Family

Fandango – Broken Arrow’s 2 day Bicycle tour Video 1 of 5

Great job Tammy Fate of the Broken Arrow chamber of comerce on the First Annual Fandango tour

Exclusive Offer: Job Loss Protection Program

We at the Jim Bigelow Group realize that times are hard and that many homeowners are facing layoffs. That is why we, with Coldwell Banker Select, are the only company in Oklahoma that are offering a Job Loss Protection Program, that will pay your mortgage for up to six months if you involuntarily lose your job. Below is the official press release that outlines the plan. If you have any questions regarding this program please email me at jim@jimbigelow.com.

August 3, 2009 :: Tulsa, OK- The Jim Bigelow Group, part of Coldwell Banker Select, , is the only company in Oklahoma offering the Rainy Day Foundation’s Homeowner Education and Loan Protection service (HELP), which is designed to assist homeowners with their mortgage in the event that they lose their employment. This mortgage protection program will enable homeowners to have security in an economically turbulent time. Coldwell Banker Select, specifically the Jim Bigelow Group, is the only company in Oklahoma offering this Job Loss Protection Program.

In the current economic environment many Americans are concerned with job stability and how they are going to make their mortgage payments if they lose their job. The unemployment coverage included in the Rainy Day Foundation’s HELP service assists in keeping homeowners current on their mortgage payments each month so homeowners can minimize their financial stress while they are looking for a job. The Mortgage Protection Program is designed to provide up to six months of mortgage payment if the borrower becomes involuntarily unemployed. The enrollment process is easy and can cover up to $1800 per month.

When asked about his enthusiasm for the program, Bigelow stated, “We want to ensure that the homeowners that buy with us are taken care of.”

About the Bigelow Group:
The Jim Bigelow Group is a leading Tulsa real estate group that serves the greater Tulsa metropolitan area. Their marketing ensures maximum exposure to the homes listed. For Tulsa home buyers, they will help you to locate exactly the home that fits all your criteria and needs.

Home Security Systems

This week we discuss the benefits of having a home security system in relation to your insurance. John and I talk about separate kinds of security systems that can increase the break you can receive from your insurance. With the insurance break that you get it can almost offset the cost of the security system. If you have any questions email me at jim@jimbigelow.com or John at john.buchanan@countryfinancial.com.

When Should I Begin Thinking About Long Term Care Insurance?

We are discussing the costs and benefits of long term care insurance this week. Did you know that 1 in 2 people will need some form of long term care insurance at some point? This type of insurance can be the difference between ending up at home rather than in a nursing home. If you have any other questions regarding whether you should be considering long term care insurance contact me at jim@jimbigelow.com or John at john.buchanan@countryfinancial.com.

7 Questions to Ask When Shopping for a Digital Camera

 

 Looking for a new digital camera to capture your listings from their very best angles? Consider these key features.

 1. Compact or digital SLR? Compacts have a self-contained lens and can slip into a pocket or purse. They offer point and shoot simplicity for $300 or less. With bigger digital single-lens reflex cameras, you can use your choice of lenses. They’re for serious shooters who want more options and creative control and who are willing to pay $500 or more to start building a system.

 2. How many megapixels? A camera with an image sensor of 3 megapixels or more is plenty for photos destined for the Web or brochures. You don’t need a larger sensor unless you plan to produce poster-sized prints.

 3. Does it have a wide-angle lens? This should be a key consideration. For real estate, a wide-angle lens—28mm or less—is what you need to capture a whole room or the exterior of a home in a single image. Look for a lens that minimizes distortion.

 4. What’s the zoom? The more powerful the better. Optical zoom is what the camera can actually see and capture; digital zoom is a software function and isn’t quite as sharp. For compact cameras, look for 4X or better. For DSLRs, you can find lenses that give you both wide angles and closeups as you zoom in and out.

 5. Do I need extra flash? If you plan on shooting a lot of interiors, you’ll want more than the built-in flash. Look for a camera with a hot shoe, which connects and synchronizes an auxiliary flash unit with the camera.

 6. How big is the screen? Using a compact camera, you’ll rely on the LCD screen to frame some shots, review pictures, and perform basic image editing. Consider both the size—ideally 2.5 inches or larger—and the brightness of the screen.

 7. Can I shoot video? Look for the ability to record video at 30 frames per second. Optics are also important; some lenses’  zoom doesn’t work when you use movie mode.

 

Jim Bigelow    Bigelow Group  Realtors  918-640-4657

www.jimbigelow.com                jim@jimbigelow.com

Coldwell Banker Select

7 Steps for Removing Mold From Listings

 

What Is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungus made up of tiny microscopic organisms that can grow practically anywhere, such as on ceiling tiles, wallpaper, wood, paints, carpet, and insulation. It multiplies via spores and shows itself in a variety of colors, from greens to browns to pinks, grays, blacks, and yellows. The most common mold growth area in the house is the bathroom, since mold grows on moist materials.

If you spot mold in one of your listings, you’ll first want to size up the problem, and then create a plan for safe and complete removal.

If the mold is found in a small area, less than 10 square feet, removal can be a do-it-yourself project. Here’s how:

1. Wear a face mask, goggles, and rubber gloves. Don’t touch mold with bare skin.

2. Seal off the area to prevent the tiny spores from spreading to other parts of the house during the removal process. Open the windows and cover heat registers and ventilation ducts.

3. Wash the affected hard surface areas with a mild detergent solution, such as laundry detergent and warm water. As an added step, wipe the area with a solution of a quarter-cup bleach and one quart of water. (Warning: Do not mix ammonia and bleach; the fumes can be toxic.)

4. Dry the surface completely. Use fans and dehumidifiers or natural ventilation.

5. Apply a borate-based detergent solution. Don’t rinse. This will help prevent the mold from growing again. (Look for “borate” listed on the ingredient labels of laundry or dishwasher detergent.)

