FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
Do I Have to Pay for Your Services?
No. Our services are completely free.
We are compensated by the insurance plans we represent, and this compensation does not impact the premium you pay. All compensation is regulated by CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) to ensure transparency and eliminate bias.
Who Do We Help?
We help individuals who are:
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Turning 65 and becoming Medicare eligible
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Working past 65 and evaluating their coverage options
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Currently enrolled in Medicare and reviewing their plans
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Experiencing a major life event or change, such as retirement or relocation
Where Do We Help?
Real Nurse Consultants is based in Metro Atlanta, with a primary focus on the following counties:
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Fulton
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DeKalb
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Cobb
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Douglas
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Henry
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Fayette
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Clayton
We are also licensed to serve clients in several states, including:
New York, Texas, Tennessee, Arizona, Virginia, Ohio, North Carolina, South Carolina, and New Mexico.
Who Are We?
Real Nurse Consultants is a firm that specializes in Medicare planning and education.
By focusing exclusively on Medicare, we provide clients with detailed knowledge and guidance to help them understand their benefits and choose plans that best support their healthcare needs.
Understanding Medicare Basics
When Should I Start Planning for Medicare?
It is best to begin planning at least six months before turning 65. Early planning helps you understand your options, avoid late enrollment penalties, and ensure your coverage begins on time.
When Can I Enroll in Medicare?
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Your Initial Enrollment Period lasts 7 months and includes:
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3 months before your 65th birthday
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The month of your birthday
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3 months after your birthday month
Annual Election Period (October 15 – December 7)
During this time, you can review and change your Medicare plans. Any changes made will take effect on January 1 of the following year.
Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31)
This period allows individuals enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan to switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare.
Special Election Period (SEP)
Special Election Periods occur when certain life events happen, such as:
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Moving to a new area
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Retiring or losing employer coverage
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Becoming eligible for Medicaid
There are additional situations that may qualify you for an SEP. Speaking with a licensed Medicare advisor can help determine your eligibility.
What Is the Difference Between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?
Original Medicare includes:
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Part A (Hospital Insurance)
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Part B (Medical Insurance)
Original Medicare does not include coverage for prescription drugs, dental, vision, or hearing.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans combine:
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Part A
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Part B
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Often Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)
Many Medicare Advantage plans also include additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs.
How Do I Sign Up for Medicare?
If you are already receiving Social Security benefits at least 4 months before your 65th birthday, you will typically be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B.
If you are not receiving Social Security benefits, you will need to enroll in Medicare about 3 months before turning 65.
You can enroll by:
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Calling Social Security
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Visiting ssa.gov and enrolling online
