Simply put, shopping for Medicare can seem complicated because there are so many options to choose from. From Original Medicare and Prescription Drug plans to Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans, many are unsure where to even begin. Taking the time to figure it all out can seem overwhelming and time consuming, but that’s where SelectQuote comes in.
We simplify the process by doing all of your coverage and cost comparing for you. We’ll get to know your needs and talk you through your options in hopes of finding the right coverage for you at a price that works with your budget. Below are some tips to help simplify the process even before you get connected with us.
Know the Medicare Basics
Medicare coverage starts with Parts A and B, also known as Original Medicare.
Medicare Part A helps cover most inpatient hospital, skilled nursing home, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers routine doctor visits, including specialists to treat your medical conditions, and covers preventative services, which is meant to prevent illness (like the flu) or to detect at an early stage. As with most other insurances, you still have deductibles, copays and coinsurance in addition to prescription drug cost, but that’s where Parts C and D come in.
Medicare Part C—also known as Medicare Advantage—is an alternative to Original Medicare and often includes additional coverages such as dental, vision, prescription drugs and wellness memberships. Medicare Part D is also known as Medicare Prescription Drug plans and helps cover the cost of medications. It can be purchased as an “add on” to Medicare Part A, B or a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan to give you broader healthcare coverage and potentially save you money.
Know When You’re Eligible for Medicare
Whether it’s enrolling for the first time or changing your current plan, it’s important to know the different enrollment periods and which apply to you. You have Medicare Eligibility if one or more of the following apply to you:
- You’re 65 or turning 65 soon – Turning 65 is the standard age denoting your eligibility for Medicare. The seven-month period surrounding your 65th birthday is your Initial Enrollment Period.
- You’ve been diagnosed with ESRD or ALS – For end-stage renal disease (ESRD), Medicare benefits begin as soon as the first day following three months of regular dialysis or kidney transplant. Under certain conditions, Medicare coverage might be able to start on the first month of dialysis. For Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Medicare benefits can begin at the same time you start collecting Social Security Disability benefits.
- You’re younger than 65, but have a qualifying disability – If you’ve been receiving Social Security Disability for 24 months, you also qualify for Medicare coverage. You should receive a Medicare card in the mail when the required time period has passed.
SelectQuote Can Make Understanding Your Medicare Options Simple
It pays off in the long run to familiarize yourself with Original Medicare, additional coverages, alternative coverages and enrollment periods. For all this, though, SelectQuote can help. We can help you save time and potentially money by navigating Medicare and explaining your options along the way. In just minutes, we can compare coverage options available in your area and there’s no obligation to enroll.