6. Don’t take shortcuts. Never paint or caulk over moldy surfaces. The paint will peel and the mold will resurface.

7. Call a professional. Just when you think you finally won the battle against mold, you might see dormant spores reappear or even spread to clean areas of the house, particularly if proper removal procedures weren’t taken. You may need to call a mold remediation company to resolve the problem.

Sources: The Truth About Mold (Dearborn, 2008) by Susan C. Cooper and Mike Buettner; EPA; Washington State Department of Health

Jim Bigelow    Bigelow Group  Realtors  918-640-4657

www.jimbigelow.com                jim@jimbigelow.com

Coldwell Banker Select

 

Recession Job Hunt

Recession Job Hunt

Competition for Jobs in a Slow Economy

Veterans discharging from the Armed Services meet new challenges. Job Fair lines are getting longer as unemployment rates climb. Don’t panic/plan to adapt and succeed.

Be versatile, mobile, and plan to go where the jobs are. It’s likely you have full or partial paid move coming, courtesy of Uncle Sam. If you are willing to relocate, and a prospective employer does not have to pay moving expenses; you have become a hot commodity.

Read the papers and explore companies own websites. Focus on new contracts or a company product. This gives you an in, while others are on their way out. Take part time work if it is available, seasonable or temporary. Any of these can help you pay the bills, and possibly get you an audience with the decision makers once the economy revives.

To succeed at a Job Fair, prepare before hand on the position you want. Be prepared to tell a prospective employer how you will mesh with his organization and what skills you will bring to a position.

Research the company for specific openings the employer is looking to fill. Don’t waste time handing out resumes that don’t relate your skills for the job. The goal of job hunting is to get a second interview.

Follow up, get a business card and don’t call, a hand written thank you note, referring to the Job Fair makes you more noticeable. Send a fresh resume on nice paper, and always send a cover letter with every resume.

Companies who are hiring include: Banfield, Farmers Insurance, Gentiva Health Services, ITT Corp, M.A.R.S. International, Pricewaters, Service Master, 7-11, and Quik-Trip. Pick the positions you want, and refine your efforts accordingly, or find a company that looks like the right fit, learning all you can, and fine tuning your approach.

As a military retiree, dedicated to the military personnel and their families, I urge you to contact Coleman White@Jimbigelow.com for all your real estate needs.

Coleman White 918-760-1317

coleman@jimbigelow.com www.jimbigelow.com

Jim Bigelow Bigelow Group Realtors 918-640-4657

www.jimbigelow.com jim@jimbigelow.com

Coldwell Banker Select

What Is Covered – Part C “Medigap” (Supplemental Insurance)

What Is Covered – Part C “Medigap” (Supplemental Insurance)

A Medigap policy is private health insurance sold by private insurance companies specifically designed to supplement the Original Medicare Plan. It Offers:

· Added Coverage – Medigap policies cover certain things that Medicare doesn’t cover.

· Lowers Deductibles & Co-Pays – It helps pay some of the health care costs (”gaps”) that the Original Medicare Plan doesn’t cover.

· Standardized Plans – By law, insurance companies can offer only 12 standardized Medigap benefit packages, referred to as Plans A through L. That means that the only difference in any standardized plan, such as Plan J, from one insurance company to another is the price. The benefits are identical.

· Guaranteed Issue Rights – If you are in your Medigap open enrollment period, insurance companies are required by law to sell or offer you a Medigap policy. In these situations, an insurance company can’t deny you a Medigap policy, or place conditions on a Medigap policy, such as exclusions for or existing conditions, and can’t charge you more for a Medigap policy because of past or present health problems. You may also be able to buy a Medigap policy at other times, but the insurance company is allowed to deny you a Medigap policy based on your health. Also, in some cases it may be illegal for the insurance company to sell you a Medigap policy (such as if you already have Medicaid or a Medicare Advantage Plan).

· Guaranteed Renewable – Your insurance company must automatically renew or continue your Medigap policy, unless you make untrue statements to the insurance company, commit fraud, or don’t pay your premiums.

· Medigap policy only covers one person – If you and your spouse both want Medigap coverage, you each must buy separate Medigap policies.

· Every insurance company must make Medigap Plan A available if they offer any other Medigap policy.

· Not all types of Medigap policies may be available in your state. (e.g Massachussets, Minnesota, or Wisconsin).

· Medigap plans A – J must offer the following basic benefits:
Co-insurance for hospital days 61-90 – ($267/day in 2009) and
– Co-insurance for the 60 lifetime reserve days ($534/day in 2009).
– 100% of the cost of hospital care beyond 150 days covered by Medicare, up to a maximum of 365 lifetime days.
– 20% Co-insurance for Medicare approved charges after the $135 annual Part B Medicare deductible has been met.
– The first 3 pints of blood in each calendar year.
– Plan A has only the basic benefits.

The following Chart recaps Medigap coverage.

· If a check mark appears in the column, this means that the Medigap policy covers 100% of the described benefit.

· If the column lists a percentage, this means the Medigap policy covers that percentage of the described benefit.

· If no percentage appears or if the column is blank, this means the Medigap policy doesn’t cover that benefit.

· The Medigap policy covers coinsurance only after you have paid the deductible (unless the policy also covers the deductible).

Click Here for Medigap Plan A thru L Benefits info

*Medigap Plans F and J also offer a high-deductible option. You must pay the first $2,000 (high-deductible in 2009) in Medigap-covered costs before the Medigap policy pays anything.

** You must also pay a separate deductible for foreign travel emergency ($250 per year).

*** After you meet your out-of-pocket yearly limit and your yearly Part B deductible ($135 in 2008), the plan pays 100% of covered services for the rest of the calendar year.

