October 4, 2025

#90

Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap, Star Ratings, and Prior Authorization Explained with Bob O’Connor

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Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap

It’s Medicare busy season - and smart decisions now can save you thousands.

In this episode, Matt Feret sits down with Bob O’Connor, a 20-year Medicare veteran who once ran one of the nation’s largest Medicare Advantage markets. Together they explain the biggest questions people have during the Annual Election Period (AEP):

  • Should you choose Medicare Advantage or a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan?
  • Do Medicare star ratings actually matter - or are they just marketing?
  • What does it mean that prior authorization is being tested in Original Medicare?
  • What happens if your Medicare Advantage plan is discontinued in 2026?
  • How can you avoid common mistakes with drug formularies, provider networks, and out-of-pocket costs?

This conversation pulls back the curtain on how plans are really designed and gives you a practical framework to compare options. If you or a loved one are turning 65—or reviewing coverage during the Annual Election Period—this episode will help you make confident Medicare choices.

Need personalized help? Visit PrepareforMedicare.com to learn more, or schedule a free consultation at BrickhouseAgency.com. No obligation to enroll.

Listen to the episode on Apple PodcastsSpotify, Deezer, Podcast Addict, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Alexa Flash Briefing, iHeart, Acast or on your favorite podcast platform. You can watch the interview on YouTube here.

Brought to you by Prepare for Medicare – The Insider’s Guide  book series. Sign up for the Prepare for Medicare Newsletter, an exclusive subscription-only newsletter that delivers the inside scoop to help you stay up-to-date with your Medicare insurance coverage, highlight Medicare news you can use, and reminders for important dates throughout the year. When you sign up, you’ll immediately gain access to seven FREE Medicare checklists.

Quotes:

“Star ratings don’t tell the whole story. If a plan is below 4 stars in a market full of 4-plus options, benefits can get squeezed.” – Bob O’Connor

“Millions could lose coverage due to service-area reductions. Doing nothing is the worst option—know your Special Enrollment rights.” – Bob O’Connor

“People often chase extras, but the bigger question is: how stable is this insurer over time?” – Bob O’Connor

#90

Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap, Star Ratings, and Prior Authorization Explained with Bob O’Connor

Selected Link from the Episode:

All Things Medicare: PrepareforMedicare.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-t-oconnor

Full Show Transcript:

Matt Feret is the host of The Matt Feret Show, which focuses on the health, wealth and wellness of retirees, people over fifty-five and caregivers helping loved ones. He’s also the author of the book series, Prepare for Medicare – The Insider’s Guide to Buying Medicare Insurance and Prepare for Social Security – The Insider’s Guide to Maximizing Your Retirement Benefits.

For up-to-date Medicare information, visit:
www.prepareformedicare.com

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