What Caregivers Need to Know
Medicare Decisions Are Often Made by Family
Medicare decisions are often made by family members, not just the beneficiary. You’re not overstepping — you’re helping.
You Can Be Involved Without Legal Authorization
You can attend appointments, ask questions, and help compare plans alongside your parent. No paperwork required for this.
Acting on Their Behalf Requires Authorization
To make decisions ON BEHALF of your parent, you need legal authorization — either an Appointment of Representative form or Power of Attorney.
Our Team Works with Caregivers Regularly
Our team regularly works with caregivers — you can call together, or you can call first to understand the options before involving your parent.
Your Legal Options
Authorized Representative
Complete CMS form CMS-20031 (Appointment of Representative). Allows you to act on your parent’s behalf for Medicare matters.
Power of Attorney (POA)
A legal document granting you authority to make decisions. Must be recognized in Ohio and presented to Medicare/insurers.
Informal Support
You can help your parent understand options, gather information, and be present during calls — no legal authorization required for this. Our team can speak with you and your parent together.
Key Decisions You’ll Help With
Plan Type
Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage — the most fundamental choice. We explain both clearly before recommending anything.
Drug Coverage
Making sure your parent’s medications are covered at the lowest cost. We compare every formulary available in their area.
Enrollment Timing
Understanding deadlines, avoiding late enrollment penalties. Missing them means paying more every month — permanently.
Annual Reviews
Plans change every year — reviewing before each Annual Enrollment Period is critical. Our team handles this proactively.
How to Prepare for a Call with Our Team
Your Checklist
- Your parent’s current insurance cards (Medicare card, any supplemental coverage)
- A list of current medications with dosages
- Names of preferred doctors and hospitals
- Any upcoming medical procedures or concerns
- Your parent’s income range (for IRMAA and Extra Help eligibility)
- Whether your parent has both Medicare and Medicaid (dual-eligible status)
Questions About Helping a Parent with Medicare
Can I make Medicare decisions for my parent?
You can help your parent understand their options and be present during calls. To formally act on their behalf, you’ll need to complete a CMS Appointment of Representative form (CMS-20031) or hold Power of Attorney.
Can our team talk to me without my parent present?
Our team can explain Medicare options to you generally. However, to discuss your parent’s specific plan details or make changes to their coverage, your parent must be present on the call or you must have legal authorization.
My parent is overwhelmed. How do you make this easier?
Our team works with families regularly. We explain everything in plain language, never rush, and follow up with a written summary. Many families start with a phone call where we walk through the basics before any decisions are made.
What if my parent has both Medicare and Medicaid?
Your parent may qualify for Ohio’s MyCare program, which combines both into one managed care plan with extra benefits. Our team can evaluate their eligibility and help them choose the right MyCare plan.
Does it cost anything for my parent to get help?
No. Our guidance is free. Independent brokers are compensated by insurance carriers if your parent enrolls in a plan. There is no cost for consultations or annual reviews.
My parent lives in another city in Ohio. Can you still help?
Yes. We serve all of Ohio by phone. Your parent doesn’t need to come to the office — everything can be handled remotely.