Medicare Advantage Plans

These Plans provide all of your Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) benefits and must cover at least all of the medically necessary services that the Original Medicare Plan provides. Medicare Advantage Plans, like HMOs and PPOs, are another way to get Medicare benefits. These plans are health plan options approved by Medicare and run by private companies.

Medicare Advantage Plans may offer extra benefits, such as vision, hearing, dental, and/or health and wellness programs, and most include Medicare prescription drug coverage (usually for an extra cost). Medicare Advantage Plans generally have provider networks. This means you probably have to see doctors who belong to the plan or go to certain hospitals to get covered services. You may need a referral to see specialists.

Medicare Advantage plans include:

· Medicare Preferred Provider Organization Plans (PPO)
A PPO is a specific group of doctors and/or hospitals that provides medical services. PPO members pay for services as they are rendered.

Are prescription drugs covered?
In most cases, yes. Ask the plan. If you want drug coverage, you must enroll in a PPO plan that offers prescription drug coverage.

Do I need to choose a primary care doctor?
No.

Can I get my health care from any doctor or hospital?
Yes. PPOs have network doctors and hospitals, but you can also use out-of-network providers for covered services, usually for a higher cost.

Do I have to see a primary care doctor to get a referral to see a specialist?
In most cases, no. What else do I need to know about this type of plan? You may be able to get extra benefits for an additional premium.

· Medicare Health Maintenance Organization Plans (HMO)

HMOs provide medical treatment on a prepaid basis regardless of how much medical care is needed. HMOs provide a wide variety of medical services, from office visits to hospitalization and surgery. With a few exceptions, HMO members must receive their medical treatment from physicians and facilities within the HMO network.

Are prescription drugs covered?
In most cases, yes. Ask the plan. If you want drug coverage, you must enroll in an HMO plan that offers prescription drug coverage.

Do I need to choose a primary care doctor?
Yes. You generally must see a primary care doctor to get a referral before you see any other health care provider.

Can I get my health care from any doctor or hospital?
No. You generally must get your care and services from doctors or hospitals in the plan’s network (except emergency or urgent care). If the plan has a point-of-service option, you can go out-of-network, but it will cost more.

Do I have to see a primary care doctor to get a referral to see a specialist?
In most cases, yes. Exceptions include yearly screening mammograms and in-network Pap tests and pelvic exams (at least every other year), which don’t require a referral.

What else do I need to know about this type of plan?
– If your doctor leaves, your plan will notify you, You can choose another doctor in the plan.
– If you get health care outside the plan’s network, you may have to pay the full cost.
– It’s important that you follow the plan’s rules, like getting prior authorization when needed.
– You may be able to get extra benefits for an extra premium.

· Medicare Private Fee-for-Service Plans (PFFS)

PFFS is a Medicare Advantage health plan offered by a state licensed risk bearing entity, which has a yearly contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to provide beneficiaries with all their Medicare benefits plus any additional benefits the company decides to provide. In most cases, people who join a PFFS are not required to use a network of providers. Beneficiaries can see any provider who is eligible to receive payment from Medicare and agrees to accept payment from the PFFS MAO.

Are prescription drugs covered?
Sometimes. If your PFFS Plan doesn’t offer drug coverage, you can join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan to get coverage.

Do I need to choose a primary care doctor?
No.

Can I get my health care from any doctor or hospital?
In most cases, yes. You can go to any Medicare-approved doctor or hospital if they agree to the plan’s terms and conditions of payment before treating you. Not all providers will accept the plan’s payment terms or agree to treat you.

Do I have to see a primary care doctor to get a referral to see a specialist?
No.

What else do I need to know about this type of plan?
PFFS Plans aren’t the same as the Original Medicare Plan and they have different rules from other Medicare Advantage Plans.
– PFFS Plans are offered by private companies. The private company, not Medicare, decides how much the plan will pay and how much you pay for services.
– You may be able to get extra benefits for an extra premium.
– Before you join a PFFS Plan, make sure you find doctors, hospitals, and other types of providers willing to contact the plan for payment information and accept the plan’s payment terms.

· Medicare Special Needs Plans (SNP)

SNPs serve certain people with Medicare who are chronically ill with specific diseases or conditions (such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, mental illness, or HIV/AIDS), who live in institutions like nursing homes, or who have other special needs.

Are prescription drugs covered?
Yes. All SNPs must provide Medicare prescription drug coverage. Formularies may be designed to cover the drugs members need most.

Do I need to choose a primary care doctor?
In some cases, yes, or you may need to have a care coordinator help you develop personal care plans and coordinate your care.

Can I get my health care from any doctor or hospital?
You generally must get your care and services from doctors or hospitals in the plan’s network (except emergency or urgent care). Plans typically have specialists for the diseases or conditions that affect their members.

Do I have to see a primary care doctor to get a referral to see a specialist?
In most cases, yes. Yearly screening mammograms and an in-network Pap test and pelvic exam (at least every other year) don’t require a referral.

· Medicare Medical Savings Account Plans (MSA)

MSAs are two-part health insurance programs consisting of a high-deductible health insurance policy and a tax-free investment account set up to fund medical costs not covered by the policy.

Are prescription drugs covered?
No. You can join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan to get drug coverage.

Do I need to choose a primary care doctor?
No.

Can I get my health care from any doctor or hospital?
Yes. Some plans may have network doctors and hospitals you could go to for a lower cost.

Do I have to see a primary care doctor to get a referral to see a specialist?
No.

What else do I need to know about this type of plan?
– if the year is added to your next deposit.
– Medicare MSA Plans have two parts: a high-deductible health plan and a bank account. Medicare gives the plan an amount each year for your health care, and the plan deposits a portion of this money into your account.
–You can use the money in your account to pay your health care costs. When you use account money for Medicare-covered Part A and Part B services, it counts toward your plan’s deductible. After you reach your deductible, your plan will cover your Medicare-covered services.

