In 2021, Medicare spent $2.6 billion on Ozempic, making it one of the top 10 drugs that Medicare spends the most on (AARP).

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic, known as semaglutide, is purposed to control blood sugar levels with type 2 diabetes. It is injectable and has weight loss effects due to the activation of insulin. It is Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for those with type 2 diabetes, but not weight loss.

Eligibility and Pricing:

According to Good Rx, an American Healthcare Company that tracks prescription drug prices, 93% of Medicare prescription drug plans cover Ozempic under the condition that those eligible have type 2 diabetes.3

(The payments for the drug cost will vary based on the plan)

4 Without...

Medicare Advantage has been rising in popularity in recent years. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, in 2024, 33.8 million enrollees constitute Medicare Advantage. Medicare Advantage has taken more than half a share of the Medicare Marketplace, making up for over 50% of Medicare plans. The May Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that the plans will make up 62% of all Medicare plans in 2033.

It comes as no surprise that big healthcare providers such as UnitedHealthcare and Humana have seen tremendous growth in beneficiaries that use these types of plans nationwide.

However, there are many questions concerning whether the current benefits will continue in the future with the growing demand from consumers and providers valuing their profit...

Introduction:

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and 2024 marks a significant milestone in the transformation of Medicare Part D in response to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. This act, lowered drug costs and reduced federal spending, allowing accessible and cost-effective healthcare experiences for millions of Americans.

Changes for 2024:

One of the most notable changes coming in 2024 is the costs associated with the catastrophic phase in Medicare Part D. Enrollees without low-income subsidies, facing high spending, will now benefit from a capped limit. In 2024, this cap is set at $8,000, covering both out-of-pocket expenses and the value of the manufacturer price discount on brand-name drugs in the coverage gap...

In the evolving landscape of healthcare policies, particularly in California, there have been significant recent changes in Medi-Cal eligibility, in regards to immigration status. These changes aim to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in healthcare, ensuring that a wider demographic can benefit from the benefits of full-scope Medi-Cal coverage.

According to Covered California, under the Affordable Care Act, most immigrants qualify for health coverage, including green card holders, temporary residents, refugees, those with temporary protected status, and working or student visas. These new laws present an opportunity for both lawfully and unlawfully present individuals who apply through Covered California for eligibility for a health plan.

One noteworthy development is...

2024 is here, and it is time for you to get out of life what you deserve. There are many ways to stay motivated to achieve your goals. Health plays a pivotal role in motivation and is a driving force in all areas of life. Here are some healthy ways to stay motivated for 2024!

Practice Positivity and Gratitude

1). Psychologists have indicated that expressing gratitude regularly can improve your quality of sleep and reduce feelings and anxiety and depression.

2). Using positive language correlates to better moods and less fatigue and inflammation.

Create a routine

1). Create daily tasks that focus on your health and that are repeatable. Brushing your teeth, showering, shaving, or getting ready for the following day of work...

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As we grow older, our health becomes even more important. With the rising costs of medical care, it’s essential to have the right insurance coverage to protect your health and finances. That’s where supplemental health insurance comes in, specifically Santa Barbara Supplemental Plans, also known as Medi Gap. Stevens & Associates Insurance Agency wants to help you understand Medicare Supplemental Insurance, so today, we’ll go over what it is and how it can help you.

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When you’re working to find insurance coverage for yourself and your family, you have a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you’re used to working directly with large insurance providers or you’re experienced in working with an insurance agency, Stevens & Associates Insurance Agency is your top choice for finding great coverage options! Here are four benefits our clients enjoy when they work with us.

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Medicare is a federal health insurance program that insures individuals over the age of 65. It is also available to certain individuals who are under the age of 65 and meet other qualifications. However, it is important to understand there are different parts to Medicare plans that you should be aware of.

At Stevens & Associates Insurance Agency, Inc., we want to make sure our customers in Santa Barbara, CA, understand how Medicare insures individuals and the differences between Part A and Part B. Keep reading to get more information!

At Stevens and Associates Insurance Agency, Inc, we care about each individual we work with, and if you need assistance with your insurance options, you can turn to us to provide what you need. Read below to learn a bit more about our policies and other programs. We are committed to our customers, and we work tirelessly to ensure you are taken care of. Contact us today!

Welcome to Stevens and Associates Insurance Agency, Inc! As a full concierge insurance ageny, you can trust us to handle your health insurance needs, and we have more than 65 years of experience for your peace of mind. This blog explores what you should know about Medicare Plan D, and we encourage you to read below to learn more about your options. Contact us today!