plan. The penalty is 1% of the average premium per month you are without drug coverage. Since the average premium is $72 per month, that is a $0.72 penalty for each month you’re uninsured. If you skip drug coverage for 2025, that’s $0.72 X 12 months, making your penalty $8.64. When you add drug coverage again in 2026, that $8.64 will be tacked onto your premiums each month—and you will pay it each month for the rest of your life. This obviously adds up quickly. So even though coverage might occasionally feel like it’s not worth the premium cost, a penalty like this truly is nothing but an unnecessary cost with no benefit to you.

    It’s also important to understand that insurance is meant to protect us from what MIGHT happen. So maybe you don’t see much of a benefit to keeping your drug coverage now, but that could change quickly with a new prescription or change in a drug price.

    I look forward to the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period every year. The new plans, the new coverage, and the benefits offered present an opportunity for everyone to change their situation for the better. Don’t hesitate to contact our team at Lawley Insurance to evaluate your options and ensure you’re making the best choices for your healthcare needs.

    If you have questions or need assistance navigating your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Lawley Medicare Solutions Team. You can contact Medicare Service Team Lead Gabrielle Connor at 716.849.8223, or submit an inquiry through our contact from below. We’re here to help you find the right coverage for your needs!

    At Lawley Medicare Solutions, our Medicare and Individual Health Consultants are dedicated to helping you make the most informed decisions about your healthcare needs. We offer personalized service and expert advice tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today by phone or email to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs.

     

    Read all Inside Medicare articles HERE.

     

    LAWLEY HAS A TEAM DEDICATED TO MEDICARE INSURANCE!

    Our licensed Medicare & Individual Health Insurance team can help clients understand the details of Medicare insurance plans, assist with choosing the right benefits and coverage, and provide guidance when life events that affect health coverage occur.

    For questions, concerns, or to reach Lawley Medicare Solutions, fill out the contact form below or call 716.849.1540.

  • Lawley Partners with Sgroi Financial

    Lawley Partners with Sgroi Financial

    Sgroi Financial joins Lawley to combine expertise and create Sgroi Lawley Group, LLC

    Buffalo, NY, (October 1, 2024) | Lawley, an independent family-owned insurance broker and employee benefits firm, is proud to partner with Sgroi Financial creating a new financial planning firm, Sgroi Lawley Group, LLC. With a combined 118 years of expertise, this partnership merges two multi-generational businesses committed to serving families and businesses in the Western New York community.

    This partnership was orchestrated by Sgroi Financial President Patrick J. Sgroi and Senior Vice President John G. Clouden and Lawley Principal Chris Ross.

    For over 65 years, Lawley’s goal has been to protect assets and minimize risk to help their customers avoid financial hardship. For 25 of those years, the employee benefits strategy has been focused largely in the 401(k) space with the goal of creating better outcomes for retirees and providing plan governance to plan sponsors. Now, with the addition of the Sgroi team, they are able to offer holistic financial planning to each of their clients.

    This merger follows a strategic partnership formed in 2016 between Sgroi Financial and Lawley to expand product offerings including property and casualty insurance and Medicare solutions to Sgroi Financial clients. Sgroi wealth management clients will continue to work with the same financial advisor, the same support staff, and all aspects of investment accounts will remain unchanged, including account numbers and investment products.

    “We want to make it clear that this merger is not based on our desire to scale back or retire, rather it has energized us even more to continue in our growth trajectory,” says Patrick J. Sgroi, Sgroi Financial President.

    “All of us at Sgroi Lawley Group, LLC are excited about our new partnership and the benefits it will bring our clients,” says John G. Clouden, Sgroi Financial, Senior Vice President.

    “We’re excited to partner with Sgroi Financial LLC and expand our product offerings and our footprint throughout the northeast,” says Chris Ross, Lawley Principal.

    “As Sgroi holds similar values to Lawley, we’re proud to bring them on board and excited to work together to provide the best service to all clients,” says Bill Lawley, Jr., Lawley Principal.

    ABOUT SGROI FINANCIAL LLC
    Founded in 1971 by Joseph Sgroi, Sgroi Financial LLC is a full-service firm providing all of your financial planning needs. This includes everything from your investments and retirement plans to life insurance and long-term care. Sgroi Financial LLC provides Investment Management, Insurance & Risk Management, Retirement Plan Design, Diversifying Assets, Estate Planning, Tax Planning, Retirement Planning, Charitable Planning, and Succession/Exit Planning. Sgroi Financial LLC understands that each client’s circumstances are unique and is committed to helping people achieve financial independence.

