Welcome to Tips & Tricks Thursday on Real Easy Medicare with Al Kushner! In this rapid-fire episode, Al shares practical shortcuts and insider hacks to streamline your Medicare experience and avoid common hassles.

1. Research Efficiency
   • Enter all medications into Medicare Plan Finder for accurate cost comparisons
   • Call provider offices directly to confirm current plan participation
2. Money-Saving Moves
   • Use mail-order for 90-day Part D supplies to get 3 months for the price of 2
   • Apply for Extra Help online at SSA.gov if income limits qualify
3. Navigation Shortcuts
   • Call 1-800-MEDICARE early or late for shorter hold times
   • Find unbiased guidance through your state’s SHIP counseling program
4. Enrollment & Coverage Tricks
   • Trigger SEPs by moving ZIP codes to escape unwanted MA or Part D plans
   • Leverage 12-month MA trial rights to switch back to Original Medicare
5. Provider & Hospital Tactics
   • Seek emergency care at the nearest hospital—MA plans must cover true emergencies out-of-network
   • Request peer-to-peer reviews on denials for higher approval rates
6. Tech Tools
   • Download the official Medicare app for real-time claims and benefits info
   • Keep an up-to-date medication list on your phone for faster pharmacy and plan reviews
7. Problem Fixes
   • Initiate written redeterminations to start formal appeals on denied claims
   • Identify qualifying events for SEPs if you make a regrettable plan choice

Next Episode Preview: Fast Friday Q&A—send your Medicare questions for rapid, expert answers in a dedicated Q&A format.