Medicare: What You Need to Know

There are 2 ways to get Medicare coverage:

Original Medicare is Hospital (Part A) and Medical (Part B). If you need drug coverage you can buy a drug plan (Part D). You can also add Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap). This helps pay personal costs.

Medicare Advantage Plan is a blended plan. It includes Part A, Part B, and Part D. Most plans also have vision, hearing, and dental coverage.  

Medicare open enrollment is a time when you can look over your coverage. It is important to look at your Medicare plan every year, as it can change year to year. During Medicare open enrollment you can:

• Change Medicare Advantage plans.
• Change from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare.
• Change from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage.
• Join a Medicare Part D plan.
• Change from one Part D plan to another.
• Cancel Medicare Part D.

Medicare open enrollment begins October 15 and ends on December 7. The changes to your plan will take place on January 1 the following year.

You can go to www.medicare.gov to find the right plan for you. You can also speak to your local insurance agent.