  • Inside Medicare: What to Do If Your Medicare Insurance Plan is Discontinued

    Inside Medicare: What to Do If Your Medicare Insurance Plan is Discontinued

    Lawley Medicare Solutions Learning Center:

    Ask Janell!

     

    QUESTION:  I just received a notification from my Medicare insurance company stating that my 2024 plan is being discontinued and won’t be offered in 2025. What should I do?

    ANSWER:  It’s that time of year again—Happy Insurance Season! If you’ve received a notice that your insurance plan is being discontinued, it’s important to take action promptly.

    Here’s what you need to know:

    Understanding Your Options

    1. Timeline for Enrollment: When your plan is discontinued, you have additional time to make decisions for 2025. In addition to the standard Annual Enrollment Period from October 15 to December 7, you have until December 31 to enroll in a new plan that begins on January 1. However, if you choose to wait until January or February to enroll, you will face a gap in coverage—specifically, you will only have Original Medicare without drug coverage during that time.
    2. Annual Notice of Change (ANOC): Normally, if your plan is still being offered, you would receive an ANOC detailing changes for the upcoming year. Since your plan is being discontinued, you likely did not receive this document. Instead, your notification serves as a reminder to seek alternative coverage before the end of the year.
    3. Research Alternatives: It’s crucial to start looking for new insurance options as soon as possible. Compare available plans to find one that meets your healthcare needs and budget. Consider reaching out to a knowledgeable consultant on our team to help evaluate your options.
    4. Enrollment Process: If you decide to enroll in a new plan during the designated enrollment period, ensure you complete the process by December 31 to avoid any lapse in coverage.

    If you have questions or need assistance navigating your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Lawley Medicare Solutions Team. You can contact Medicare Service Team Lead Gabrielle Connor at 716.849.8223, or submit an inquiry through our contact from below. We’re here to help you find the right coverage for your needs!

    At Lawley Medicare Solutions, our Medicare and Individual Health Consultants are dedicated to helping you make the most informed decisions about your healthcare needs. We offer personalized service and expert advice tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today by phone or email to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs.

     

    Read all Inside Medicare articles HERE.

     

    LAWLEY HAS A TEAM DEDICATED TO MEDICARE INSURANCE!

    Our licensed Medicare & Individual Health Insurance team can help clients understand the details of Medicare insurance plans, assist with choosing the right benefits and coverage, and provide guidance when life events that affect health coverage occur.

    For questions, concerns, or to reach Lawley Medicare Solutions, fill out the contact form below or call 716.849.1540.

  • Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Businesses

    Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Businesses

    Hurricanes are tropical cyclones that form over tropical or subtropical waters. As a result of the high winds and water they bring ashore, hurricanes can destroy or damage homes, businesses and public infrastructure, as well as cause injuries or loss of life.

    The number of severe tropical storms and hurricanes is increasing, and businesses in coastal areas are especially susceptible to their effects.

    Significant portions of the United States are at risk of experiencing the effects of tropical storms and hurricanes. While the greatest threat to life and property is along the coasts due to storm surges and large waves, the impacts of hurricanes and tropical storms can be felt hundreds of miles inland. Heavy rains, strong winds, wind-driven rain, coastal and inland flooding, tornadoes and coastal storm surges can pose risks to businesses, homes and people.

    While it may not be possible to prevent the occurrence of a hurricane,
    there are measures you can take to protect your business. 

    Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Businesses

    Before a Hurricane

    A hurricane watch will be issued 48 hours before hurricane conditions are expected to reach land. Be prepared to act when the watch is issued and protect your physical property from the upcoming storm. The following should be taken into consideration when assessing the potential scope of hurricane damage.

    People—It’s essential to keep an accurate, up-to-date employee contact list. This is particularly important if many employees work remotely, as they may be scattered throughout the country and need different types of assistance when a hurricane hits

    Suppliers—Even if a hurricane does not directly damage your business, it can affect other organizations you rely on to conduct operations. When conducting your assessment, address how you’ll communicate with suppliers to account for business interruptions and potential delays.

