Medicare is the federal health insurance program primarily designed for people aged 65 and older, though it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities.

Think of Medicare as your gateway to comprehensive healthcare coverage that provides essential medical services, prescription drug coverage, and additional benefits that can significantly impact your health and financial well-being.

Part A (Hospital Insurance):
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home healthcare services. Most people receive Part A premium-free if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working.

Part B (Medical Insurance):
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. Part B requires a monthly premium that most people pay directly from their Social Security benefits.

Part C (Medicare Advantage):
An alternative way to receive Medicare benefits through private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans often include prescription drug coverage and additional benefits like dental, vision, or wellness programs.

Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage):
Provides coverage for prescription medications through private insurance plans. You can add Part D to Original Medicare or choose a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):
Your first opportunity to enroll begins three months before your 65th birthday and extends three months after. Missing this window can result in late enrollment penalties.

Annual Open Enrollment:
From October 15 to December 7 each year, you can switch Medicare plans, add or drop coverage, and make changes that take effect January 1st.

Special Enrollment Periods:
Certain life events, such as moving or losing other health coverage, may qualify you for special enrollment opportunities outside the standard periods.

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage:
You’ll need to decide between traditional Medicare (Parts A and B) with the option to add supplemental coverage, or Medicare Advantage plans that bundle everything together.

Supplement Insurance (Medigap):
If you choose Original Medicare, you may want to consider Medigap policies to help cover costs that Medicare doesn’t pay, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.

Prescription Drug Coverage:
Whether through a standalone Part D plan or included in Medicare Advantage, ensuring adequate prescription coverage is crucial for managing medication costs.

•  Understanding what services are covered and what you’ll pay out-of-pocket.
•  Choosing between different plan types and insurance companies.
•  Ensuring your doctors and hospitals accept your chosen plan.
•  Managing prescription drug costs and coverage gaps.
• Avoiding late enrollment penalties
• Coordinating Medicare with other insurance you might have.

Medicare decisions are some of the most important healthcare and financial choices you’ll make. The wrong plan can mean higher costs, limited access to preferred doctors, or inadequate prescription coverage. The right plan can provide peace of mind, comprehensive coverage, and significant savings.

Each person’s situation is unique—your health needs, budget, preferred doctors, and prescription medications all influence which Medicare options work best for you. What works perfectly for your neighbor might not be the right choice for your circumstances.

Whether you’re new to Medicare or looking to optimize your current coverage, professional guidance can help you:
•  Understand your coverage options and costs.
•  Compare plans available in your area.
•  Ensure your doctors and medications are covered.
•  Avoid costly enrollment mistakes and penalties.
• Navigate Medicare’s rules and regulations with confidence.

Licensed Agent Trina Fonville specializes in helping individuals understand and navigate their Medicare choices. With personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs and circumstances, she can help you make confident decisions about your healthcare coverage.

Don’t leave your healthcare coverage to chance. Get the expert guidance you need to make informed Medicare decisions that protect both your health and your wallet.

Contact Licensed Agent Trina Fonville today.
Phone: (704) 213-6225