Learn before, during and after your consultation
Medicare Basics
Start here, then bring your questions. You do not need to finish this guide or understand every term before speaking with us.
Request a consultation1. Know the building blocks
Part A helps with hospital care. Part B helps with medical services, such as doctor visits and outpatient care. Part D helps with prescription drug costs.
Original Medicare combines A and B. You can add a separate drug plan and may buy Medigap to help with your share of covered costs.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is a private-plan alternative that includes A and B and usually drug coverage. Provider networks and approval requirements may apply. Medigap works with Original Medicare, not Medicare Advantage.
Source: Medicare.gov - Parts of Medicare2. Compare more than the monthly price
A premium is a regular payment for coverage. A deductible is an amount you pay before coverage starts paying for certain services. Copayments are fixed amounts; coinsurance is a percentage.
A plan with a $0 premium can still have other costs. Medicare Advantage members generally keep paying their Part B premium. Compare the services you use, medication costs and the plan's cost limits.
Source: Medicare.gov - Costs3. Ask about your timing
For many people, the first enrollment window surrounds their 65th birthday. Work coverage, disability and other circumstances can change the steps or timing. Ask before delaying enrollment or changing existing coverage.
Tell us about current coverage and any expected retirement or coverage-ending date. We will help identify the questions to resolve for your situation.
Source: Medicare.gov - When can I sign up?Prepare for your consultation
- Write down your top two questions and what matters most to you.
- Have your current coverage information and relevant dates available.
- Prepare your doctor, hospital, medication and preferred pharmacy lists.
- Consider your budget, travel needs and preferred way to learn.
- Tell us what you have reviewed and what still feels unclear.
Keep private identification and medical details out of ordinary email. Ask how to share them through the appropriate process.
After we talk
Keep the recap and next steps. Ask us to explain anything unclear. We will revisit questions as you compare options and after a decision. Reading this guide is not enrollment or permission to submit an application.
Explore the Learning CenterReady to reach out? Continue to intake