New to Medicare
So you decide to go on to Medicare, what’s next?
You will need to reach out to Social Security to enroll in Medicare Part A and/or Part B (Original Medicare). If you are already receiving your Social Security benefits, you should get your Medicare card in the mail three months before your 65th birthday. If you did not receive it, call the Social Security office at 800-772-1213. If you have already turned 65 and opted to wait until retirement to enroll in your Medicare Part B coverage. You will need to reach out to Social Security at https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare
The only parts of Medicare you need to enroll in at the Social Security office are Medicare Part A and Part B.
What is Medicare Part A?
Medicare Part A, Hospital Insurance, helps cover:
- Inpatient Care in Hospitals
- Skilled Nursing Facility Care*
- Hospice Care
- Home Health Care
*Skilled nursing care and therapy services provided on a daily basis, in a skilled nursing facility. Examples of skilled nursing facility care include physical therapy or intravenous injections that can only be given by a registered nurse or doctor.
What is Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part B, Medical Insurance, helps cover:
- Services from doctors and other health care providers
- Outpatient Care
- Home Health Care
- Durable Medical Equipment (like wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, and other equipment)
- Many Preventive Services (like screenings, shots, or vaccines, and yearly “Wellness” visits)
You should work with a licensed insurance agent to pick a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) or Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C). If enrolling in a Medicare Advantage Plan ask your agent if you will need a stand-alone Prescription Drug Plan (Part D)
Medicare is a complex program.
Use this checklist to help you stay on top of enrollment and make the process easier.
We Know Medicare, so you don’t have to.
