About Medicare
How does Medicare work?
All Medicare eligible individuals begin with Original Medicare, which consists of Part A and Part B.
Most individuals who are approaching age 65 must enroll in some form of Medicare coverage in order to avoid incurring significant out-of-pocket expenses.
Individuals who are receiving Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits will be automatically enrolled in Original Medicare.
When considering which Medicare plan will meet your unique needs, it’s important to understand the different Parts of Medicare and how each Part works together.
Original Medicare options
Medicare Part A
known as “hospital insurance”
What’s covered:
- Inpatient care in a hospital
- Skilled nursing facility care
- Hospice care
- Home healthcare
Medicare Part B
known as “medical insurance”
What’s covered:
- Doctor visits
- Medically necessary services
- Outpatient services
- Preventive care
It is important to note that Original Medicare – Parts A and B – has no limits on out-of-pocket expenses, however, by enrolling in a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) you may be able to limit your maximum out-of-pocket expenses.
Additional plans offered through private insurers
known as “Part C” or “MA Plans”
known as “Medicare drug coverage”
known as “Medigap”
Get a free consultation with an experienced licensed agent to discuss
which Medicare plan meets your individual needs.
Get a free consultation with an experienced licensed agent to discuss which Medicare plan meets your individual needs.
How do I enroll?
If you are currently enrolled in Part A and want to enroll in Part B, you will need to complete an Application for Enrollment in Medicare Part B form (CMS-40B). Download the form here.
Contact us to discuss your options and enroll
in additional plans beyond Original Medicare.
Contact us to discuss your options and enroll in additional plans beyond Original Medicare.
Frequently asked questions
When do I enroll in Medicare?
Upon approaching eligibility for Medicare at age 65, you can enroll in a Medicare Plan three months before, the month of, or three months after your Medicare entitlement date. For Supplement Plans, the enrollment period lasts five months after your entitlement date.
Upon becoming eligible for Medicare because you have received 24 months of SSDI benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B.