Common Medicare questions

Straight answers to common Medicare questions

Plain-language answers to common Medicare questions — how the parts work, when to enroll, and what to check before you choose. Nothing to buy; no plan pushed on you.

• What should I do first when I am turning 65 and new to Medicare?
• Is Medigap or Medicare Advantage better for someone turning 65?
• How is Medicare Advantage different from Original Medicare?
• When can I enroll in Medicare for the first time?
• What does Medicare Part A cover?
• What does Medicare Part B cover?
• What is Medicare Part D drug coverage?
• Do I need Part D if I do not take prescriptions?
• What Medicare late enrollment penalties should I avoid?
• What can I change during Medicare Annual Enrollment Period?
• What is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?
• Can I change Medicare plans if I move?
• Can I keep my doctor on Medicare Advantage?
• Is Medicare Advantage good if I travel often?
• What Medicare coverage works for snowbirds?
• Does Medicare cover dental, vision, and hearing?
• What is a Medicare Advantage maximum out-of-pocket limit?
• Are $0-premium Medicare Advantage plans really free?
• Is a PPO or HMO better for Medicare Advantage?
• Do Medicare star ratings matter?
• What is a Medicare drug formulary?
• How should I compare Medicare plans if I take Eliquis?
• How does Medicare cover insulin?
• What is Extra Help for Medicare drug costs?
• What are Medicare Savings Programs?
• What does dual eligible mean in Medicare?
• What is a Medicare Chronic Condition SNP?
• When can I buy Medigap without health questions?
• Can I switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap?
• How are Medicare agents paid?