Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! PRESERVING PRINCIPLES is an agency that specializes in Medicare rights and options. However, we can also help with ACA plans (Affordable Care Act: individual insurance plans) and small group plans. We also offer free quotes for life insurance products, cancer plans, dental plans, and hospital indemnity plans. Contact us today for a free quote!

PRESERVING PRINCIPLES does not currently have a storefront location, but as an independent agent, Ashley believes in taking the extra step of meeting with clients where they reside. She feels this extra measure helps to eliminate the stress and inconvenience of having to travel to an office building, as the majority of the population whom Ashley serves are in retirement or nearing retirement. Ashley is proud to connect with you in the comfort of your own home or at a local establishment such as a coffee shop or library. Ashley currently offers her services throughout the state of Iowa.

It is generally advisable to enroll in a Part D plan when you are first eligible to avoid future late enrollment penalties and to have coverage in case your medication needs change. You can compare plans based on factors such as premiums, deductibles, the formulary, pharmacy networks, and out-of-pocket costs. The Medicare Plan Finder tool on the Medicare website can help you compare plans available in your area. You can also contact SHIIP or a licensed professional (such as us at Preserving Principles).

If you or your spouse is actively working and covered by an employer group health plan with 20 or more employees, you may delay enrolling in Medicare Part B without penalty. You will qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to sign up for Part B anytime while you or your spouse are still working and covered by the employer plan, or during the 8-month period that begins the month after the employment or coverage ends, whichever happens first. Be sure to confirm with your benefits administrator that your employer coverage is considered creditable for delaying Medicare part B.

1.) Coverage Gaps in Original Medicare
Reason: Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers many healthcare services but has significant out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. For example, Part A has a hospital deductible, and Part B also has it's own deductible. Part B generally covers 80% of approved services, leaving you to pay the remaining 20%.
Concern: Without additional coverage, these out-of-pocket expenses can add up quickly, especially in the case of serious illnesses or frequent medical services.

2.) Predictable Costs and Additional Benefits:
Reason: Medigap plans help cover the costs not paid by Original Medicare, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles, making your healthcare expenses more predictable. Medicare Advantage plans often include additional benefits like dental, vision, hearing and wellness programs, which are not covered by Original Medicare.
Concern: Predictable costs can help you manage your budget better and reduce the financial burden of unexpected medical bills. Additional benefits can improve your overall health and quality of life.

3.) Network Flexibility and Coverage Options:
Reason: Medigap plans typically allow you to see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare, providing greater flexibility in choosing healthcare providers. Medicare Advantage plans, while often having network restrictions, may offer integrated care through managed care models like HMOs and PPOs, which can streamline care and provide additional support services.
Concern: Without supplemental coverage, you might face restrictions or higher costs when seeking care outside the Original Medicare network, limiting your access to preferred providers or specialists.

A deductible is an amount that you're responsible for in the event of a loss. This is the amount you pay out-of-pocket, and insurance covers the remainder.

Medicare Advantage is another way to get Medicare Part A and Part B coverage. Medicare Advantage Plans, sometimes called "Part C" or "MA Plans," are offered by Medicare-approved private companies that must follow rules set by Medicare. If you join a Medicare Advantage Plan, you'll still have Medicare, but you'll get most of your Part A and Part B coverage from your Medicare Advantage Plan, not Original Medicare. These "bundled" plans include Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance), and usually Medicare drug coverage (known as Part D). They often include additional benefits that Original Medicare does not offer (gym memberships, dental coverage, and vision are a few of many of these Part C plans include).

Most Medicare drug plans have a coverage gap (also called the "donut hole"). This means there's a temporary limit on what the drug plan will cover for drugs. Not everyone will enter the coverage gap. The coverage gap begins after you and your drug plan have spent a certain amount on covered drugs. Once you and your plan have spent $5,030 on covered drugs in 2024, you're in the coverage gap. This amount may change each year. Also, people with Medicare who get Extra Help pay Part D costs won’t enter the coverage gap.