Learn the Basics First

Before diving in, let’s get grounded in the essentials of Medicare. Understanding these basics today will make navigating your options more confident and less stressful.

✅ What Is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for the following:

• People turning 65
• Younger individuals with certain disabilities
• People with End‑Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

🔗 Get started with Medicare – Medicare.gov

🅰️ Part A – Hospital Insurance

Helps cover inpatient hospital stays, hospice, skilled nursing, and some home health care. Most people get it for free if they (or their spouse) worked for 10+ years.

🔗 Parts of Medicare – Medicare.gov

🅱️ Part B – Medical Insurance

Covers outpatient care, doctor visits, lab tests, and preventive services. You’ll pay a monthly premium.

🔗 Ready to sign up for Part A & B – Medicare.gov

🌐 Part C / Medicare Advantage

These private plans bundle Parts A + B (and often D), and may include extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs.

🔗 Compare Original vs Medicare Advantage – Medicare.gov

💊 Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage

Covers the cost of prescription drugs. Available through standalone plans or included in most Medicare Advantage plans.

📌 Why Knowing This Matters

• Each part has different enrollment periods and costs.
• If you wait too long, you might pay late‑enrollment penalties.
• Choosing the right path early can save you money and headaches later.

🔎 What You Should Do Next

• Check when your **Initial Enrollment Period** begins.
• Research whether to go with **Original Medicare + Part D + Medigap**, or a **Medicare Advantage** plan.
• Use the **Find Plans** tool on Medicare.gov once your eligibility starts.

🔗 Find Plans tool – Medicare.gov

Need Personal Help?

Tap **“Contact Us”** or **“Book Now”** to connect with a licensed agent. We’ll walk you through your options clearly and confidently.

This content is educational only and not affiliated with the U.S. government or CMS.