Medicare, without the mailbox full of brochures.

The four parts, in plain English

Medicare is split into parts, and the names do a poor job of explaining themselves. Here is what each one actually does.

• Part A covers hospital stays. Most people pay no premium because they paid in while working.
• Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care and equipment. It has a monthly premium.
• Part C is Medicare Advantage. A private plan that bundles A and B, usually adds drug coverage, and often dental or vision.
• Part D is prescription drug coverage, sold as a standalone plan or built into an Advantage plan.

Medicare Advantage or Medigap?

This is the real decision, and there is no universally correct answer. Advantage plans typically cost less up front, use networks, and bundle extras. Medigap supplements pay the gaps in Original Medicare, cost more monthly, and let you see any provider that accepts Medicare. Which one fits depends on your health, your doctors, your prescriptions and how much predictability you want. That is exactly the conversation we have on the call.

When you can enroll

Medicare has specific windows, and missing one can mean a late penalty for life.

• Initial Enrollment Period: the seven months around your 65th birthday, starting three months before your birthday month.
• Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 through December 7 each year. Changes take effect January 1.
• Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: January 1 through March 31, if you are already in an Advantage plan and want to switch.
• Special Enrollment Periods: triggered by life events like retiring, moving, or losing employer coverage.