· If You Join a Medicare Advantage Plan:

You are still in the Medicare Program.You still have Medicare rights and protections, including the right to appeal.

You still get Part A and Part B coverage.

You generally still pay the monthly Part B premium. You also pay the Medicare Advantage Plan’s premium (if they charge one) that includes coverage for Part A and Part B benefits and prescription drug coverage (Part D, if offered), and any extra benefits (if offered).

You may have to use providers who belong to the plan. If you use providers who aren’t in the network, you may have to pay the entire cost of the covered service.

You must follow plan rules, like getting a referral to see a specialist or getting prior authorization for certain procedures. Check with the plan.

You usually will have to pay some other costs (such as copayments, deductibles, or coinsurance) for the services you get. Out-of-pocket costs in these plans cary by the services you get. Check with your plan before you get a service to find out what your costs may be.

You don’t need to (and can’t) buy a Medigap policy . It won’t cover your Medicare Advantage Plan deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance.

If you see a doctor who doesn’t belong to the plan, your services won’t be covered, or your costs could be higher.

The plan will send you an Evidence of Coverage each year. This document gives you details about what benefits the plan will cover, how much you pay, how to file an appeal, and more. Plan benefits may change each year. The plan will send you an Annual Notice of Change each fall. This notice has information about any changes in benefits, costs, or service area that will be effective in January. If the plan covers prescription drugs, the notice will include changes to the formulary. You should review this notice carefully to learn about changes for the upcoming year to decide if you want to look at other plans in your area.

Medicare offers prescription drug coverage for everyone with Medicare. This coverage is called “Part D”.

· To get Medicare drug coverage, you must either join a Medicare drug plan adding on to your Original Medicare Plan, or join a Medicare Advantage Plan that includes Part D.

· Medicare drug plans are run by insurance companies and other private companies approved by Medicare.

· Each plan can vary in cost and drugs covered.

· If you decide not to join a Medicare drug plan when you are first eligible, you may pay a late-enrollment penalty if you choose to join late.

· If you qualify for extra help and don’t choose a plan yourself, Medicare will enroll you in one.

All Medicare drug plans must generally cover at least two drugs in each category of drugs, but plans can choose which specific drugs are covered in each category. Plans are required to cover almost all drugs in six classes that include anti-psychotics, anti-depressants, anti-convulsants, immunosuppressants, cancer, and HIV/AIDS drugs.

There are certain drugs that Medicare drug plans aren’t required to cover, such as benzodiazepines, barbiturates, drugs for weight loss or gain, and drugs for erectile dysfunction. Some plans may choose to cover these drugs as an added benefit. In addition, drug plans generally aren’t allowed to cover over-the-counter drugs. Some states may cover these drugs if you have Medicaid.

Plans may also exclude certain drugs from coverage. Although your Medicare drug plan may not have a certain drug on its list of covered drugs (formulary), a different drug that is safe and effective for the same purpose will be covered. This may be a generic version of the drug, or it may be another brand-name drug that may provide the same benefit as the drug that isn’t on the plan’s formulary. All plans must have a process for you to ask them to pay for a drug you need that isn’t on their formulary. They may or may not agree to cover the drug.

What Is Not Covered

Items and services that Medicare doesn’t cover include, but are not limited to the following:

· Acupuncture,

· Chiropractic services (with some exceptions),

· Cosmetic surgery,

· Custodial care (such as help with bathing or using the bathroom), except when you also get skilled nursing care in a skilled nursing facility, at home, or in a hospice,

· Deductibles, co-insurance, or co-payments when you get certain health care services,

· Dental care and dentures (with only a few exceptions),

· Eye care (routine exam), eye refractions (exam that measures your ability to see at specific distances), and most eyeglasses (with some exceptions),

· Foot care (routine) like cutting corns or calluses (with few exceptions), Hearing aids and exams for the purpose of fitting a hearing aid, Hearing tests that haven’t been ordered by your doctor,

· Laboratory tests for screening purposes (with some exceptions), Long-term care, for example, if you only need custodial care in a nursing home,

· Orthopedic shoes (with few exceptions),

· Physical exams (routine or yearly). Medicare will cover a one-time physical exam within the first 6 months of enrolling in Part B (co-insurance and Part B deductible applies),

· Prescription drugs. Most precription drugs aren’t covered by Part A or Part B, Shots to prevent illness (with some exceptions),

· Syringes or insulin, unless the insulin is used with an insulin pump, but it may be covered by Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D), and

· Travel (health care while you’re traveling outside the United States… with some exceptions).

Medigap policies don’t cover long-term care (like care in a nursing home),

Jim Bigelow 918-640-4657

www.jimbigelow.com jim@jimbigelow.com

Coldwell Banker Select

Post 9/11 GI Bill

Post 9/11 GI Bill

Veterans Administration rejects veterans transfer rights in it’s final rule. The Post (9/11 GI Bill) removed some restrictions on current service members sharing educational benefits with family members, but reject requests for the same transfer rights given to veterans. VA officials said they could not allow veterans to share benefits with family members, because transfer rights are, by law, limited to people who are in the service on August 1, 2009, when the new GI Bill Program begins.

Also rejected was living stipends for people using the new GI Bill for distance learning and rules for veterans suffering traumatic brain injuries that would provide them full payment even if they are not full time students.

Veterans who plan to attend colleges or universities the rules revise procedures that reduce tuition under a matching fund program.

The new GI Bill Program features monthly benefits that cover the cost of tuition and fees at a four year public college or university, plus a $1,000 annual book allowance, and a monthly stipend for renting a two bedroom town house in the same zip code as the college campus.

The VA is responsible for payment of benefits tuition directly to the school, but the stipend is paid to the student, and the Defense Department is responsible for setting rules for how current service members will be able to share earned benefits with a spouse or children.