    Locations and assets—To minimize downtime after a hurricane hits, back up your data on-premises, at a remote site and in the cloud; identify a separate, more secure location where you can move physical assets to help to minimize damages; and be sure to review your disaster and flood insurance policies to ensure you meet all documentation requirements

    • Be aware of the unique threats to your operational area. Businesses within 50 miles of the shoreline are at a greater risk of property damage and business interruption since they are more susceptible to storm surge flooding, extreme winds, tornadoes and inland flooding from rainfall.
    • Understand what type of damage to expect from hurricane winds. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a rating that ranges from 1 to 5 based on a hurricane’s sustained miles-per-hour (mph) wind speed and estimates potential property damage. The rating scale is as follows:
    • Review and practice your plan. One of the most effective ways to minimize the impact of a hurricane is to have a plan in place that is reviewed and practiced regularly. Be sure to test the plan and educate employees through training, drills and mock disasters.
    • Develop a business continuity plan. A business continuity plan establishes protocols on how your business should respond in case of an emergency or natural disaster. To prepare a business continuity plan

    During a Hurricane

    If necessary, evacuation arrangements should be made before the hurricane hits land. If it’s determined that it’s safe to stay on-site during the storm, complete the following:

    • Watch for roof leaks, pipe breakage, fire or structural damage, and make repairs as necessary.
    • Check the sprinkler water pressure and watch for loss of pressure.
    • Turn off electrical switches if a power outage occurs to avoid reactivation before necessary checks are completed.
    • Shelter in place, if necessary.

    After a Hurricane

    Hurricanes pose a serious threat to the economy when business owners aren’t prepared following a storm. To return to normal operations as quickly as possible:

    • Follow all instructions from local authorities.
    • Perform a status check on employees to see if they are in need of help.
    • Wait until the area your business is located in is declared safe before surveying the damage.
    • Use caution on the roads, and turn around if a road is flooded or barricaded.
    • Set up a phone number or website to communicate with employees and customers.
    • Take photographs of any damage.

    Contact a professional to survey for safety hazards, including live wires, gas leaks and damage to foundations or underground piping.

    Lawley is committed to helping you and your loved ones stay safe when disaster strikes. To discuss options right for you,  contact us today.

  • Inside Medicare: What You Need to Know About 2025 Changes to Medicare Insurance Coverage

    Inside Medicare: What You Need to Know About 2025 Changes to Medicare Insurance Coverage

    Lawley Medicare Solutions Learning Center:

    Ask Janell!

     

    QUESTION: What changes do I need to know about the 2025 insurance season, particularly regarding prescription drug coverage?

    ANSWER:

    As we approach the 2025 insurance season, significant changes are on the horizon, particularly regarding prescription drug coverage. Here’s what you need to know:

    Key Changes for 2025

    1. No Coverage Gap (Donut Hole): One of the most notable changes is the elimination of the coverage gap, commonly referred to as the “donut hole.” This means that beneficiaries will no longer face increased costs for medications after reaching a certain spending threshold.
    2. Deductibles and Initial Coverage Phase: For 2025, the maximum deductible for Medicare Part D plans will be capped at $590. After meeting this deductible, you will enter the Initial Coverage phase, where your medications will be divided into tiers. Your copay will depend on the tier assigned to each medication.
    3. Out-of-Pocket Maximum: In 2025, your copays will accumulate toward a maximum out-of-pocket limit of $2,000. Once you reach this amount, your copays for covered medications will drop to $0 for the remainder of the year.
    4. Changes to Medication Tiers: Each insurance plan categorizes medications into tiers, and while your medications may remain the same, the tiers can change annually. It’s essential to review the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) packet to understand if your medications have been reassigned to a different tier, which can affect your costs.
    5. Medicare Advantage Plans: If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you will receive an ANOC that outlines changes to your monthly premium, the Part D prescription drug benefit, and any adjustments to health insurance copay structures. Be sure to read this information carefully to understand how your coverage may change.

    Next Steps

    As you prepare for the 2025 Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 to December 7, take the time to research and understand these changes. If you have questions or need assistance, we encourage you to reach out to the Lawley Medicare Solutions Team. Contact Medicare Service Team Lead Gabrielle Connor at 716.849.8223, or submit an inquiry with our contact form below. Our team is here to help you navigate your options and secure the best coverage for your needs. Happy Insurance Season!

     

    At Lawley Medicare Solutions, our Medicare and Individual Health Consultants are dedicated to helping you make the most informed decisions about your healthcare needs. We offer personalized service and expert advice tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today by phone or email to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs.

     

    Read all Inside Medicare articles HERE.

     

    LAWLEY HAS A TEAM DEDICATED TO MEDICARE INSURANCE!

