Getting Started

Turning 65 means it’s time to understand your Medicare options. We’ll walk you through the basics of how Medicare works, what it covers, and what steps you need to take. Our goal is to make getting started easy, clear, and worry-free.

Turning 65? Here’s How to Get Started with Medicare the Right Way

Turning 65 is a major milestone — and one that comes with important decisions about your health coverage. If you're like many Americans, Medicare can feel like a confusing alphabet soup: Part A, Part B, Part C, Part D. But don’t worry. This guide breaks it all down in plain English so you can feel confident about what Medicare is, how it works, and what steps you need to take to get started.

What Is Medicare?

Medicare is the federal health insurance program primarily for people age 65 and older. It helps cover many healthcare costs, but it's not one-size-fits-all. Think of Medicare like a menu — there are several parts and options, and the goal is to build the right combination for your personal health needs and budget.

The Four Parts of Medicare, Explained Simply

Part A is hospital insurance. It helps cover inpatient stays in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and some home health care. Most people don’t pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working.

Part B is medical insurance. This helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, lab tests, and medical equipment. Part B does have a monthly premium, which is based on your income.

Part D is prescription drug coverage. This is optional, standalone coverage that helps pay for medications. You can add a Part D plan if you have Original Medicare.

Part C is Medicare Advantage. This is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B) offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. Most plans also include drug coverage and may offer extra benefits like dental or vision.

When and How to Enroll in Medicare

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window: it starts three months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends three months after. Enrolling on time helps you avoid penalties and coverage gaps.

If you're already receiving Social Security, you’ll likely be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B. If not, you can sign up through the Social Security Administration, either online, by phone, or in person.

Choosing the Right Medicare Path

After enrolling in Parts A and B, you have two primary directions:

One option is Original Medicare. This is the traditional route. You can add a standalone Part D plan for medications and a Medicare Supplement (also called Medigap) policy to help pay for out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copays.

The other option is Medicare Advantage. These plans bundle Parts A, B, and often D into one convenient plan. They’re offered by private insurers, have provider networks, and often include additional benefits like gym memberships or dental care.

Think of Original Medicare like ordering individual items off a menu. Medicare Advantage is more like choosing a combo meal — it simplifies your choices into one package.

What Will It Cost?

While many think Medicare is free, the truth is some parts have costs. Part A is usually premium-free, but Part B comes with a monthly premium. Part D and Medicare Advantage plans have varying premiums, deductibles, and copays depending on the plan you choose. Medicare Supplement plans also have their own monthly premiums.

This is why it's important to review all your options and choose what best fits your health needs and budget.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the biggest mistakes is missing your enrollment window, which can lead to penalties that last a lifetime. Others include assuming Medicare covers everything or that all plans are the same. Medicare is not one-size-fits-all, and the plan that works for your neighbor might not be right for you.

Every year, plans can change, and so can your health. It pays to review your coverage annually and get guidance from someone who understands how it all works.

Ready to Make Medicare Simple?

Don’t try to figure it all out on your own. Licensed Medicare agents Jim Cable and Steve Milton are here to help. With years of experience and a no-pressure approach, they’ll walk you through your options and help you find the right plan for your needs.

Whether you’re just getting started or already exploring your choices, Jim and Steve can help you:

Understand your Medicare options in simple terms
Compare plans side-by-side
Avoid costly mistakes and penalties
Get enrolled with confidence

Take the First Step Today

Medicare doesn’t have to be confusing. With the right guidance, you can make smart, confident decisions about your coverage.

Reach out today to schedule your free Medicare consultation with Jim Cable or Steve Milton. There’s no obligation, just clear, helpful advice from local agents who care.

Contact us now to get started and take the stress out of Medicare.

FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When should I sign up for Medicare?

Most people sign up when they turn 65. Your Initial Enrollment Period lasts for 7 months — 3 months before your birthday month, your birthday month, and 3 months after.

Q: What happens if I miss my Medicare enrollment window?

If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period, you may face late penalties and gaps in coverage. The good news is, we can review if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Q: What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement?

Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare that may include extra benefits. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works alongside Original Medicare to help pay out-of-pocket costs.

Q: Do I need a prescription drug plan?

Yes, unless you already have creditable drug coverage. Medicare Part D helps cover prescription costs — and enrolling on time avoids late penalties.

Q: Will I be able to keep my doctor?

That depends on the type of plan you choose. Some plans have networks, while others let you see any provider who accepts Medicare. We’ll help you find a plan that works with your preferred doctors.

Q: Can I change my Medicare plan later?

Yes — you can review and switch plans during the Annual Enrollment Period each fall, or in certain cases with a Special Enrollment Period.

We provide reliable Medicare guidance designed to give you peace of mind. At Senior Health Insurance, we help secure your future—so you can focus on what truly matters.