The VA final rules involve the transfer of benefits. Some benefits can be transferred to a spouse or children, along with basic benefits. When benefits are transferred, a spousal divorce, or a child’s marriage will not terminate benefits, although a service member can reduce or rescind the transfer of benefits at any time or any reason.

Veteran’s educational benefits are not marital property that can be divided in a property settlement after divorce. Living stipends will not be paid to the spouse of an active duty service member, and will not be paid to a service member using the GI Bill while still in service.

Reduced tuition can be offered to people attending a university of medicine, but not to law students. Reduced tuition has to be guaranteed for a full academic year. One new feature of this Post 9/11 Bill is the Yellow Ribbon Program in which the VA will match dollar for dollar reduction in tuition at private institutions. VA hopes to have a list of institutions offering Yellow Ribbon Program reduced tuition later this year.

As a military retiree, dedicated to the military personnel and their families, I urge you to contact Coleman White@Jimbigelow.com for all your real estate needs.

Coleman White 918-760-1317

coleman@jimbigelow.com www.jimbigelow.com

Jim Bigelow Bigelow Group Realtors 918-640-4657

www.jimbigelow.com jim@jimbigelow.com

Coldwell Banker Select

Maintenance & Home Insurance

Maintenance & Home Insurance

What Is Medicare ? Part 3

What Is Covered – Part B

· Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening (Preventive Service): A one-time screening ultrasound for people at risk (like people who have smoked). Medicare only covers this screening if you get a referral for it as a result of your “Welcome to Medicare” physical exam. You pay coinsurance.

· Ambulance Services: When you need to be transported to a hospital or a skilled nursing facility for medically necessary services, and transportation in any other vehicle would endanger your health. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Ambulatory Surgery Center Fees: Facility fees for approved services at an Ambulatory Surgery Center (facility where surgical procedures are performed, and the patient is released the same day). You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Blood: Pints of blood you get, starting with the 4th, as an outpatient or as part of a Part B-covered service. The first three pints aren’t covered. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Bone Mass Measurement (Preventive Service): To help see if you are at risk for broken bones. This service is covered once every 24 months (more often if medically neccessary) for people who have certain medical conditions or meet certain criteria. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Cardiovascular Screenings (Preventive Service): To help prevent a heart attack or stroke. This service is covered every 5 years to test your cholesterol, lipid, and triglyceride levels. No cost.

· Chiropractic Services (Limited): To correct a subluxation (when one or more of the bones of your spine move out of position) using manipulation of the spine. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Clinical Laboratory Services: Including certain blood tests, urinalysis, some screening tests, and more. No cost.

· Clinical Research Studies: To help doctors and researchers find better ways to prevent, diagnose, or treat diseases. Clinical research studies test new types of medical care, like how well a new cancer drug works. Usual patient care costs are covered if you take part in a qualifying clinical research study. If the item or services isn’t covered outside of a clinical research study, the cost of the investigational item or service may nor be covered. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Colorectal Cancer Screenings (Preventative Service): To help find precancerous growths and help prevent or find cancer early, when treatment is most effective. One or more tests may be covered…talk to your doctor.

· Diabetes Screenings (Preventive Service): To check for diabetes. These screenings are covered if you have any of the following risk factors: high blood pressure (hypertension), dyslipidemia (history of abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels), obesity, or a history of high blood sugar. Tests are also covered if you answer yes to two or more of the following questions: • Are you age 65 or older? • Are you overweight? • Do you have a family history of diabetes (parents, siblings)? • Do you have a history of gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or did you deliver a baby weighing more than nine pounds? Based on the results of these tests, you may be eligible for up to two diabetes screenings every year. No cost.

· Diabetes Self-Management Training (Preventive): For people with diabetes. Your doctor or other health care people must provide a written order. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Diabetes Supplies: Including glucose testing monitors, blood glucose test strips, lancet devices and lancets, glucose control solutions, and therapeutic shoes (in some cases). Syringes and insulin are only covered if used with an insulin pump, but may be covered by Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D). You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Doctor Services: Services that are medically necessary or covered preventive services. Doesn’t cover routine physical except for the one-time “Welcome the Medicare” physical exam. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Durable Medical Equipment: Items such as oxygen, wheelchairs, walkers, and hospital beds needed for use in the home. For certain equipment, such as wheelchairs and hospital beds, Medicare pays rental fees for up to 13 months (36 months for oxygen). After this, you own the equipment, and Medicare pays for maintenance. For Medicare to cover your equipment, you must go to a supplier that is enrolled in Medicare. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies. In some cases, if you buy the equipment without renting it first, Medicare pays no part. New: In 2008, you may have to use certain Medicare-contract suppliers to get certain durable medical equipment in some geographic areas. Call 1-800-633-4227 for more information. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

· Emergency Room Services: When you believe your health is in serious danger. You may have a bad injury, a sudden illness, or an illness that quickly gets much worse. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Eye Exams: For people with diabetes to check for diabetic retinopathy once every 12 months. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Eyeglasses (Limited): One pair of eyeglasses with standard frames (or one set of contact lenses) after cataract surgery that implants an intraocular lens. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Flu Shots (Preventive service): To help prevent influenza or flue virus. This is covered once a flu season in the fall or winter. The flu is a serious illness. You need a flu shot for the current virus each year. No cost.

