Fine Print
Labs

A is hospital. B is doctors and outpatient care. C is Medicare Advantage, a private plan that bundles A and B and often D. D is prescription drugs. That's the whole alphabet.

Medicare Advantage plans are run by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They cover everything Original Medicare covers, and many include drug coverage. Plans and networks change by county, so we look at what's actually available where you live.

Part D covers prescriptions, either as its own plan or built into an Advantage plan. Every plan has its own drug list. The right plan for your neighbor can be the wrong one for you, so we check your actual meds.

Extra Help is a Medicare program for people with limited income and resources that helps with prescription drug coverage. A lot of people who qualify never apply. I can help you apply, and there's no charge for my help.

Some people qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California). The two programs can work together. Think you might qualify? I can help you apply, and there's no charge for my help.

Your Initial Enrollment Period is 7 months: the 3 months before your birthday month, that month, and the 3 after. Miss it and late enrollment penalties may apply. Call before, not after.

Every year from October 15 to December 7, you can switch Advantage plans, switch drug plans, or move between Advantage and Original Medicare. Changes start January 1. Plans can change every year, so it's worth a checkup even if you love yours.

Moving, losing other coverage, and certain other life changes can open a Special Enrollment Period, so you're not always stuck waiting until fall.

Working past 65 or losing employer coverage comes with its own rules and its own enrollment window. Timing matters here, so let's check yours together.