Turning 65 soon? Or helping a loved one plan for retirement? One of the biggest milestones in this stage of life is signing up for Medicare. But let’s be honest—understanding all the parts, plans, and options can feel like learning a new language.
The good news? You’re not alone—and it’s not as complicated as it seems. At 65+ Insurance Solutions, we specialize in making Medicare simple, and this guide is a great place to start.
So, What Exactly Is Medicare?
Medicare is a government-run health insurance program that helps cover healthcare expenses for:
- People aged 65 or older
- Some younger people with disabilities
- Those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
There are four parts to Medicare, and each one plays a different role in your coverage.
Let’s Break Down the Parts of Medicare
Part A – Hospital Insurance
Think of Part A as your safety net for hospital stays. It helps cover:
- Inpatient hospital care
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Hospice care
- Some home health care
Most people don’t have to pay a premium for Part A, which is a nice bonus.
Part B – Medical Insurance
Part B is what you’ll use for:
- Doctor visits
- Outpatient care
- Preventive services (like flu shots or cancer screenings)
- Medical equipment
Unlike Part A, Part B does come with a monthly premium, but it gives you access to everyday care and check-ups.
Part C – Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies (like us!) and combine Parts A and B—sometimes even Part D. Many also include extra benefits like:
Many Medicare Advantage plans offer:
- Dental, vision, and hearing
- Gym memberships or wellness perks
- Prescription drug coverage
It’s like bundling your coverage into one all-inclusive plan, often with low premiums.
Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage
If you take medications regularly, this is a must. Part D helps pay for prescription drugs, whether you’re on Original Medicare or have a Medicare Advantage plan that doesn’t include drug coverage.
What About Medigap?
Even with Medicare, there are still some costs that can sneak up on you—like deductibles and coinsurance. Medigap, or Medicare Supplement Insurance, is designed to fill those “gaps.” It can provide peace of mind if you want fewer surprise expenses.
When Should You Enroll?
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) lasts for 7 months:
- Starts 3 months before your 65th birthday
- Ends 3 months after the month you turn 65
Don’t miss it—enrolling late could mean penalties and delays.
How Do You Pick the Right Plan?
Here’s what to think about:
- Your monthly budget
- What doctors or hospitals you want to keep
- Whether you need extra benefits like dental or vision
- What medications you take
Comparing plans can feel overwhelming, which is why we’re here to help.
Ready to Make Medicare Easy?
We’ve helped countless seniors just like you make the right choice—and we can do the same for you. Whether you’re brand new to Medicare or want to switch plans, 65+ Insurance solutions is here to guide you.
👉 Schedule your free consultation today and let’s make Medicare work for you.
