Advantage plans are not Supplements
Many people sign up for Advantage Plans thinking they are Supplements. They are not.
5 min read · Moreno Insurance Agency, San Antonio
The four choices, once
Original Medicare includes Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). You can go to any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare, but you are responsible for deductibles and co-insurance.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They combine your Part A and B coverage into a single plan, and often include Part D and other benefits like dental and vision.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans help cover expenses that Original Medicare does not, such as co-payments, co-insurance, and deductibles.
Part D helps pay for prescription medications. It can be purchased separately if you have Original Medicare or it may be included in a Medicare Advantage plan.
When you are allowed to enrol
Assuming you have met the work-related eligibility requirements, you may begin enrollment into Medicare 90 days in advance of the month you turn 65.
Medicare does not have spousal or dependent coverage. Medicare is individual.
What missing the window costs
In addition to having a huge gap in coverage, you will likely face a penalty from Medicare. A Part B penalty can be 10% of your Part B premium for each 12-month period outside of Medicare, and up to 1% of the national average of a Part D plan for each month absent Part D.
And the short answers
Can I keep all my same doctors when I am on Medicare? You usually can. It is important to be sure your doctor accepts Medicare. Some do not.
Does Medicare have dental plans? No. But some Advantage plans offer limited dental coverage.
Should I have both a Medicare Advantage Plan and a Medicare Supplement Plan? No.
Read the full coverage page, or start a quote and we will walk you through it on the phone.