Prepare Yourself.

Now that the season of unwrapping gifts is behind us, it’s time to unpack the details of your health insurance plan. If your plan is new for 2025, understanding how the details could impact you and your family both personally and financially is an important part of being prepared. Does your plan include a high deductible? Has the co-pay portion increased? Are your doctors still in network? Have the costs of your prescriptions gone up? Does your plan include dental and vision coverage? Because nearly all health insurance plans include out-of-pocket expenses that must be paid, these are important details to understand before facing a medical event. The point at which your out-of-pocket expenses end and insurance coverage begins can vary. If this threshold is significant for you, it might be beneficial to consider supplemental coverage. Gap coverage is designed to address expenses that insurance does not pay, and benefits are not based on what other coverages, like health insurance, do pay. Coverage can range from accidents and illness to accidental death and hospital stays. The goal with gap coverage is to reduce the amount you pay out of pocket. As an independent licensed insurance agent, I have more time to sit down with you and dig deep into the details of your insurance coverage. I can help you identify products for your individual situation to help with potential out-of-pocket expenses. And the best part is, my guidance is free of charge. I look forward to hearing from you soon. HealthMarkets Insurance Agency is located at 9551 Vista Way in Garfield Hts. To reach Scott McEvoy or a member of his team, call 216-815-1850 . Virtual, phone and office appointments are available. HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, Inc. is licensed as an insurance agency nationwide except in MA. Not all agents are licensed to sell all products. Service and product availability may vary by state. Agents may be compensated based on enrollment. No obligation to enroll. 51859-HM-0125

Open enrollment for ACA marketplace plans began on Friday, November 1, and runs until Wednesday, January 15, 2025. I offer anyone interested the opportunity to sit down with me or a member of my team to review the available options, then help them make the selections that make the most sense for them and their families. In 2025, the ACA will offer premium tax credits, expanding financial assistance to a wider range of income levels. This adjustment will help to reduce premiums for a larger number of people, making health insurance more affordable.1 Additionally, new updates include caps on out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles and co-pays.2 The ACA will also include provisions for lower co-pays on medications and expanded access to specialized care for chronic conditions.3 Additional support for low-income families includes increased premium tax credits and improved access to affordable care options.4 Eligibility for benefits and programs generally depends on several factors, including income, citizenship and specific health needs. Some people will qualify for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions for health insurance purchased through the ACA Marketplace.5 Give me a call to review your options, and, as always, my guidance is free of charge. HealthMarkets Insurance Agency is located at 9551 Vista Way in Garfield Hts. To reach Scott McEvoy or a member of his team, call 216-815-1850. Virtual, phone and office appointments are available. *Source: HealthInsurance.org1, Healthcare.gov2, whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/3, HHS.gov4 , kff.org/health-policy-101-the-affordable-care-act/5. HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, Inc. is licensed as an insurance agency nationwide except in MA. Not all agents are licensed to sell all products. Service and product availability may vary by state. Agents may be compensated based on enrollment. No obligation to enroll. 51731-HM-1024

Every year, many hardworking Americans are faced with the challenges of navigating their personal healthcare needs, without the benefit of an employer-sponsored plan. That’s why the Affordable Care Act (ACA) offers a beacon of hope. But it can be overwhelming to understand all the policies and provisions that evolve each year. That’s why it may be prudent to work with a licensed insurance agent like Scott McEvoy, with HealthMarkets Insurance Agency. Scott offers anyone interested the opportunity to sit down with him or a member of his team to review the available options, then help them make the selections that make the most sense for them and their families. “Plan details and availability change every year, so what was available to you last year may not be the same this year,” he notes. Open enrollment for the ACA plans begins on Friday, November 1, and runs until Wednesday, January 15, 2025. Key Updates for 2025 The ACA will offer more generous advanced premium tax credits, expanding financial assistance to a wider range of income levels. This adjustment will help to reduce premiums for a larger number of people, making health insurance more affordable. 1 Additionally, new updates include caps on out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles and co-pays. 2 “The goal is to ease the financial burden of medical expenses,” Scott notes. The ACA will also include provisions for lower co-pays on medications and expanded access to specialized care for chronic conditions. 3 Additional support for low-income families includes enhanced premium tax credits and improved access to affordable care options. 4 Are You Eligible? The ACA has had a significant impact on health care in the U.S. By 2016, the law had helped reduce the uninsured rate to a historic low. More than 20 million Americans gained insurance through the expansion of Medicaid, subsidies and marketplace plans. 5 Protections for pre-existing conditions and essential health benefits have become widely popular. “The ACA provides health insurance coverage for a broad range of individuals and families,” Scott explains. “Eligibility for benefits and programs generally depends on several factors, including income, citizenship and specific health needs. Some people will qualify for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions for health insurance purchased through the ACA Marketplace. 5 ” One important feature of ACA plans is that they must cover pre-existing conditions. This applies to all individuals seeking coverage through the ACA Marketplace, regardless of their health history. 6 “It’s important to note that everyone who participates in ACA plans is free to make their own choices,” says Scott. “They can opt to go it alone, making their selection for the coming year, or they can tap into the knowledge base of someone like me who has spent part of the year reviewing the changes for 2025.” Scott suggests calling his office to make an easy, informative appointment to meet with him. “That’s where many of my clients like to begin,” he suggests. “It can be overwhelming to sift through the options available to you. But when you schedule a time to meet with me or someone on my team, we can help you sort through the options. I'll provide you with information about important changes and the options available to you to help you find a plan that best suits your needs. Some people may understand the changes that apply to them and others may need help understanding plan changes, so I believe it's best to meet with a licensed insurance agent.” HealthMarkets Insurance Agency is located at 9551 Vista Way in Garfield Hts. To reach Scott McEvoy or a member of his team, call 216-815-1850. Virtual, phone and office appointments are available. *Source: kff.org/policy-watch/five-things-to-know-about-renewal-of-extra-affordable-care-act-subsidies-in-inflation-reduction-act/ 1, hhs.gov/about/news/2024/07/16/biden-harris-administration-releases-final-part-two-guidance-help-people-medicare-prescription-drug-coverage-manage-prescription-drug-costs.html 2, cbpp.org/research/health/entering-their-second-decade-affordable-care-act-coverage-expansions-have-helped 3&4, HHS.gov5&6.  HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, Inc. is licensed as an insurance agency nationwide except in MA. Not all agents are licensed to sell all products. Service and product availability may vary by state. Agents may be compensated based on enrollment. No obligation to enroll. 51654-HM-1124

