Q. How can I help my clients cover their out-of-pocket medical expenses?

A. You can make sure your clients have some type of added protection outside of their Medicare Advantage plan or other health plans by offering them a hospital indemnity plan. Many times individuals have overnight hospital stays that are considered an “observation day” instead of an “inpatient stay.” An observation stay is covered under Original Medicare Part B and may affect the coverage and payment of care after your client leaves the hospital. If your client has a Medicare Advantage plan or other health plans, the costs and coverage may be different.

A hospital indemnity plan also helps to cover co-pays and deductibles. You can offer these plans if your client chooses to speak to you and request this option on the Scope of Appointment form. You could also revisit your Medicare Advantage clients outside of the AEP and be sure all of their out of pocket expenses are protected.

– Answered by: Karen Hendrix, Regional Vice President