If you have any questions about your benefit plans, please don't hesitate to or call Kristen Garry at 267.794.3010.

To learn more about Gallagher Benefit Services visit tccgroup.com.

To learn more about the Cultural Alliance visit philaculture.org

Medicare Supplement Plans FAQ

Q. What options are available to me when I turn 65?

A. Since traditional Medicare does not pay all of your health care costs, Independence Blue Cross offers a variety of plans that provide more comprehensive coverage. Keystone 65 and Personal Choice 65 are both Medicare Advantage plans that combine the benefits of traditional Medicare and a Medicare supplement. Additionally, Security 65 supplements Medicare with the features of a traditional fee-for-service plan.

Q. Are prescription drugs covered by these Medicare Advantage Plans or must I enroll in Medicare Part D separately?

A. Some of the Keystone 65 and Personal Choice 65 plans do provide coverage for prescription drugs. If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan with prescription drug coverage you can not enroll in Medicare Part D. The Security 65 plans do not cover prescription drugs so you would have to enroll in Medicare Part D separately.

Q. Do I have to enroll in Medicare Part B when I am eligible even if I am still employed and choose to stay on my employer's medical plan?

A. You should enroll in Medicare Part B when you become eligible for it because Medicare may be the primary payor for your medical insurance. If Medicare is the primary payor, and you are not enrolled in Medicare Part B, Independence Blue Cross can deny claims that Medicare is responsible for paying.

Q. Must I enroll in Medicare Parts A & B in order to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Medigap policy?

A. Yes. Independence Blue Cross requires that you are eligible for Medicare Part A and enrolled in Medicare Part B before enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan or Medigap policy.

Q. When should I sign up for a Medicare Supplement Plan?

A. Because the application process can take up to 45 days (or longer) to complete, we recommend beginning the process at least 60 days prior to your requested effective date.

Since you will need to enroll in Medicare Parts A & B, the Social Security Administration recommends that you sign up for Medicare about 3 months prior to being eligible.

Q. How do I sign up for a Medicare Advantage Plan?

A. Contact Kristen Garry at 267.794.3010 or e-mail at Gallagher Benefit Services to request an information packet. All applications must include the applicant's original signature — no copies will be accepted by Independence Blue Cross.