    Our licensed Medicare & Individual Health Insurance team can help clients understand the details of Medicare insurance plans, assist with choosing the right benefits and coverage, and provide guidance when life events that affect health coverage occur.

    For questions, concerns, or to reach Lawley Medicare Solutions, fill out the contact form below or call 716.849.1540.

  • The Importance of Insurance to Value for Commercial Property Coverage

    The Importance of Insurance to Value for Commercial Property Coverage

    When purchasing or renewing commercial property insurance, it’s vital to ensure such coverage includes correct property valuations. Doing so can make all the difference in providing sufficient protection and preventing coinsurance penalties amid covered property losses. Conducting an accurate insurance-to-value (ITV) can provide an approximation of the full cost to replace or restore insured property.

    Factors Impacting Property Value

    • Direct and indirect expenses | Property valuations should incorporate both direct and indirect costs to ensure all aspects of rebuilding are included.
    • Property age | Any additional construction costs needed to upgrade outdated building materials and equipment should be included.
    • Building codes | As older properties may also require certain modifications to comply with modern building codes, these adjustments may further compound construction costs and thus increase property valuations.
    • Property accessibility | Properties situated at steep locations or adjacent to neighboring structures may need to have bracing or other safety measures put in place during demolition and rebuilding operations to ensure accessibility. These measures should also be factored into property valuations.
    • Unique features | Custom property elements (e.g., stained glass) could require specialized construction work, elevating rebuilding costs.

    Ways to Improve Property Valuations

    Here are some additional best practices to help ensure accurate ITV calculations and improve property valuation measures:

    • Find a reputable appraiser | Third-party appraisals are considered the gold standard in property valuations by insurers, as they offer reassurance that calculations were conducted by experienced and objective professionals. As such, it’s vital to secure a trusted and reputable appraiser. Be sure to find a firm that follows the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice and the Code of Professional Ethics and Standards of Professional Practice from the Appraisal Institute.
    • Seek additional resources | In addition to getting an appraisal, there are additional industry resources, reference guides and validated tools available to help ensure accurate property valuations. Specifically, the Marshall & Swift Valuation Service Cost Manual is a tool that is widely accepted by insurers. This resource features more than 30,000 component costs across 300 building occupancies that can be referenced when conducting valuations.
    • Consult other parties | Determining the value of a property should be a team effort. Make sure to compile a variety of property data from multiple qualified parties when making valuation decisions.
    • Make updates as needed | The value of a property is always changing. This means it’s imperative to update property valuations on a regular basis. For instance, appraisals should be conducted at least every three to five years. The frequency will depend on factors such as changing property exposures, altered operations, building upgrades or modifications, the implementation of new technology or equipment on-site, shifting market conditions, and property construction trends (e.g., inflated labor and material costs).

    Consequences of Property Undervaluation

    Businesses could face a number of ramifications if they conduct inaccurate ITV calculations and undervalue their properties. Your business could be lacking sufficient coverage following property losses, forcing out-of-pocket expenses & result in coinsurance penalties. Most commercial property insurance policies include coinsurance clauses, which encourage policyholders to carry reasonable and accurate amounts of coverage.

    Ultimately, it’s clear that correct property valuations are critical in securing adequate commercial property insurance. By better understanding how to conduct accurate ITV calculations, businesses can stay protected when covered events occur and avoid potential coinsurance penalties.

    At Lawley, our dedicated real estate team understands the importance of correct property valuations, understands specific risks, and will work you every step of the way. Contact us today to find out how we can help protect what you’ve worked so hard to build.

  • The Health Benefits of Yoga

    The Health Benefits of Yoga

    Yoga has been practiced for more than 5,000 years as a way to improve health and well-being. By uniting the mind, body and spirit, the health benefits of practicing yoga can be seen both physically and mentally.

    Yoga Basics

    Yoga is a science that consists of observations, principles and theories regarding the connection between the mind, body and spirit. It is physically, emotionally and mentally challenging. Because of this, many people think that you already need to be flexible and in good physical shape in order to practice yoga. However, this is not true.

    Yoga will help you become more aware of your body’s patterns of movement, posture and alignment—increasing your flexibility and fitness level. Yoga is also often used as a stress-management and relaxation technique.

    The practice of yoga involves performing a variety of poses, called asanas, along with breathing exercises and meditation to cleanse and unify your body, mind and spirit. These combined actions increase blood circulation, which can stimulate the body to “flush out” toxins. Regular practice of the stretches, twists, bends and inversions—the basic movements of yoga poses—have many physical and mental health benefits.

