Medicare Plans — 26 Healthcare

Getting Started

Turning 65? Here's What You Need to Know

Medicare enrollment has specific windows — missing them can result in penalties or gaps in coverage. I help you get it right the first time.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): You have a 7-month window — starting 3 months before the month you turn 65, the month you turn 65, and 3 months after. Enrolling on time helps you avoid late-enrollment penalties.

Initial Enrollment Period

The 7-month window around your 65th birthday. This is your primary opportunity to enroll in Medicare Parts A and B without penalty.

Special Enrollment Period

Still working at 65 and covered by employer insurance? You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period when that coverage ends.

Annual Enrollment Period

October 15 – December 7 each year. Already on Medicare? This is your window to change plans for the following year.

Plan Types

Your Medicare Coverage Options

Medicare isn't one-size-fits-all. Here's a clear breakdown of your choices — and how I help you compare them.

Original Medicare: Parts A & B

The foundation of Medicare. Part A covers hospital stays; Part B covers outpatient services and doctor visits. Original Medicare alone leaves gaps — most people add a supplement or Advantage plan.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurers. Often includes dental, vision, and drug coverage. Typically has network restrictions (HMO or PPO).

Often $0 or low monthly premium
Usually includes Part D drug coverage
May include dental, vision, hearing
Network-based (check your doctors)

Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

Fills the cost-sharing gaps in Original Medicare — covering deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Use any doctor who accepts Medicare, nationwide.

No network restrictions — see any Medicare doctor
Predictable out-of-pocket costs
Standardized plans (A, B, C, D, F, G, N…)
Separate Part D plan needed for drugs

Part D — Prescription Drug Plans

Standalone drug coverage used alongside Original Medicare + Medigap. Choosing the wrong plan can mean significantly higher drug costs — I'll run a formulary check for your specific medications.

Compare formularies for your exact medications
Check preferred pharmacy networks
Late enrollment penalty if you delay
Annual review recommended at AEP

Note: Medicare plan availability varies by zip code and changes annually. I'll compare current, local options for your specific situation — not generic national estimates.

Why Use a Broker

I Do the Comparison Work for You

There are dozens of Medicare plans available in any given area. Comparing premiums, deductibles, formularies, provider networks, and star ratings on your own is overwhelming.

As an independent broker, I'm appointed with multiple carriers — so I can objectively compare them and recommend the plan that actually fits your needs. And because carriers pay my commission, there's no cost to you.

Compare multiple carriers side by side
Check that your doctors are in-network
Run your medication list against plan formularies
Review your plan annually to ensure it's still the best fit
Help you navigate billing issues and coverage questions

Start Your Free Medicare Review

FAQ

Medicare Questions, Answered

Most people should enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period — the 7 months centered around their 65th birthday. If you have employer coverage through active employment, you may be able to delay without penalty. I can review your specific situation to determine the right timing.

Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with a bundled plan from a private insurer — often with lower premiums but network restrictions. Medigap supplements Original Medicare by paying the gaps (deductibles and coinsurance), giving you freedom to see any Medicare-accepting doctor nationwide. The right choice depends on your health, budget, and how often you travel or see specialists.

No. My services are completely free to you. Insurance carriers pay brokers a commission that is built into the plan pricing — it's the same price whether you enroll through a broker, directly with the carrier, or through a government website.

Yes. The Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) lets you change Medicare Advantage or Part D plans each year, with changes effective January 1. There is also a Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 – March 31. Medigap changes may require medical underwriting outside of your initial enrollment window.

If you're actively employed and covered by an employer group health plan, you may be able to delay Medicare enrollment without penalty. However, rules vary depending on your employer size. I strongly recommend reviewing your specific situation before delaying, as mistakes can result in permanent late-enrollment penalties.

Understand Your Medicare Options