Medicaid and Medicare in Thibodaux – Can You Qualify for Both?
At Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC, we take pride in helping folks here in Thibodaux understand their healthcare options. We know the system can be confusing—especially when you're trying to figure out how Medicare and Medicaid work together. But you don’t have to sort it all out on your own. That’s what we’re here for.
Let’s break it all down together in plain language. We’ll walk through the basics, what dual eligibility means, how to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, and how our local team can help you find the right Medicare coverage for your needs and budget.
What Is Medicare? – Understanding Medicare Plan Options in Thibodaux
If you’re 65 or older, or you have certain disabilities, chances are you’re eligible for Medicare. This federal health insurance plan helps cover doctor visits, hospital stays, and more. But it’s not all-inclusive.
Medicare comes in parts:
Medicare Part A covers hospital stays. It’s often called hospital insurance.
Medicare Part B helps pay for doctor visits and outpatient care.
Together, these make up what’s called Original Medicare.
Now here's where it gets tricky. Original Medicare covers a lot, but not everything. You still have deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket costs. And there’s no coverage for most prescription drugs, routine dental, vision, or hearing care.
Sound confusing already? Don’t worry—we’ve got you.
What Is Medicaid? – Extra Help for Thibodaux Residents
Medicaid is a state-run program that helps low-income individuals and families. In Louisiana, it’s available to folks who meet certain eligibility rules based on income and assets.
So how does this help you?If you’re eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, you’re what they call “dual eligible.” That means Medicaid can help cover the out-of-pocket costs that Medicare doesn’t—like long-term care, copays, and even some services not covered at all by Medicare.
And the good news? Many Thibodaux residents do qualify for both.
Can You Qualify for Both Medicare and Medicaid in Thibodaux?
Yes, absolutely. Many folks here in Thibodaux—especially seniors or people with limited income—can qualify for both. This can unlock more Medicare benefits, cut down medical bills, and reduce your monthly premium.
To qualify for Medicaid in Louisiana, you typically need to:
Be a Louisiana resident
Meet income limits (usually under 138% of the federal poverty level)
Have limited assets
Be a citizen or legal resident
Medicare Advantage Plan in Thibodaux – A Popular Option for Dual-Eligible Residents
So you’ve heard of Medicare Advantage, but what does it actually mean?
A Medicare Advantage plan (also called Medicare Part C) is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare. These plans are run by private insurance companies, but they’re Medicare-approved.
Most Medicare Advantage plan options in Thibodaux combine:
Medicare Part A and B
Prescription drug coverage
Extra perks like routine dental, vision, fitness programs, and more
Some Thibodaux Medicare Advantage plans are specifically designed for people who are dual eligible. These Special Needs Plans (SNPs) offer even more tailored benefits based on your health status and care needs.
Wondering if you qualify for one of these plans in Thibodaux? Let’s chat.
Choosing the Right Medicare Advantage Plan in Thibodaux
Not all Medicare Advantage plans are created equal. Some have higher star ratings, better provider networks, or different rules on seeing specialists. Some are HMO (Health Maintenance Organizations), others are PPO (Preferred Provider Organizations).
So how do you pick?
Start by asking:
What does the plan cover beyond Original Medicare?
What are the monthly premiums?
How much are the deductibles and out-of-pocket costs?
Does the plan offer your preferred healthcare provider?
Does it include prescription drug coverage?
Medicare Supplement Plan or Medigap – What If You Stick With Original Medicare?
Not ready to jump into Medicare Advantage?
You can also stick with Original Medicare and add a Medicare Supplement plan, also called Medigap. These plans help pay the costs Medicare leaves behind—like coinsurance, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses.
But here's the catch: Medigap plans don’t include prescription drug coverage, so you’ll need a separate Part D plan.
Which is better—Medigap or Medicare Advantage?
That depends on your budget, your type of health insurance needs, and what doctors you want to see. We can compare Medicare options with you and help you find the best Medicare path forward.
When to Enroll – Important Enrollment Periods You Should Know
Timing matters. There are a few key times when you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan or make changes:
Initial Enrollment Period – Starts 3 months before you turn 65 and lasts 7 months
Annual Enrollment Period – Every year from October 15 to December 7
Special Enrollment – For certain life changes, like moving or losing coverage
Open Enrollment Period – From January 1 to March 31 (for switching Medicare Advantage plans)
If you miss these windows, you might have to wait months to make a change. Don’t risk that—call us at (985) 803-8999 and we’ll keep you on track.
Real Help from Real People – Why Thibodaux Trusts Bourgeois Insurance Agency
We’re not a giant insurance company with a 1-800 number. We’re your neighbors.
At Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC, we’ve helped hundreds of Lafourche Parish residents navigate the different types of Medicare, Medicaid, and everything in between.
Our team knows how to:
Review your current insurance plan
Check if you’re eligible for a Medicare Advantage plan in Thibodaux
Explain out-of-pocket costs in plain language
Walk you through the plans available in Thibodaux
Help you apply for dual eligibility
Show you which insurance plan matches your needs and budget
You’re never just a number here. You’re our neighbor—and we’ll treat you like family.
Let’s Find the Right Medicare Plan in Thibodaux Together
Choosing the right Medicare path doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re just turning 65 or already enrolled and wondering if there’s a better option, you deserve support that’s personal and practical.
We’ll help you compare Medicare Advantage plans, see if you’re eligible for Medicaid, and walk you through all the types of Medicare Advantage plans available right here in Thibodaux.
So take a deep breath. Then pick up the phone and call Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC at (985) 803-8999. We’re proud to be your local guide through the Medicare in Louisiana maze.
Because in Thibodaux, we look out for each other—and your health coverage should be no exception.
