Journey
Let's Get Started.
First things first, let's find your enrollment period.
You’ve Got This. Let’s Get Started.
Before you enroll, you might have a few questions. It's a lot to take in, so we've done our best to give you a breakdown of the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage to help decide which options work best for you.
What is Original Medicare?
Original Medicare is your default option provided by the federal government when you retire. You've earned it. It covers inpatient/hospital coverage (Part A) and outpatient/medical coverage (Part B). Additional options can cover out-of-pocket expenses (Medi-Gap) and cover prescription costs (Part D).
- Part A Hospital
- Part B Home
- Medi-GAP Out-of-pocket
- Part D Prescriptions
What is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage is a private provider plan that has all of the essential features of Original Medicare including Part A (inpatient/hospital coverage) and Part B (outpatient/medical coverage). You can also choose to option D (prescription coverage) plus other options not included with Original Medicare like: wellness care, dental, vision, and hearing.
This is your thing. Choose what's best for you.
You have the power to choose the plan that fits your lifestyle and financial goals. A friend's plan might be great for them, but not for you, and the "least expensive plan" might not really be the least expensive plan after out-of-pocket costs. With the right plan you can avoid:
- Financial penalties from the government
- Not being able to see your current doctors
- Missing out on plan features you prefer
- Putting yourself at financial risk without cost caps
Things to think about.
Your health insurance needs are as unique as you. Here are some things to consider:
- Do you qualify for a Medicare Saving Program to cover out-of-pocket expenses?
- Do you see multiple clinicians and specialist for chronic health conditions?
- Will you be traveling the globe or spending months at a time in different locations?
- How important is it to for you to continue to see your current physician?
- Is there a way to avoid excessive co-pays and other out-of-pocket expenses?
- Are there "must have" preventative benefits like gym memberships, health screenings, dental, vision, or hearing?
Okay, so what’s next?
Here’s a breakdown of important enrollment dates to think about depending on your age and your healthcare needs. Don’t worry if you don’t speak the language of acronym.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) Three months prior to, the month of, and three months following your 65th birthday. Don’t forget that you must enroll in Medicare Part B first.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) For a Jan. 1 effective date, be sure to enroll between Oct. 15 to Dec. 7
Annual Disenrollment Period (ADP) Jan. 1 to Feb.14 to change from a Part C Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare and a Part D Rx Drug Plan.
Special Election Period (SEP) There might be times where your situation or needs change. Maybe you’ve moved to a new service area or your employer group coverage has gone away.
The Special Election period is also your one time opportunity to change back to a Medigap policy within the first 12 months of your first enrollment in a Medicare Advantage Plan.
Knowledge is power. Questions are no problem.
If you have any questions or need help with enrollment, contact an American Senior Resources Medicare Specialist for a free consultation. You’ll need your current medical and prescription records. If you need to think about it, no problem. We’re here to help whenever.