Volume 11, Issue 7
July 2020


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Our monthly newsletter addresses consumer insurance topics as well as timely information on issues affecting senior citizens in Louisiana.

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To find out if Consumer Advocacy will be in your area or to request a speaker for your organization or group, call (225) 219-0619 or send an email to: consumeradvocacy@ldi.la.gov

FAQ’s: Medicare Supplement Insurance

What are Medigaps?

Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policies are health insurance policies sold by private insurers designed to offer benefits to fill some of the cost sharing coverage gaps in Original Medicare.

Can I buy a Medigap if I have a Medicare Advantage Plan?

No, Medigaps only work with Original Medicare.

What can a Medigap cover?

It can cover outstanding deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. It may also cover health care costs that Medicare does not cover at all, like care received while traveling abroad. 

Does Medigap/Medicare Supplement plans cover my prescriptions?

No. You will need a separate stand-alone Prescription Drug plan. These are federally regulated under Medicare Part D.

Our Senior Health counselors can help find answers to your questions. Call us at 1-800-259-5300.


 

fireworks

Stay Safe This Holiday

Have your grill and fireworks ready? Before you celebrate this Fourth of July, review your homeowners insurance policy. A basic policy covers fires caused by fireworks. However, if fireworks are illegal in your city, your policy won’t protect you. If you get hurt while setting off fireworks on your property, your homeowners insurance- not your health insurance- should cover your injuries.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than any other day. Grills are the leading cause of structure fires. Here are some safety tips:

  • Keep a bucket of water close by.
  • Never relight a dud.
  • Avoid throwing or pointing fireworks at anyone or anything.
  • Cook outdoors in a ventilated area.
  • Place the grill far away from your home or other structures.
  • Never leave a burning fire unattended.

If your standard homeowners policy doesn’t protect against damage from fireworks, an umbrella policy may. Contact your insurance agent or company.


 

summer essentials

Summer Safety Tips

Your Fourth of July fun may include soaking up the sun, but it is important to be mindful of temperatures and symptoms of heat-related illness. Here are a few tips for beating the heat:

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. In high temperatures, you will be sweating more than usual, so increased water intake is key.

Dress for the heat. Wear loose-fitting clothes with natural sweat wicking properties, like cotton. Dress in light colors instead of dark ones, which absorb heat instead of reflecting it.

Stay indoors during extreme heat. Your local weather forecasters will alert you to extreme heat advisories. It is best to stay inside during these times. 

Plan ahead for outdoor activities. Make sure to carry water, sunscreen, sunglasses and hats to stay cool on the go.

Know the signs of heat stroke. Signs include a flushed face, high body temperature, headache, nausea, rapid pulse, dizziness and confusion. Take immediate action if you feel them coming on.

If a heat stroke or heat exhaustion sufferer is refusing water, vomiting or losing consciousness, their condition is getting worse and you should seek emergency medical assistance.

 


 

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Office of Consumer Advocacy
(225) 219-0619 or (800) 259-5300

P.O Box 94214
www.ldi.la.gov

Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9214
consumeradvocacy@ldi.la.gov