Frequently Asked Questions

Top 10 Medicare questions

1. What exactly are my options as a Medicare recipient?

You have two options when you go on Medicare: either a Medicare Supplement or a Medicare Advantage plan. Here’s how they compare.

2. Why am I getting so many calls and so much mail?

Many companies want to sell you their product. They’ve bought your name and information from a database company, and they consider you a prospect. We don’t work that way — and we don’t sell or share anyone’s details.

3. What is the difference between all the companies and plans?

Some are strong in some areas, some in others. They all fall into one of two categories — a Supplement or an Advantage plan. It’s my job as an independent agent to go over the positives and negatives of each plan and company.

4. When I decide on a plan, how do I proceed?

There are two ways to buy a Medicare plan: directly from a company (or an agent who works solely for one company), or from an independent agent contracted with a number of companies. Either route costs you the same.

The main benefits of using an independent broker are that if you have a problem you have one person to call — not an 800 number with a different stranger each time — and that an independent agent can look out for your best interest and go through every option you have.

5. How am I able to get coverage with a $0 monthly premium?

Because you paid into Medicare over the years, Medicare pays a monthly premium on your behalf to the insurance company providing the coverage. This varies from county to county.

6. How does the agent get paid?

The insurance company pays me a commission. I’ll be on record as your agent, available to advise you and help resolve problems. It doesn’t cost you any more in premium.

7. Why do premiums vary between companies if the coverage is basically the same?

Some companies are more aggressive with Medicare products. Others treat it as a service to their existing clientele.

8. What about prescription drug coverage?

That’s Part D. Some Advantage plans include drug coverage; most people who choose a Supplement enroll in a standalone drug plan.

9. What if I have current group coverage through work or retirement?

It comes down to coverage and cost. It’s important to look at what you have now and what it’s costing you — some people find they can get better coverage for the same or a similar price. Going through your current coverage and comparing it to your options is part of my job.

10. Why should I consider Jason Burgess as my agent?

Service, integrity and education. You’ll have all of my numbers in case you ever have a problem. You’ll be presented with your options with no bias toward any particular company or plan. My job is to get you the information you need to make an informed decision about your coverage.

A few more questions we get

What should I consider when selecting Medicare insurance?

To begin with, it’s important to have a good understanding of what you’re getting from Medicare Parts A and B. That will help you work out which option suits you best. From there you can assess your two options.

Can I get a better Medicare policy for less by dealing directly with an insurance company?

No. Whether you choose a Supplement or an Advantage plan, the price and the benefits are the same. A particular Medicare Supplement costs the same whether you use Senior Plan Advisors or go directly to the insurance company. What your independent advisor adds is guidance through the process and awareness of the best combination of coverage and pricing available in your area — plus customer service that goes through us from then on, rather than a toll-free number and someone you’ve never met.

Must I pay a fee to Senior Plan Advisors?

No. Senior Plan Advisors is paid a commission by whichever health insurance company you choose. No additional fees are added to your premium. Working with an advisor will likely save you money, thanks to awareness of the most competitive rates in your area — but more valuable still is the service your advisor provides later, when headaches and problems come up. You have the option to rely on us to handle any issues that arise.

Last reviewed: August 2026