Frequently Asked Questions

Who are Senior Services of Illinois

Founded in 2011, Senior Services of Illinois, Inc. (SSI), is an Independent, Authorized, Exclusive General Agent for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois.

What type of Services and products does it provide?

Senior Services of Illinois, Inc. (SSI), is a fully functioning insurance firm that has been providing exemplary customer service and insurance solution options for individuals with specific needs. SSI of Illinois offers expertise in multiple insurance products such as; Individual Health, Medicare Supplement Insurance, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans, and Dental.

Currently, how many Employees does SSI have?

SSI of Illinois has over 30 licensed insurance specialists and customer service staff that are qualified to answer your questions and guide you toward your finding the most appropriate options for you and your loved ones.

What is Individual Health Insurance?

Individual Health insurance is a policy option that an individual or family can apply for should group coverage through an employer not be an option.

What is the difference between individual and group health insurance?

The overall concept of coverage and benefits are relatively the same, however, individuals offered group coverage through an employer or union are guaranteed acceptance regardless of health history and pre-existing conditions and are not subjected to underwriting. Individual health policies subject an applicant to underwriting and health history and pre-existing conditions are taken into consideration and can affect the applicant’s eligibility or insurability.

What is Medicare Supplement Insurance?

Medicare Supplement Insurance is a private health insurance policy designed to help pay some or all of the costs that are not covered by Medicare Parts A and B.

Who is Eligible?

Anyone who is covered under both Medicare parts A and B is eligible for coverage. This includes disabled individuals who are under 65.

Can I be Turned Down?

No, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois are guaranteed issue policies, meaning they will accept you regardless of your health history and cover any pre-existing conditions.

When can I Apply?

You can apply during open enrollment. This period includes a six-month period from the date you enrolled in Part B if age 65 or older, or up to six months after you turn 65 if you were eligible for benefits before age 65. If you become eligible for benefits before age 65 due to disability or ESRD (permanent kidney failure), you are guaranteed the Medicare Supplement Policy of your choice during the first six months you are age 65 and enrolled in Part B.

What if I Change my Mind?

If you apply today, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois will send you an ID card and a policy to review for 30 days. Pay your first premium only after you are convinced the protection is right for you. Even after you send your first payment and your coverage is in effect, you can still change your mind. Simply return your policy and ID card within 30 days of the effective date. As long as you have not filed any claims, you are under no obligation, and any premiums paid will be refunded.

Does Medicare Supplement coverage include Prescription coverage?

No, Medicare Supplement is designed to fill in the “gaps” with Medicare. For prescription drug coverage, you can select a separate Part D Prescription Drug Plan.

Does Everyone Need a Policy?

Not everyone needs a Policy. If you have certain other types of health coverage, the gaps in your coverage may already be covered. You may not need Medicare supplement insurance if:

You belong to a Part C plan

Medicaid or the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program pays your Medicare premiums and other out-of-pocket costs.

You are covered under an employer-group health plan

What if I (my spouse) receive Group Health coverage?

Check with your group plan administrator. You may be able to choose either your group plan or Medicare Plus supplement coverage. If you stay with your group plan, a Special Enrollment Period lets you delay purchasing Part B until you need it.

Can I go to any Hospital or Doctor I choose

You are free to go to any doctor or hospital you choose for care. Your coverage will be recognized across the country. If you are a Med Select member you must go to a participating hospital for all non-emergency admittance.

How does Medicare Select Plan differ from the Standard Plan?

A Medicare Select Plan works just like a standard Medicare Supplement with one difference. With Medicare Select, all scheduled inpatient hospital stays must be at a participating hospital to have coverage for the Part A deductible.

If you do not go to a participating hospital for a scheduled non-emergency hospital stay, you must pay the Part A deductible. For emergency admission, you are covered at any hospital, regardless of whether it is a participating hospital.

To qualify you must live within 30 miles of one of our Med-Select hospitals.

Do Medicare Supplement plans cover prescription drugs?

No. For your prescription needs, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois offer BlueCross MedicareRx^SM

Will I need to Switch Doctors?

No. You may continue to see your own doctor.

Can I see a Specialist whenever I want?

Yes. Just remember that your out-of-pocket costs will be less if you choose a physician who accepts Medicare.