· Foot Exams and Treatment: If you have diabetes-related nerve damage and/or meet certain conditions. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Glaucoma Tests (Preventive service): To help find the eye disease glaucoma. This is covered once every 12 months for people at high risk for glaucoma. You are considered high risk for glaucoma if you have diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, are African-American and age 50 or older, or are Hispanic and age 65 or older. Tests must be done by an eye doctor who is legally authorized by the state. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Hearing and Balance Exams: If your doctor orders it to see if you need medical treatment. Hearing aids and exams for fitting hearing aids aren’t covered. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Hepatitis B Shots (Preventive service): To help protect people from getting Hepatitis B. This is covered (three shots) for people at high or medium risk for Hepatitis B. Your risk for Hepatitis B increases if you have hemophilia, End-Stage Renal Disease (permannt kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant), or a condition that lowers your resistance to infection. Other factors may increase your risk for Hepatitis B, so check with your doctor to see if you are at high or medium risk. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Home Health Services: Limited to reasonable and necessary part-time or intermittent skilled care or continuing need for physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech-related pathology ordered by a doctor and provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency. Home health services may also include medical social services, home health aide services or other services, durable medical equipment (such as wheelchairs, hospital beds, oxygen, and walkers) and medical supplies for use at home. No cost for home healh services. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies for dirable medical equipment.

· Kidney Dialysis Services and Supplies: Either in a facility or at home when your doctor orders it. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Mammograms (screening) (Preventive service): A type of x-ray to check women for breast cancer before they or their doctor may be able to feel it. Screening mammograms are covered once every 12 months for all women with Medicare age 40 and older. Medicare covers one baseline mammogram for women between age 35 and 39. You pay coinsurance.

· Medical Nutrition Therapy Services (Preventive service): Medicare may cover medical nutrition therapy if you have diabetes or kidney disease and your doctor refers you for the service. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Mental Health care (outpatient): To get help with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Includes services generally given outside a hospital or in a hospital outpatient department, including visits with a doctor, clinical psychologist or clinical social worker, and lab tests. Certain limits and conditions apply. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies. Note: Talk to your doctor if you feel sad, have little interest in things you used to enjoy, or have thoughts about ending your life.

· Occupational Therapy: Services to help you return to usual activities (such as bathing) after an illness when your doctor orders them. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Outpatient Hospital Services: Services you get as an outpatient as part of a doctor’s care. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Outpatient Medical and Surgical Services and Supplies: For approved procedures. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies. Pap Test and Pelvic Exam (includes clinical breast exam) (Preventive service): To check for cervical and vaginal cancers. Medicare covers these screening tests once every 24 months for women at low risk, and once every 12 months for women at high risk and for women of child-bearing age who have had an exam that indicated cancer or other abnormalities in the past three years. No cost for the Pap lab test. You pay coinsurance for Pap test collection, and pelvic and breast exams.

· Physical Exam (One-time “Welcome to Medicare” Physical Exam) (Preventive service): A one-time review of your health, and education and counseling about preventive services, including certain screenings and shots and referrals for other care if needed. Important: You must have the physical exam within the first 6 months you have Part B for it to be covered by Medicare. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Physical Therapy: Evaluation and treatment of injuries and disease using various procedures, such as exercises and testing, when your doctor orders it. It may also include heat, light, and ultrasound therapy. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Pneumococcal Shot (Preventive service): To help prevent pneumococcal infections (like certain types of pneumonia). Most people only need this preventive service once in their lifetime. Talk with your doctor. No cost.

· Practitioner Services: Such as services provided by clinical social workers, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Prescription Drugs (limited): Includes certain injectable cancer drugs or immunosuppressive drugs. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies. Note: See Part D for additional Medicare prescription drug coverage.

· Prostate Cancer Screening (Preventive service): These tests help detect prostate cancer. Medicare covers a digital rectal exam (You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies for the exam) and Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test once every 12 months for all men with Medicare over age 50. No cost for the PSA test.

· Prosthetic/Orthotic Items: Including arm, leg, back, and neck braces; artificial eyes; artificial limbs (and their replacement parts); breast prostheses (after mastectomy); prosthetic devices needed to replace an internal body part or function (including ostomy supplies, and prenteral and enteral nutrition therapy). For Medicare to cover your prosthetic or orthotic, you must go to a supplier that is enrolled in Medicare. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Rural Health Clinic and Federally-Qualified Health Center Services: A broad range of primary care services usually provided on an outpatient basis. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies for rural health clinic services.

· Second Surgical Opinions: Covered in some cases for surgery that isn’t an emergency. in some cases, Medicare covers third surgical opinions. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Smoking Cessation (counseling to stop smoking) (Preventive service): Covered if your doctor orders it. Includes counseling for 2 cessation attempts within a 12 month period if you are diagnosed with a smoking-related illness or are taking medicine that may be affected by tobacco. Counseling for each cessation attempt includes up to four face-to-face visits. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Speech-Language Pathology Services: Treatment given to regain and strengthen speech skills when your doctor orders it. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Surgical Dressings: For treatment of a surgical or surgically-treated wound. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Telemedicine: In some rural areas, under certain conditions and only in a provider’s office, a hospital, or a federally-qualified health center. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Tests: Including X-Rays, MRIs, CT scans, EKGs, and some other diagnostic tests. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Transplants: Including doctor services for heart, lung, kindey, pancreas, intestine, and liver transplants under certain conditions and only in a Medicare-certified facility. Bone marrow and cornea transplants are covered (under certain conditons. Immunosuppressive drugs are covered if Medicare paid for the transplant, or and employer or union group health plan that was required to pay before Medicare paid for it. You must have been entitled to Part A at the time of the transplant and Part B at the time you get immunosuppressive drugs, and the transplant must have been performed in a Medicare-certified facility. If you join a Medicare Advantage Plan, check with the plan for information on transplant coverage. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies. Note: Medicare drug plans may cover immunosuppressive drugs, even if Medicare or an employer or union group health plan didn’t pay for the transplant.

