As you approach 65, understanding your healthcare options becomes more important than ever. For many, Medicare is the cornerstone of health coverage, offering a variety of plans to fit different medical needs and budgets. Open enrollment is the time of year when you can make changes to your Medicare plan or sign up for coverage that suits you best. Let’s break down what Medicare is, how it works, and how Hill Physicians Medical Group can help you navigate your choices during this crucial period.
What Is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, but it also covers younger individuals with certain disabilities or serious health conditions, such as End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). There are several parts to Medicare, each covering different aspects of healthcare:
- Medicare Part A helps pay for inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility stays, hospice care, and some home healthcare services. Most people don’t have to pay a premium for this coverage.
- Medicare Part B covers outpatient care, doctor’s visits, preventive services (like vaccines and screenings), and durable medical equipment such as walkers or wheelchairs. Unlike Part A, Part B comes with a monthly premium.
- Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurance companies and bundle together Part A and Part B services, often including extra benefits like vision, dental, and hearing coverage. Many Medicare Advantage plans also include prescription drug coverage (Part D), making them an all-in-one option for comprehensive healthcare.
- Medicare Part D is dedicated to prescription drug coverage and can be added to Original Medicare or included as part of a Medicare Advantage plan.
When Is Medicare Enrollment?
For most people, Medicare enrollment begins three months before your 65th birthday. You’ll have a seven-month window to sign up, but if you miss it, there may be penalties or delayed coverage. If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B.
The annual Medicare Open Enrollment Period, from October 15 to December 7, is your opportunity to make changes to your existing Medicare plan. You can switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, change your Part D prescription drug coverage, or update your plan to better fit your health needs for the upcoming year.
Why Hill Physicians Medical Group?
Hill Physicians Medical Group is the largest Independent Practice Association (IPA) in Northern California, proudly serving 13 counties. If you’re considering a Medicare Advantage plan during open enrollment, Hill Physicians Medical Group partners with trusted insurance providers to offer personalized, high-quality care across a wide network of primary care doctors, specialists, and virtual care options.
Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan with Hill Physicians gives you access to more than just routine medical care. You’ll also benefit from wellness programs, preventative services, and a seamless care experience designed to keep you healthy and active as you age.
How to Choose the Right Medicare Plan
Making sense of all the Medicare options can be confusing, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our licensed Medicare agents are available to help you navigate your choices and find a plan that meets your needs. Whether it’s understanding the benefits of Medicare Advantage or comparing different plans based on your budget and health conditions, Hill Physicians Medical Group can guide you through the process.
Hill Physicians Medical Group invites you to attend our licensed Medicare agent led events and webinars if you are interested in learning more — there is no obligation to enroll.
Take Action During Open Enrollment
Open enrollment is the perfect time to review your healthcare coverage and ensure you’re prepared for the year ahead. Whether you’re new to Medicare or considering switching to a Medicare Advantage plan, Hill Physicians Medical Group is here to support you.
Call us at (800)-445-5747 to speak with a trusted Medicare broker or visit Medicare.gov to compare plans.
