Medicare, MediGap & Medicare Advantage
Medicare Doesn’t Have to Be Confusing
Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Part D drug coverage — the options are real, but so is the confusion. I’ll walk you through exactly what each one covers, what it costs, and which fits your situation. No pressure, no jargon.
The Basics, Explained Plainly
Understanding the Parts of Medicare
Medicare isn’t one plan — it’s a system of parts and options. Here’s what each one actually covers.
Part A — Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Most people get this premium-free since they paid Medicare taxes while working.
Part B — Medical Insurance
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and some home health care. Has a monthly premium based on your income.
Part D — Prescription Drugs
Covers prescription medications. Offered through private insurers. Plans vary widely in cost and which drugs they cover — this is where most people overpay without realizing it.
Part C — Medicare Advantage
An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare, offered by private insurers. Often includes Part D drug coverage plus extras like dental, vision, and hearing — usually for a low or $0 premium.
Medigap (Supplement)
Private insurance that fills the “gaps” in Original Medicare — copays, coinsurance, and deductibles. Works alongside Parts A & B, not with Medicare Advantage.
Choosing Between Them
The biggest decision most people face: Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D, or Medicare Advantage (Part C). Both are valid — the right choice depends on your health, budget, and doctors.
The Decision Most People Struggle With
Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap: Side by Side
General comparison for educational purposes. Specific costs and benefits vary by plan, carrier, and location. Let’s review your actual options together.
Don’t Overpay for Medications
Prescription Drug Coverage Matters More Than People Think
Not all Part D plans cover the same medications, and the difference in what you pay can be hundreds of dollars a year for the exact same prescription depending on which plan you pick.
I review your specific medication list against available plans in your area to find the one that actually saves you money — not just the one with the lowest advertised premium.
- We compare your exact medications against plan formularies
- Avoid the late enrollment penalty (it never goes away)
- Check pharmacy networks so your preferred pharmacy is covered
- Review plans annually since formularies change every year
Why Work With a Licensed Agent
Medicare Shopping Shouldn’t Be a Solo Project
It Costs You Nothing
Medicare agents are paid by the insurance carriers, not by you. Working with me costs exactly the same as enrolling yourself — except you get expert guidance for free.
We Compare Every Option
Instead of guessing between dozens of plans, I run comparisons across available carriers in your area to find what actually fits your health needs and budget.
Annual Review, Every Year
Plans change. Premiums change. Drug formularies change. I review your coverage every Annual Enrollment Period to make sure you’re still in the best plan for you.
Common Questions
Medicare FAQs
When should I sign up for Medicare?
Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window: 3 months before your 65th birthday month, your birthday month, and 3 months after. Missing this window can mean lifetime penalties on Part B and Part D — so timing matters.
I'm still working at 65 — do I need to enroll?
It depends on your employer's plan size and coverage. Some people delay Part B without penalty if they have qualifying employer coverage. This is one of the most common mistakes I help people avoid — let's review your specific situation.
Can I switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap later?
You can switch, but Medigap plans can require medical underwriting outside of specific protected periods — meaning you could be denied or charged more based on health conditions. This is why the initial decision matters so much.
What does it cost to work with you as my Medicare agent?
Nothing. Medicare agents are compensated by insurance carriers at no cost to you. Your premium is the same whether you enroll directly or through an agent — so there's no downside to getting expert help.
Do you help with both Medicare and other coverage, like life insurance?
Yes — many of my Medicare clients also work with me on final expense life insurance, since funeral and end-of-life costs aren't covered by Medicare at all. We can talk through your full picture, not just one piece.
Confused About Your Medicare Options?
Let’s Find the Right Coverage Together
A free Medicare review takes about 20 minutes. We’ll go through your current coverage, your medications, your doctors, and your budget — then I’ll show you the options that actually fit. No pressure, no obligation.