    Flexibility

    Because yoga requires you to stretch your body in new and sometimes unfamiliar ways, it helps you to become more flexible by using a greater range of motion of your muscles and joints. This releases the lactic acid build-up within your muscles that causes stiffness, tension and fatigue. Yoga also stretches the soft tissues of your body, such as ligaments and tendons. As you continue to practice yoga, you can expect to notice increased flexibility in your back, hamstrings, hips and shoulders.

    Strength

    There are many specific styles of yoga, and practicing any kind of yoga will help improve muscle tone and strength. While some poses target upper-body strength and others stress lower-body strength, almost all yoga poses build core strength in the abdominal muscles.

    Posture

    With greater flexibility and strength comes better posture. Because yoga poses develop core strength and body awareness, you will become more conscious of your posture. With a stronger core, you are also more likely to sit and stand without slouching.

    Stress Reduction

    Any kind of physical activity contributes to relieving stress, and this is especially true with yoga. Due to yoga’s quiet and precise movements, it has the capability to pull your focus away from busy daily responsibilities and toward a more calm state by moving your body through sets of poses with balance and concentration.

  • Food Safety Awareness

    Food Safety Awareness

    Each year millions of people fall ill due to food poisoning, which occurs after consuming foods that are contaminated during preparation.

    Thawing Food Properly

    When thawing food, outer sections warm up faster than inner sections, which can cause microorganisms to grow. That is why it is important to follow the correct thawing suggestions below, depending on your method, to prevent the growth of microorganisms:

    • In the refrigerator—Thaw food at 41°F or lower to keep harmful microorganisms from growing.
    • Under running water—Thaw food at about 70°F or lower.
    • In the microwave—Only thaw food in the microwave if the food will be cooked immediately.
    • During the cooking process—Some foods can be thawed while cooking, such as frozen hamburger patties on a grill.

    Preparing Food Safely

    To avoid cross-contamination, adhere to the following practices:

    • Wash your hands using hot, soapy water before handling food and between touching different types of food.
    • Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and already prepared/cooked foods.
    • Clean all work surfaces and equipment after each task, especially when handling raw foods.

    Cooling and Reheating Food

    When cooling food, time spent in the temperature danger zone must be minimized. When being reheated, food must reach the correct temperature in the right amount of time.

    To properly cool food:

    • Divide large quantities of food into small shallow containers for quicker cooling.
    • Refrigerate or freeze prepared food and leftovers within two hours.
    • Stir food to cool it faster and more evenly.
    • Do not pack the refrigerator—cool air must circulate.

    To properly reheat food:

    • Make sure food reaches an internal temperature of 165⁰F for at least 15 seconds. Throw out any food that doesn’t reach this temperature within two hours.
  • Health Benefits of Walking

    Health Benefits of Walking

    If you are looking for an easy and inexpensive way to stay healthy or lose weight, you need nothing more than your own two feet. Walking is an ideal form of exercise—it’s free, and you can do it almost anytime and anywhere. Walking is also a great way to maintain a healthy weight or to shed those extra pounds.

    The First Step: Good Shoes

    Whether you walk outdoors, on a treadmill or at the local mall, you will want to invest in a good pair of walking shoes. Walking shoes are designed to give you the flexibility, support and proper push off needed for walking. Everyone’s feet are different, but look for shoes that are light, flexible and immediately feel comfortable. Walking shoes should not require a “breaking in” period.

    Setting the Pace

    You can walk to maintain your health or as part of a weight-loss program. To get moving, experts advise beginners to start with a 15- or 30-minute walk daily, adding five or 10 minutes to the walking session time per week. More specifically:

    • To maintain your health, walk 30 minutes a day most days of the week at a “talking” pace, which means you are able to carry on a conversation comfortably while walking.
    • If you are walking for weight loss, walk 45 to 60 minutes a day at a medium to fast pace. In addition, do not skip more than two days per week.
    • For aerobic and cardiovascular fitness, walk 20 minutes at a very fast pace (you should be breathing hard), three to four days a week.

    After walking, gentle stretching can help keep your muscles from being sore. It is also wise to warm up before walking fast or going a long distance.

    Cautions

    Make sure to be safe while walking outside:

    • Always walk on sidewalks (or on the left side of the street facing traffic if there are no sidewalks).
    • Be aware of traffic.
    • Carry identification and your cellphone in case of emergencies.
    • In the evening hours, wear reflective gear and/or carry a flashlight in front of you.

