Special Needs Living Indy January 2024 Digital Issue

Page 17

Are You Eligible?

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elaine Thomas and her husband, Brian, own Thomas Insurance Agency. They enjoy helping those who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid, or who are already on Medicare and Medicaid, to find the plan that best fits their needs and receive extra benefits. Many people have told Delaine “I don’t qualify for Medicare because I am not 65 yet.” “That simply is not true,” Delaine said. “If you’ve been on social security disability income (SSDI) for two years, then you’re eligible for Medicare, regardless of age. These additional benefits are federally funded, not state-funded. And, if you’re fully qualified at the highest level, then you can get a debit card that has money for groceries and over-the-counter items. Some plans offer utility benefits as well. Other benefits include dental, hearing, and vision services and some of the plans cover a gym membership and a personal emergency response system at no cost.” “Recently I was able to help a young adult who didn’t realize that he was eligible for benefits with Medicare,” Delaine shared. “This young man’s aunt met with me to discuss his eligibility and the plans that would be best for him. They were super excited. Even though he is disabled he can live by himself in his own apartment, but his utility bill can be quite expensive in the winter. With his new plan, he will receive money to put toward his utility bill, in addition to money for healthy groceries and over-the-counter products.” Delaine loves working with anyone to figure out if they’re qualified for Medicare and Medicaid, and especially added benefits like hearing, vision, dental, and more. “There are so many people out there that don’t realize all the benefits that they could be eligible for. These added benefits were designed for you, and I want to get the word out, informing people so that they’re aware of their options.” Delaine has to complete annual training that is required by the federal government to ensure that she is in compliance with the latest regulations and policies. To help you find the best Medicare Advantage plan for your specific needs Delaine can check to make sure your doctors and prescription medications are covered and determine your needs with regard to transportation, utility payments, over-the-counter products, and healthy grocery purchases. “It is always my goal to take care of your needs and to make sure that you fully understand the plan that you have,” she noted.

“Being able to help others is the most fulfilling part of my job,” Delaine said. “Many people, especially those on Medicare and Medicaid, don’t realize that there are plans available to them, but when they find that out, they are so grateful for the help. They know that they can reach out to me anytime and I will be there to help walk them through their questions.” “For me,” she added, “it’s all about building relationships with each person so that they know I will listen to their concerns. Even when I can’t help, I can point them in the right direction to get the help they need. If I can do that, then I have had a good day.” If you are wondering if you or someone that you love is eligible for additional benefits, feel free to contact Delaine at delaineth@hotmail.com.

TIA

If you have these cards you might be eligible for extra benefits.

CALL ME TODAY.

Delaine Thomas 812-318-5197 Special Needs Living Indy

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