Frequently Asked Questions
Starting with a few practical answers can make your insurance conversation easier. These answers are general education; eligibility, product availability and policy terms must still be confirmed for your circumstances, location and coverage year.
What happens during the first conversation?
We begin with the decision you are preparing to make and the information you already have. We may ask about timing, current coverage, doctors, prescriptions, family needs, budget or business goals. The first conversation helps identify what you should review next; it does not obligate you to enroll.
Is there a direct fee for an HCA insurance consultation?
HCA does not charge you a direct consultation fee for the insurance conversations described on this site. An insurance agent may receive compensation from an insurer when enrollment occurs. There is no obligation to enroll.
Who receives an appointment scheduled on this website?
The current scheduler books your quick introductory call with Laura Niles. We arrange the in-person follow-up meeting after that call.
What should I prepare?
Bring the dates, documents and priorities connected to your question. For Medicare or health coverage, prepare your doctors, prescriptions, pharmacies and current coverage. For life insurance, prepare the financial need, beneficiaries and existing policies. If you are an employer, prepare workforce, contribution and renewal information.
Does HCA offer every Medicare plan?
No. HCA represents selected insurance organizations, and product and plan availability varies by area. We will explain which options we can discuss. For a full-market comparison, use Medicare.gov, call 1-800-MEDICARE or contact New York's Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP).
Does HCA have an office in every county or community shown on this site?
Laura Niles serves the counties and communities listed on this site and meets clients in person by scheduled appointment. HCA’s main office is in Lake George; an in-person meeting does not mean HCA maintains a separate office in every community.
Can provider participation, plan benefits and appointment availability change?
Yes. Provider participation, plan benefits, product availability and appointment availability can change. Verify current details for your location, coverage year and specific plan before making a decision.
Is HCA a government agency?
No. HCA is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government, Medicare, Social Security or any state marketplace.
How are appointments conducted?
Start with a quick introductory call. We then schedule an in-person, face-to-face meeting with a local, licensed advisor.
When is Medicare Annual Enrollment?
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7. Other enrollment periods have different purposes and eligibility rules, so the right date depends on your circumstances.
Will you ask for my Medicare Number over the phone?
No. For your security, we never ask for your Medicare Number over the phone. Please bring your Medicare card and present it at your in-person meeting.
Should I send sensitive information through the form?
No. Do not submit Medicare, Social Security, payment-card or medical-record information through the website form or ordinary email. An advisor can explain a safer process if documents are needed later.
Where can I compare coverage using official resources?
Use Medicare Plan Compare (opens in a new tab) to review Medicare plans available in a ZIP code and New York HIICAP (opens in a new tab) for free, independent Medicare counseling.
Where can I verify current rules?
Use Medicare.gov (opens in a new tab), SSA.gov (opens in a new tab), NY State of Health (opens in a new tab) and current plan or policy documents.