Medicare Plans

How Does Medicare Work

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Who Is Eligible for Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program available to eligible individuals throughout the United States, including those living in Tampa and throughout Florida.

You may qualify for Medicare if you are:

• A U.S. citizen age 65 or older

• A lawful permanent resident age 65 or older who has lived continuously in the United States for at least 5 years and meets applicable Medicare eligibility requirements

• Under age 65 and eligible for Medicare because of certain disabilities or qualifying medical conditions

Some individuals are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance), while others will need to enroll themselves through Social Security.

Once enrolled in Medicare, you may have additional coverage options, including Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D), and Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap).

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What Does Each Part of Medicare Cover?

Understanding the different parts of Medicare can help you choose the coverage that best fits your needs.

1. Medicare Part A – Hospital Insurance
   Helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and certain home health care services.

2. Medicare Part B – Medical Insurance
   Helps cover services from doctors and other healthcare providers, outpatient care, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and certain home health care services.

3. Medicare Part C – Medicare Advantage
   Medicare Advantage plans are offered by Medicare-approved private insurance companies. They provide your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits, and many plans also include additional benefits and prescription drug coverage.

4. Medicare Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage
   Helps cover the cost of prescription medications. Part D coverage is offered through Medicare-approved private insurance companies.

Turning 65 Soon? Let Us Help You Understand Your Medicare Options

Medicare can feel complicated, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Understanding when to enroll and what coverage options are available can help you make an informed decision.

Important things to know:

1. You may be enrolled automatically—or you may need to sign up.
   If you're approaching age 65 and aren't already receiving Social Security benefits, you may need to enroll in Medicare yourself.

2. There are specific times when you can enroll or make changes to your Medicare coverage.
   Missing certain enrollment periods may affect when your coverage begins.

3. Enrolling at the right time is important.
   Depending on your circumstances, delaying Medicare Part B or Part D could result in a late-enrollment penalty. Some people with qualifying coverage, such as certain employer-sponsored coverage, may be able to delay enrollment without a penalty.

4. You have choices in how you receive your Medicare coverage.
   You can choose Original Medicare or receive your Medicare benefits through a Medicare Advantage plan offered by a private insurance company.

5. Your Medicare needs are personal.
   Costs, doctors, prescription medications, benefits, and available plans can vary. We can help you understand your options and compare plans available in your area.

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