March Special Section
Your Local Broker for Medicare Insurance Needs
Jay Looft Owner/Agent
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Moving soon? Don’t get caught in the “Transition Gap”
to you by –
When you move outside of your plan’s service area (county, group of counties, or possibly the entire state), you will need to check your Medicare Advantage or stand-alone Prescription Drug Plan. Both types of plans might require you to change depending on how far away you move.
Plan ahead with Medicare Advantage plans!
You want to have coverage for healthcare in your current location and as you transition into the new location. Some plans, like HMO plans, only cover you in or around your current location for routine care, and will cover emergencies/urgent care outside of the service area. If you move, and the new plan doesn’t begin until the first of the next month, are you okay having only emergency/urgent care coverage with your current plan until the new plan begins?
Medicare Advantage plans right now offer great networks of doctors, and a lot of extra benefits; but when moving, make sure you don’t fall into
this transition gap of having a doctor network in your current location, but not the new one.
A few tips to setup a smooth plan change when moving:
1. When possible, move near or at the end of the month in order to close the plan transition gap. New plans will typically begin on the first day of the next month, unless you specify otherwise.
2. Set up appointments with doctors in the new location only once you know the effective date of the new plan.
3. Have an ample supply of medication during the plan transition. It can take a week or longer for an application to process into the new plan’s computer system. Don’t get caught needing a prescription refill during this processing time, plan ahead!
We are licensed in most states across the Southeast and many others throughout the United States. We can help with your Medicare Plan change when you move. Give us a call today at (770) 913-6464 or send us a message online at SeniorSourceMedicare.com/ contact-seniorsource.
A return to oral medications?
Brought to you by – Premier Dermatology
From spray sunscreens to creams, ointments, lotions, and foams, dermatologists love the fact that we can often recommend products and treatments that don’t require systemic exposure. When a patient must take a pill or receive an injection, the entire body is exposed, which increases the risk of side effects compared with most topical treatments.
Sometimes, however, a pill is exactly the breakthrough treatment we’ve been waiting for. Many people are unaware of the creative and innovative oral treatments now available to treat skin conditions.
What follows is a brief overview of some of dermatology’s oral medication trends and highlights. Some of these medicines are “offlabel” or are supplements. Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of any of these options with a dermatologist before starting treatment.
We start off with “melasma,” a condition in which an individual’s face develops stubborn dark patches. Traditional topical medications like hydroquinone and azelaic acid are often only partially effective. Increasingly, dermatologists are turning to oral tranexamic acid as an option that can be used alongside or instead of topical medications. Tranexamic acid is a medication originally used to decrease bleeding but was later discovered to also reduce pigmentation in the skin. Because of its anti-bleeding properties, it cannot be taken by patients prone to blood clots or those with an increased risk of clotting. For many people suffering from melasma, however, tranexamic acid can be a game changer.
For those experiencing hair loss, topical minoxidil (Rogaine®) can be frustrating to use. Once- or twicedaily application of a foam or liquid on the scalp can leave hair greasy and create styling challenges. Oral minoxidil is increasingly used as an alternative and is often very effective. In addition, Nutrafol® supplements are commonly used as an adjunct, particularly for patients seeking a more holistic or natural approach to hair loss treatment.
Oral therapies are also gaining attention for preventing skin cancer and reducing sun damage. A form of vitamin B3 called nicotinamide has been shown to reduce rates of certain skin cancers in many patients. Another supplement, polypodium leucotomos (PLE), is an extract from
a tropical fern that reduces sunburns and may help decrease skin cancer development. Its protective effect is modest—likely comparable to an SPF 4 sunscreen for a few hours after ingestion. Therefore, polypodium is intriguing as an addition to traditional sun protection such as sunscreen and protective clothing. Because polypodium acts as an antioxidant and mild sunscreen, it may also help patients with sunsensitivity disorders as well as those with melasma and other disorders of pigmentation.
The list of oral medications continues to grow. For patients with chronic hives (urticaria) the new pill remibrutinib inhibits an enzyme called Bruton’s tyrosine kinase, which plays an important role in the release of histamine from mast cells and basophils. Meanwhile, for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and alopecia areata, oral medications that inhibit enzymes known as Janus kinases (so-called “JAK inhibitors”) have proven extremely effective. Although it is not a new medication, isotretinoin—better known as Accutane®—deserves mention in any discussion of stateof-the-art dermatologic treatments. Isotretinoin has been used for decades to treat severe acne, but concerns about potential links to suicidality and other possible side effects have caused some patients and physicians to hesitate before considering it. In 2023, however, a publication that combined the data of twenty-four prior studies for a grand total of 1,625,891 isotretinoin patients found no increased risk of psychiatric disorders. In fact, the study showed that people who had taken isotretinoin were less likely than the general population to attempt suicide two to four years after treatment. Other concerns such as the importance of not becoming pregnant while taking isotretinoin must be discussed before taking this medication. Still, isotretinoin remains an outstanding and often lifechanging option for people suffering from acne. For isotretinoin, the pill may not be new, but we continue to receive new and repetitively reassuring safety data.
If you or a loved one is dealing with a dermatologic condition—or simply wants to explore treatments to look and feel your best—consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta. Dr. Brent Taylor and Kathryn Filipek, PA-C, are honored to care for patients and families throughout our community.
Insist on the BEST
Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care.
He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables.
Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 23 years experience as a Dermatology PA and cosmetic dermatology.