· Travel (health care needed when traveling outside the United States): Limited to medical services provided in Canada when you travel on the most direct route through Canada between Alaska and another state. Medicare also covers hospital, ambulance, and doctor services if you are in the U.S., but the nearest hospital that can treat you isn’t in the U.S. (The “U.S.” includes the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa). In some limired cases, Medicare may pay for services you get while on board a ship within the territorial waters adjoining the land areas of the U.S. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

· Urgently Needed Care: To treat a sudden illness or injury that isn’t a medical emergency. You pay coinsurance, and Part B deductible applies.

Jim Bigelow 918-640-4657

www.jimbigelow.com jim@jimbigelow.com

Coldwell Banker Select

American Recovery/Reinvestment Act of 2008

American Recovery/Reinvestment Act of 2008

First time home buyers purchasing any kind of home, new or resale are eligible for the tax credit. To qualify a home purchase must occur on or after January 1, 2009 and December 2009. The purchase date is when closing occurs, and the title to the property transfers to the new home owner.

For married tax payers, this law test the home ownership of the buyer and his/her spouse. For example: if you have not owned a home in the last three years, but your spouse owned a principal residence, neither you or your spouse qualifies for the tax credit.

However, unmarried joint purchasers can allocate the credit amount to any buyer who qualifies as a first time home buyer.

Ownership of a vacation home or rental property does not qualify as a first time home buyer.

The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000 dollars.

The income limits for single tax payers is $75,000 and the limit for married tax payers is $150,000 filing a joint return.

This tax credit does not have to be repaid. You claim the tax credit on your Federal Income Tax return. Home buyers should complete IRS Form 5405 to determine their tax credit amount, and claim this amount on line 69 of their 1040 income tax return. No other forms or applications are required, and no approval is necessary.

Any home that will be used as a principal residence will qualify for the credit. The tax credit is refundable, which involves the government sending the tax payer a check for a portion or maybe all of the refundable tax credit.

For qualified veterans 100 percent financing is available through VA Guaranteed Loan Program. Veterans with 100 percent disabilities, certified by the Veterans Administration as service connected are eligible for property exempt status in the State of Oklahoma.

As a military retiree, dedicated to the military personnel and their families, I urge you to contact Coleman White@Jimbigelow.com for all your real estate needs.

Coleman White 918-760-1317

coleman@jimbigelow.com www.jimbigelow.com

Jim Bigelow Bigelow Group Realtors 918-640-4657

www.jimbigelow.com jim@jimbigelow.com

Coldwell Banker Select

A New Garden

A New Garden Creating your own garden from the very beginning can be an exciting project. However, if you think that you will have the last say as to what happens nature may disagree with you. To maintain your sanity you will need to work in harmony with nature. Planning and preparation will make all the difference in the success of your garden. It’s easy to dig up some soil and throw some plants in the ground. It is another thing altogether to create a healthy, vibrant garden. What to Grow? First you need to consider the location of your garden and the kinds of plants that can grow under the existing conditions. There are three main factors that influence what can grow in a given location; sunlight, soil composition and soil moisture. While you can somewhat manipulate soil composition and moisture, you certainly can not influence the sunlight. You will need to have a good idea of the amount of sunlight that will reach the garden. Don’t forget to take into account those areas of the garden that are partially or fully shaded, such as spots on the north side of a building or under a large tree. You will need the appropriate plants in the appropriate areas. Soil You will need to determine the composition of the soil in your garden. An ideal garden soil is made up of 40% sand, 40% silt and 20% clay. There are several easy ways to determine the make up of your soil. One to try is to put a couple cups of your soil in a large jar that is half filled with water. Stir up the solution until all of the soil is in suspension. Let it settle over night and the next day you should see three layers of soil; sand, then silt then clay at the top. You can then tell the rough percentage of each type. Improving soil conditions Adding organic matter is the best way to improve the composition of your soil. If the soil is sandy or silty add a combination of topsoil and peat moss (always moisten peat moss before adding it to your soil.) If there is too much clay, add the peat moss with some sand. You can also try using compost in replacement of peat moss, and be sure to never add sand directly to your soil. Sand should only be added in combination with organic matter. Moisture Of course soil moisture is dependent on the climate of your area, but there can still be variations in your yard. If you are at the bottom of a hill, for example, your garden may stay wet for long periods. It’s best (and easiest) to use plants that like a lot of water. On the other hand, if the area is very dry, it may be tougher than you think to compensate by frequent watering. Choosing plants that are happy in dry climates will make your life much simpler. The bottom line is that although you can compensate somewhat for your existing garden conditions, it can be a lot more rewarding to work with the natural conditions. Planting the appropriate plants for the given environment will save you time, money and pain.   Sincerely,   Jim Bigelow

Jim Bigelow Group   Jim Bigelow   Email Jim   Phone:   (918)481-8357   Cell:   (918)640-4657   Fax:   (918)481-8360

Visit our website at http://www.jimbigelow.com/

What is Medicare? Part 2

What is Medicare?

What Is Covered – Part A

This and succeeding sections outline the coverage for “Original Medicare” Part A (Hospital Insurance), Part B (Medical Insurance); Part C (”Medigap”/Supplemental Insurance); Part D (Prescription Drugs); and common Medicare Advantage Plans.

Since the topic includes many details and options we have presented the basics to help you understand the coverage. Please research all the details applicable to your location, in more depth, before selecting and enrolling in a specific Plan.

Part A (Hospital Insurance) Covered Services

·         Blood: Starting with the 4th pint of blood you get at a hospital or skilled nursing facility during a covered stay. The first three pints are not covered.
 

·         Home Health Services: Limited to reasonable and necessary part time or intermittent skilled care or continuing need for physical therapy, or speech-related pathology, ordered by the doctor and provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency. Home health services may also include medical social services, durable medical equipment (such as wheelchairs, hospital beds, oxygen, and walkers), and medical supplies for use at home.
 