One of the biggest changes to Medicare Part D in years is happening in 2025

If you’re on Medicare, the best word to describe your status in September might have been, “bombarded.” You probably received a huge influx of telephone calls, mail and email about your Medicare options for the Annual Election Period, happening Friday, October 15 until Tuesday, December 7. Turn on the television and your favorite and not-so-favorite former football players are there, smiling and encouraging you to call the number on your screen. It can be overwhelming. “I get calls from people all of the time confused about what to do or telling me they responded to a solicitation and ended up in a Medicare plan they know nothing about,” says Scott McEvoy, a licensed insurance agent with HealthMarkets Insurance Agency. “It can be a challenge to not only understand the options available to you, but also feel confident about the choice you make.” Everyone on Medicare either continues with their current plan into the next election period or makes the switch to a plan that better meets their changing needs. And if you’re a new 65 or you’ll be turning 65 in the next three months, you’ll be choosing a Medicare plan for the first time. Wherever you fall on the Medicare spectrum, you may be feeling unsure about which plan is best for you. “No two people have identical situations,” Scott states. “You have your own health concerns, doctors you prefer, medications you take and extras you need that are specific to you. So, your Medicare plan choice will likely be different than that of, say, your neighbor or spouse.” In Your Corner Scott is here for you, ready to meet with you to discuss your individual situation. “I’m here every day, all day, often in the evenings and on weekends to answer questions. And there’s no charge for my guidance,” he says. “My focus is on getting to know you personally. I want to get as much information as possible about you so that when I present your Medicare options to you, you’ll feel confident that you’re making an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.” “It’s not a requirement to meet with me, but why wouldn’t you take advantage of the free guidance?” Scott asks. “I’m a local agent who spends hours reviewing all of the changes to Medicare plans. I also get licensed each year. So, instead of having to dig through a pile of information trying to decide if your plan has changed for the better or worse, or if there is another plan out there that might be better suited to your current situation, you can sit down with me and have that answer in about 30 minutes or less. This could be one of the smartest half-hour investments you’ll ever make.” Scott cuts through the clutter and confusion and provides sound guidance. He says that for him, it’s about helping people choose what they need, not selling anything. The Competition is Fierce Medicare plan providers want your business. It’s that simple. “I’m seeing plans with more benefits added,” Scott shares. “It makes sense to review your options to find out if you could be getting more in your Medicare plan, without paying more.” Every year there are carrier changes, whether new Medicare providers enter the market or existing carriers change their plans. So, the plan you had last year could be different this year, or a different plan may be of benefit. “People don’t like to leave their comfort zone,” Scott relates. “But Medicare is one area where making a change could be the right option. A review can reveal a lot.” His Guidance is Free Because HealthMarkets agents aren’t captive, meaning they don’t work for a particular insurance carrier, they direct their efforts toward clients, helping them navigate the sometimes-baffling waters of Medicare. And the cost for a one-on-one review and his guidance? Nothing. All time spent with Scott or a member of his team is absolutely free, whether you contact him during open enrollment or you have questions that need to be answered once your plan has been selected. Meet Scott Scott chuckles when he mentions that he’s instructed all five of his children to live in warm climates so that he and his wife of 13 years, Cathy Kruza-McEvoy, can visit them during the chillier Northeast Ohio months. “Coconuts earn them bonus points,” he laughs. When Cathy isn’t serving the needs of residents in Medina County as a public service nurse, Scott says they both like to be near or in the water. HealthMarkets is located at 9551 Vista Way in Garfield Heights. Hours are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m., evenings and weekends by appointment. To reach Scott McEvoy or a member of his team, call 216-815-1850 . Virtual, phone and office appointments are available.