Her specialties include general dermatology such as acne, eczema, rashes, hair loss, full body skin exams, abnormal growths etc. Kathryn also specializes in cosmetic dermatology including lasers, injectables, micro-needling, PRP, facial peels, sclerotherapy for spider veins and at home skin care.
Kathryn Filipek, PA-C
Importance of skin checks for mature skin
Brought to you by - Dr. Kehinde Olumesi of Epiphany DermatologyBrookhaven
As skin matures, it undergoes various changes that necessitate regular skin checks to ensure overall skin health. Differentiating between age spots, healthy moles and potential skin cancers is crucial. Age spots, often appearing as flat, brown, or black spots on sun-exposed areas, are generally harmless but can be mistaken for more serious conditions. Early detection of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Therefore, routine skin examinations are essential for mature skin to maintain health and catch any issues early.
Addressing skin conditions and rejuvenation procedures
Dermatologists can assist with a variety of skin conditions and rejuvenation procedures for mature skin. Common issues such as dryness, age-related pigmentation and conditions like rosacea, psoriasis and eczema, which can persist or develop with age, are also addressed with specialized care plans.
In addition to treating conditions, dermatologists offer rejuvenating procedures to enhance the appearance and health of mature skin. Treatments such as chemical peels, laser rejuvenation and injectable treatments like BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin texture and promote collagen production. These procedures not only rejuvenate the skin but also boost confidence and overall well-being. Establishing a relationship with a dermatologist ensures that your skin receives comprehensive care tailored to its evolving needs, promoting longterm skin health and vitality.
Ramp essentials
A beginner’s guide to home access ramps
Brought to you by – Mobility Plus Alpharetta
Ramps can be a vital part of your aging-in-place plan. We can help determine the solution that’s right for you!
Aluminum or wooden? Though wood is often considered the traditional material when it comes to mobility ramps, their aluminum counterparts offer many advantages. Unlike wooden ramps, aluminum ramps are weatherproof and will not warp, splinter, or rot. Wooden ramps are also permanent fixtures and require surveying and permitting, while aluminum ramps do not require permits. Lastly, aluminum ramp systems are tangible assets that can be re-sold when no longer needed.
Modular ramp systems: Modular ramp systems are great for allowing access to commonly used entry points like a front or side door where higher elevations or uneven terrain command a longer permanent system. Modular systems can include platforms to create a smooth transition from ramp to ramp. Handrails along the length of the system provide safety for all users. EZ Access Ramps, (made in the USA!) have unique connection points on the handrails that create a seamless, continuous line. Weight capacity for modular systems ranges from 850 lbs. to 1000 lbs. to accommodate both you,
your mobility device and a caregiver.
Ramp length: ADA regulations require a 1:12 ratio. This means that for every inch of rise you need a foot of ramp. For example, if you measure from the ground to the highest point (top of landing, door threshold, etc.) and your measurement is 24,” then you need 24’ of ramp! Residential use allows for some latitude with ADA guidelines, but you should always consult an expert for your ramp project! If your ramp is too short, it could pose a significant safety risk to you or your loved one.
Portable ramp options: Portable ramps are lightweight and easy to carry or load into a car, making them perfect solutions for travel, one-time access, or even in place of a permanent ramp in some instances. Some portable ramps fold in half or thirds while others can be rolled up and stored. Suitcase ramps are hinged in the middle (hence the name) and have a padded carrying handle attached for ease of transport. Threshold ramps are smaller, removable ramp plates or rubberized or metal adjustable wedges that provide a solution for door thresholds. The American-made RollA-Ramp is the third and most unique variety of portable ramp as it rolls up like a sleeping bag! It unrolls at your convenience for relocation or storage. Call Mobility Plus Alpharetta for your free ramp evaluation today! 470545-1827.
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Moving soon? Don’t get caught in the “Transition Gap”
Brought to you by – Senior Source
When you move outside of your plan’s service area (county, group of counties, or possibly the entire state), you will need to check your Medicare Advantage or stand-alone Prescription Drug Plan. Both types of plans might require you to change depending on how far away you move.
Plan ahead with Medicare Advantage plans!
You want to have coverage for healthcare in your current location and as you transition into the new location. Some plans, like HMO plans, only cover you in or around your current location for routine care, and will cover emergencies/urgent care outside of the service area. If you move, and the new plan doesn’t begin until the first of the next month, are you okay having only emergency/urgent care coverage with your current plan until the new plan begins?
Medicare Advantage plans right now offer great networks of doctors, and a lot of extra benefits; but when moving, make sure you don’t fall into this transition gap of having a doctor network in
your current location, but not the new one.
A few tips to setup a smooth plan change when moving:
1. When possible, move near or at the end of the month in order to close the plan transition gap. New plans will typically begin on the first day of the next month, unless you specify otherwise.
2. Set up appointments with doctors in the new location only once you know the effective date of the new plan.
3. Have an ample supply of medication during the plan transition. It can take a week or longer for an application to process into the new plan’s computer system. Don’t get caught needing a prescription refill during this processing time, plan ahead!
We are licensed in most states across the Southeast and many others throughout the United States. We can help with your Medicare Plan change when you move. Give us a call today at (770) 315-8145 or send us a message online at SeniorSourceMedicare.com/ contact-seniorsource.
Your Local Broker for Medicare Insurance Needs
Paige Gorman Agent
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