·         Hospice Care: For people with a terminal illness who are expected to live 6 months or less if the disease runs its normal course. Coverage includes drugs, medicinal and support services from a Medicare approved hospice, and other services not otherwise covered by Medicare (such as grief counseling) for terminal and related conditions. Hospice care is usually given in your home (or other facility where you may live). Medicare covers some short-term inpatient stays (for pain and symptom management) and inpatient respite care (care given to a hospice patient so that the usual caregiver can rest).
 

·         Hospital Stays: Semi-private room, meals, general nursing, and other hospital services and supplies. This includes inpatient you get in acute care hospitals, critical access hospitals, inpatient care as part of a clinical research study, and mental health care. This doesn’t include private-duty nursing or a television or telephone in your room. It also doesn’t include a private room unless medically necessary. Inpatient mental health care in a psychiatric hospital is limited to 190 days in a lifetime.
 

·         Skilled Nursing Facility Care: Semi-private room, meals, skilled nursing and rehabilitative services, and other services and supplies (only after a 3-day minimum inpatient hospital stay for a related illness or injury) for up to 100 days in a benefit period. To get care in a skilled nursing facility, you must need skilled care like intravenous injections or physical therapy. Medicare doesn’t cover long-term care or custodial care in this setting. 

 

Jim Bigelow    918-640-4657

www.jimbigelow.com                jim@jimbigelow.com

Coldwell Banker Select

HWA Home Warranties

Ollie the Orange walks your clients through HWA Home Warranty 101
Always Look for the Orange
Home Warranty Company!
www.hwahomewarranty.com
888-492-7359
888-325-5143 (CA only)

Get started using this video:

This 9-minute video can benefit you:

Watch HWA’s fresh, new animated video and learn about your home warranty
painlessly.

It’s not easy to wade through cumbersome brochures, so we commissioned mascot
Ollie the Orange to teach you in 9 easy minutes about the fundamentals of your
HWA home warranty.

• It frees up your time.

• It increases understanding about HWA programs.

The video will educate you on the basics on how to maximize your HWA home
warranty. You will learn about:
• HWA’s Coverage
• HWA’s Guarantee
• Service Providers and Calls
• HWA’s GreenPlus Option
• Kitchen Appliances/Mechanical Systems
• And Much More!
After completing the video, please review either myself Jim Bigelow or HWA for additional information.

Jim Bigelow 918-640-4657
www.jimbigelow.com jim@jimbigelow.com
Coldwell Banker Select

Penny Roth Account Executive
Home Warranty of America
918-845-2556

Oklahoma Fires Claims

Jim Bigelow Bigelow Group Realtors 918-640-4657

www.jimbigelow.com jim@jimbigelow.com

Coldwell Banker Select

John Buchanan Jr.

Country Insurance & Financial Services

918-693-8820

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What is Medicare? PArt 1

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a United States Government-sponsored health insurance program available to people in the following categories:

·         age 65 or older; OR

·         under age 65 with certain disabilities; OR

·         any age with End-Stage Renal Disease
     (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant).

Most people get their coverage through the ORIGINAL MEDICARE PLAN. (Unless you choose otherwise, this is the plan you will be enrolled in.)

 

How It Works

Sign Up for Either Original Medicare  OR  A Medicare Advantage Plan

Original Medicare Plan has four (4) Parts:

Part A: Hospital Insurance helps cover the following:

·         Inpatient Care In Hospitals,

·         Includes Critical Access Hospitals and In-patient Rehabilitation Facilities,

·         Inpatient Stays In A Skilled Nursing Facility
     (not custodial or long-term care),

·         Hospice Care Services,

·         Home Health Care Services,

·         Inpatient Care In A Religious Non-Medical Health Care Institution
     (coverage is related to non-medical, non-religious parts of care).

Part B: Medical Insurance helps cover medically necessary services like:

·         Doctors’ Services,

·         Outpatient Care,

·         Other Medical Services That Part A Doesn’t Cover
      (such as Physical and Occupational Therapists),

·         Some Home Health Care,

·         Some Preventative Services

Part C: Medigap -or- Supplemental Insurance Plans, and

Part D: Prescription Drugs.

Medicare Advantage Plans are a package providing the same services as the Original with added services and options.

As an alternative to the Original Medicare Program, Medicare Advantage Plans are a package providing the same services as the Original with added services and options.

 

Jim Bigelow    918-640-4657

www.jimbigelow.com                jim@jimbigelow.com

Coldwell Banker Select

 

 

 

Easy Spring Cleaning

Easy Spring CleaningIf you don’t have time for a huge ordeal, here are some tips from the Good Housekeeping Institute on how to tackle the important stuff. Behind the big stuff This is a great time to move the beds, sofas and other heavy furniture that you typically don’t bother with. Going one side at a time, pull the item away from the wall. Clean behind it and use the appropriate attachment on your vacuum to get the floor and baseboards. Push it back in, and pull out the other side to do the same.Get no-streak windows Definitely consider getting a microfiber cloth. They are relatively inexpensive and significantly cut down on elbow grease. Plus they are lint free and leave no streaks. Tackle the bathroom Invest in a cleaning tool with a pivoting head and extendable handle. Use disposable cloths to get behind toilets, shower walls, tubs and more. Don’t forget to get rid of old cosmetics etc. from the medicine cabinet. Get the nooks and crannies With the brush attachment on your vacuum, get the dust on window sills, door frames, heating vents and other often-forgotten-about places. Window Exteriors Get a squeegee for windows, it’s worth the investment. Top to Bottom Clean your areas starting at the top and working to the bottom.          Sincerely, Jim Bigelow

Jim Bigelow Group   Jim Bigelow Email Jim   Phone: (918)481-8357 Cell: (918)640-4657 Fax: (918)481-8360

Visit our website at http://www.jimbigelow.com/

 

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