Most people understand life insurance to be a financial tool that helps their loved ones when they pass away, providing needed funds for bills, college and more. What they may not realize is that life insurance can also be a vital resource to help support the policy holder while he or she is still alive. By choosing a policy with a living benefit rider, you can help to protect the assets you’ve worked so hard to accumulate. This rider can provide early access to your life insurance policy’s death benefit when you have a qualifying condition and can be used to preserve your quality of life. It may not cost extra to choose a policy with this provision. According to a 2019 study from the American Journal of Public Health, medical costs are a leading cause of bankruptcy. With a living benefit rider on your life insurance policy, three important coverage areas can provide early access to life insurance funds. A living benefit rider may allow you to access up to a certain percentage of benefits should you be diagnosed with a covered illness or health condition. There are different types of living benefit riders that could cover various types of conditions and allow you to tailor the coverage around your needs. January is a perfect time to do a policy review to ensure the coverage you have is the coverage that can meet your needs today, tomorrow and into the future. The best part is, sitting down with me to discuss your options doesn’t cost a thing. I look forward to hearing from you. To reach Scott McEvoy or a member of his team, call 216-815-1850. Virtual, phone and office appointments are available. 

No one is immune from the risk of cancer, young or old. However, age does play a role, with the average age of people diagnosed with cancer being 66.* Are you prepared if the unthinkable should happen? Fortunately, I can help you find a supplemental plan that may help with out of pocket costs if you receive a qualified cancer diagnosis. You may also be able to get a cancer policy for your kids if you get one for yourself. I can help you find and review options. You may be surprised to learn that supplemental cancer insurance can fit your budget. Many people know someone who has or has had cancer, which is why supplemental cancer coverage can help you prepare for the unexpected. Individuals may experience financial hardship due to unexpected costs that insurance may not cover. Recovering from a major illness can mean missed work and being without a paycheck. Supplemental insurance can help by paying a lump sum cash benefit for a qualified diagnosis. Finding out if you qualify won’t cost you a dime. Give me a call to schedule your personal appointment. HealthMarkets Insurance Agency is located at 9551 Vista Way in Garfield Hts. To reach Scott McEvoy or a member of his team, call 216-815-1850 . Virtual, phone and office appointments are available. *Source: National Cancer Institute, Seer.Cancer.gov/statfacts , 1/21/2024. 

If you were in high school in 1977, you are likely approaching age 65, which is when you will begin making decisions regarding your Medicare options. To learn more about your options, give me a call to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation educational meeting. In the meantime, enjoy recalling these memories from March 1977: Top 5 Singles – March 12, 1977 #1 “Love Theme from ‘A Star is Born’ (Evergreen)” – Barbra Streisand #2 “Fly Like an Eagle” – The Steve Miller Band #3 “I Like Dreamin’” – Kenny Nolan #4 “Night Moves” – Bob Seger #5 “Blinded by the Light” – Manfred Mann’s Earth Band Top-Grossing Movie Week of March 16 “Rocky” March 1977 Events • Boston comedy club owner Jay Leno made his national television debut as a stand-up comedian, appearing on “The “Tonight Show.” • The debut album for the rock band Foreigner was released by Atlantic Records simultaneously with the band’s first single, “Feels Like the First Time.” • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it was banning saccharin. • “Ask President Carter,” the first and only radio show allowing ordinary residents across the U.S. to call the President of the United States, was broadcast live on the CBS Radio Network. With anchorman Walter Cronkite serving as moderator, President Jimmy Carter spoke with 42 people who had been able to get through to the White House after calling a special “900” number. • Two American astronomers, J. L. Elliot of Cornell University and Robert Millis of the Lowell Observatory, discovered that the planet Uranus, like Saturn, has rings. • Lobbied by singer and orange juice spokesperson Anita Bryant, the County Commission of Dade County, Florida, voted 6 to 3 to authorize a special referendum on whether to reverse a county ordinance that had been enacted in January against discrimination based on sexual orientation. • Former U.S. president Richard Nixon granted his first interviews since his 1974 resignation, with journalist David Frost conducting unlimited questioning. • The final episode of the NBC TV situation comedy “Sanford and Son” was aired after six seasons and 136 episodes. • Architect Ernő Rubik of Hungary received Hungarian patent No. 170,062 for his invention, a “spatial logic game” which would later be marketed as “Rubik’s Cube.” —Source: Wikipedia To schedule a no-cost, no-obligation educational meeting to discuss your Medicare options, call Scott McEvoy, Licensed Insurance Agent, at 216-815-1850 or email him at Scott.McEvoy@HealthMarkets.com . Consultation at no cost to you.