Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Consumer Direct Insurance Services of Texas?
Founded in 2011, Consumer Direct Insurance Services of Texas, (CDIS of Texas), is an Independent, Authorized, Exclusive General Agent for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas.

What type of services and products does CDIS of Texas provide?
Consumer Direct Insurance Services of Texas is a fully functioning insurance firm that has been providing exemplary customer service and insurance solution options for individuals with specific needs. CDIS of Texas offers expertise in multiple insurance products such as; Individual Health, Medicare Supplemental Insurance, Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans, Life, Long-Term Care, Annuities, and Dental.

Currently, how many employees does CDIS of Texas have?
CDIS of Texas has over 30 dedicated licensed insurance specialists and administrative staff who are qualified to answer your questions and guide you toward 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 Medicare Supplement Insurance coverage. This includes disabled individuals who are under 65.

When can I apply?

You can apply for Medicare Supplement Insurance during open enrollment. Open enrollment includes six months from the date you enrolled in Medicare Part B if age 65 or older, or up to six months after you turn 65 if you were eligible for Part B benefits before age 65. If you become eligible for Medicare Part B 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 Medicare Part B.

What if I apply and 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. Purchase your first premium only after you are convinced the insurance protection is right for you. Even after you send your first premium 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 Insurance coverage include prescription drug benefits?

No, Medicare Supplement Insurance is designed to fill in the “gaps” with Medicare Plans such as Part A (which covers hospital and skilled nursing facility care) and Part B (which covers doctor bills and other medical expenses). For prescription drug coverage, you can select a separate Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan.

Can I enroll if I do not have Medicare Parts A or B?

No, you must be entitled to Medicare Part A and/or enrolled in Medicare Part B to be eligible for Medicare prescription drug coverage.

To learn how to get Medicare Part A and/or Part B, please call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), 24 hours a day/7 days a week. For the hearing or speech impaired, please call 1-877-486-2048.

You may also contact your State Medicaid Office or the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213, Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. CST. For the hearing or speech impaired, please call 1-800-325-0778.

Does Everyone Need a Policy?

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

You belong to a Medicare Advantage 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 (or my spouse) plan to work after age 65 and continue to receive group health care benefits?

Check with your group plan administrator. You may be able to choose either your group plan or Medicare Plus Medicare Supplement coverage. If you stay with your group health care 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?

As a member, 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.

Do Medicare Supplement plans cover prescription drugs?

No. For your prescription drug coverage needs, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas offers BlueCross MedicareRx^SM, affordable Medicare-approved prescription drug coverage plans.

Will I need to switch doctors?

No. You may continue to see your doctor. Medicare Supplement Plans are convenient and flexible, giving you freedom of choice.

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 assignments.