Medicare Help for Long Beach Island Residents

I'm Tom Holowchuk, an independent Medicare broker based just over the causeway in Manahawkin. I help LBI residents compare the plans I offer, in plain English, at no cost to you.

Year-round or part-time? It changes your choice

If you split your time between LBI and another home, the type of coverage you choose matters a lot.

• Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) generally lets you see any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare. Many people who travel or live in two states like that flexibility.

• Medicare Advantage plans usually work with a local network of doctors and hospitals. Some offer low or no monthly premiums and extra benefits, but care outside the network can cost more or may not be covered except for emergencies.

Neither is "right" for everyone. We'll look at where you spend your time, which doctors you see in each place, and what you'd want to happen if you need care away from home.

Your nearest hospital

For most of the island, the closest hospital is Southern Ocean Medical Center on Route 72 in Manahawkin. If you'd want to go there, or to a specialist in Toms River, Philadelphia, or elsewhere, I'll check that your plan includes them before you enroll. If you see doctors off the island, bring their names to our meeting.

Moving to LBI full-time?

If you're making the island your permanent home and your current plan is based in another county or state, your plan may not work well here. A permanent move can give you a Special Enrollment Period to pick new coverage. Call me soon after you move so there's no gap in your coverage.

What we'll cover in a free review

1. Your doctors, on and off the island

2. Your prescriptions and the pharmacy you use

3. How you split your time during the year

4. Your monthly budget and how much risk you're comfortable with

5. Extras people often ask about, like dental coverage or a hospital indemnity plan

Then I show you the options side by side. If your current plan is still the best fit, I'll tell you that.

After you enroll

I don't disappear. Every fall during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7), plans change their costs and drug lists. I review your plan against what's new for the coming year, at no charge, and let you know if a change makes sense.

Frequently asked questions

Can you meet with me on the island?

I meet by phone, Zoom, or in person. Call (732) 554-3021 and we'll find what works for you.

I'm only on LBI in the summer. Which plan should I get?

It depends on where you get most of your care. People who live in two places often prefer coverage that works with any doctor who accepts Medicare. We'll go through your doctors in both places before deciding.

Is there a cost for your help?

No. My help costs you nothing.

Can I change plans if I'm unhappy?

Most people can change plans each fall between October 15 and December 7. Moving, losing other coverage, and some other events can open a Special Enrollment Period.

Let's make sure you're covered

Call (732) 554-3021 or book a free consultation.