    Going the Distance

    Once you get started, you will want to stay motivated. Consider finding a walking friend, joining a walking club or registering for a challenging walking event. Remember that you will not notice immediate physical changes to your body, but by adding walking and a healthy diet to your daily routine, it won’t be long before you look and feel better.

    Note: Before beginning any walking program, consider discussing your exercise plans with your doctor, particularly if you have health issues such as diabetes.

  • Inside Medicare: Are the calls I’m receiving from Medicare really from Medicare?

    Inside Medicare: Are the calls I’m receiving from Medicare really from Medicare?

    Lawley Medicare Solutions Learning Center:

    Ask Janell!

     

    QUESTION:  I’ve been receiving numerous phone calls from individuals claiming they are calling from Medicare to review my coverage. Are these calls really from Medicare?

     

    ANSWER:  This is one of the most common questions I receive, and I can confidently say that these callers are not from Medicare. When you receive a phone call about your Medicare coverage or someone claiming to call on behalf of Medicare, my advice is to hang up. These calls are likely from insurance companies that contract with Medicare to offer insurance coverage, often Medicare Advantage Plans. Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, and Medicare Supplement Plans typically pay commissions to brokers who enroll individuals into these plans. These commissions could be a one-time payment or ongoing, depending on how long you stay with the plan.

    For accurate and trustworthy guidance, we strongly recommend working with a licensed and dedicated Medicare Consultant. Our team at Lawley Medicare Solutions is committed to providing you with the most personalized and comprehensive advice tailored to your specific needs. Unlike unsolicited calls, we offer a thorough and transparent review of your options without the pressure of sales tactics.

    The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rarely contacts individuals directly. If they do, it is usually because you’ve initiated contact to address an issue. CMS primarily communicates through mail, such as sending your Medicare Card, the Medicare & You handbook, and Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs). If you’re not receiving Social Security benefits, you may also receive a quarterly bill for your Medicare Part B premium from CMS.

    Many people turning 65 or those already enrolled in Medicare report receiving frequent calls from insurance companies, often from the same company. These brokers may claim to be “calling regarding your Medicare coverage” or “on behalf of Medicare.”

    Additionally, you may hear from your current insurance company about “additional benefits” you might be eligible for. This usually occurs when the company offers multiple insurance products, such as Medicare Supplement Plans and Prescription Drug Plans, and wants to introduce you to their Medicare Advantage Plan, which bundles these products into one. While Medicare Advantage Plans often feature lower premiums, they typically come with higher co-pays for care and may include extra benefits like health club memberships, eyewear discounts, dental coverage, or over-the-counter benefits. Some plans even offer a partial rebate on your Part B premium.

    Switching to a Medicare Advantage Plan requires careful consideration of factors such as whether your doctors, labs, and hospitals are in-network and whether your medications are covered at your preferred pharmacy.

    To help you navigate these complex decisions, our team at Lawley Medicare Solutions is here to offer expert guidance. Just as not every car suits every driver, not every Medicare plan is right for everyone. With numerous plans available throughout Western New York, choosing the right plan can be overwhelming. We take the time to understand your unique situation and provide personalized recommendations that fit your needs.

    If you receive a call about your Medicare coverage or someone claims to be calling on behalf of Medicare, it’s best to hang up. If you’re interested in exploring your options, reach out to us. We’ll provide you with clear, unbiased information and help you evaluate your choices based on factors like your doctor network, preferred pharmacy, medications, and travel plans.
    If you receive a new insurance card or a cancellation notice from your current plan and believe it might be incorrect, contact us for assistance. If you need immediate help, you can also reach out to The Office For the Aging or your previous insurance broker. It’s essential to act promptly if you wish to address or contest the new coverage.

    At Lawley Medicare Solutions, our Medicare and Individual Health Consultants are dedicated to helping you make the most informed decisions about your healthcare needs. We offer personalized service and expert advice tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today by phone or email to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs.

     

    Read all Inside Medicare articles HERE.

     

    LAWLEY HAS A TEAM DEDICATED TO MEDICARE INSURANCE!

    Our licensed Medicare & Individual Health Insurance team can help clients understand the details of Medicare insurance plans, assist with choosing the right benefits and coverage, and provide guidance when life events that affect health coverage occur.

    For questions, concerns, or to reach Lawley Medicare Solutions, fill out the contact form below or call 716.849.1540.