New to Medicare — Where Do I Start?

Medicare can seem complicated at first because there are several parts, choices and decisions. You don’t have to understand everything at once. Start with the basics, understand the coverage paths available to you, and then decide which questions matter most for your situation.

Start With the Foundation

Original Medicare begins with Part A and Part B. Part A generally helps cover inpatient hospital care, while Part B generally helps cover physician services, outpatient care and other medically necessary services.

Understand the Paths

Once you understand Parts A and B, learn how Medicare coverage can be structured. Some people receive their benefits through Original Medicare while others choose Medicare Advantage.

Choose Your Direction

Think about the things that matter in your situation: doctors, medications, expected use, and costs. The objective is to understand your choices to make an informed decision.

Things Worth Knowing

Medicare has different parts. Part A and Part B form Original Medicare; Part C refers to Medicare Advantage, and Part D provides prescription drug coverage.
Medicare does not automatically pay 100% of every healthcare expense. Deductibles, coinsurance, copayments and other out-of-pocket costs may apply.
Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage are different ways of receiving Medicare-covered services.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance works with Original Medicare; it does not work with Medicare Advantage.
Prescription drug coverage deserves separate attention. Consider your medications, formulary coverage and pharmacy access.
Enrollment timing can matter. Missing certain enrollment opportunities can potentially result in delayed coverage or late-enrollment penalties.
Medicare choices can be reviewed as circumstances and available coverage change, but different enrollment rules and time periods may apply.

Still Have Questions?

Whether you need a full education on Medicare 101 or just a quick direction check, John is here to help you navigate.