Explore your options
Compare options, including Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, and prescription plans.
Find a Licensed Medicare agent in Iowa
Connect with Medicare agents in Iowa
Toni Aldridge
Kevin Hatfield
Shannon Davis
Tyler Eby
Kayla Torry
Brandon Kauffman
Calvin Fritz
Sara Morrissey
Matt Willenborg
Ariel De Jesus
Why work with a Medicare agent
Enroll in Medicare
Get the help you need to enroll in Medicare, from Original Medicare to supplemental coverage.
Use your coverage
Receive extended support to help you use your plan effectively, find doctors, and get savings.
A Snapshot of Medicare in Iowa
Original Medicare is the more popular coverage choice for eligible Iowans. Among those on Medicare in Iowa, 63% are on Original Medicare. The other 37% are on a Medicare Advantage plan.
Prescription drug coverage for Original Medicare enrollees is available in the form of standalone Part D prescription plans. Medicare Advantage enrollees often receive prescription drug coverage as part of their plan—if not, they may also enroll in a separate Part D plan.
Because Original Medicare only covers about 80% of the cost of covered services and does not put a limit on out-of-pocket costs, many people on Original Medicare choose to also get a Medicare Supplement plan. Medicare Supplement plans (also called Medigap plans) significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs, giving beneficiaries peace of mind and limiting their financial risk.
Some people choose Medicare Advantage plans because they limit out-of-pocket costs, often provide prescription drug coverage, and can provide additional benefits, like dental and vision coverage and OTC benefits. These plans also have their downsides though. The two primary disadvantages of Medicare Advantage plans are provider networks and prior authorization requirements—both of which can limit your access to care.
Medicare provides beneficiaries with a variety of preventative services to help them detect illnesses early and stay healthy. It covers services like wellness visits, cancer screenings, and certain vaccinations. Enrollees can also discuss preventive services during a "Welcome to Medicare" visit, which is covered within their first 12 months of Part B enrollment.
How to apply for Medicare in Iowa?
Medicare eligibility in Iowa follows the same nationwide rules as everywhere else in the country. You qualify for Medicare as a US citizen if you meet one of these criteria:
- You're 65 or older
- You have a qualifying disability, such as End-Stage Renal Disease or ALS
- You've received SSDI for 24 months or more
Enrolling in Iowa takes three key steps:
- Sign up for Original Medicare (Part A and Part B)
- Decide on your supplemental coverage:
- Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
- Medicare Advantage (Part C)
- Part D (prescription drug coverage)
- Confirm your doctors are in network, update your pharmacy with your new plan, and activate any additional benefits included with your coverage
FAQs
What should I look for in a Medicare agent in Iowa?
Iowans should always look for an independent Medicare agent in Iowa who will look at every option and provide unbiased guidance. Chapter's licensed Medicare agents offer free advice and support to help you choose the right coverage for your health and financial needs. Contact Chapter at (855) 900-2427 with any questions or schedule a free consultation.
How can living in rural Iowa affect Medicare Advantage network access?
Rural Iowa residents may have fewer nearby healthcare providers, meaning some Medicare Advantage plans could require them to travel farther for in-network care. Rural residents should check whether their preferred providers and facilities are in a Medicare Advantage plan's network before signing up. They should also check how far they may need to travel to see specialists who participate in the plan's network.
What should I check before switching Medicare coverage in Iowa?
If you're an Iowan considering a change to your Medicare coverage, check whether your preferred doctors and hospitals, pharmacies, and prescriptions will be covered under the new coverage you're considering. Compare out-of-pocket costs, including premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Residents should also confirm that they're making the change during an eligible enrollment period.
Does Medicare cover long-term care in Iowa?
In general, Medicare doesn't cover long-term care like help with bathing, dressing, or eating, either at home or in a skilled nursing facility. It may cover some short-term home health or skilled nursing care in certain situations. Iowans who need long-term care can pay out of pocket, explore long-term care insurance, or apply for Medicaid if eligible.
