Mount Pleasant Magazine Nov/Dec 2019

35 www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.BestOfMP.com | www.ReadMPM.com feature C onsider it a birthday present. Once you turn 65 (actually up to three months before and after that milestone), you can enroll in Medicare, a federal government program that provides health care coverage for people 65 and over. For many who have lived either underinsured or uninsured, being eligible for Medicare is a welcome benefit to older age. But there are many things seniors need to know about Medicare. Probably the most important is the window of opportunity to sign up, which takes place from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. This open enrollment period extends to seniors who are enrolling for the first time and for seniors who need to make unrestricted changes to their coverage options. Getting Medicare late can mean lifetime premium penalties and delays of when coverage can begin. It is important to note that people with certain disabilities under age 65 are also eligible for Medicare. There are different aspects, or ‘parts’ as they are called, of Medicare. Each part, A through D, covers a different benefit. Some require a monthly premium and other overhead costs, while other parts are automatic. It is advised for seniors to learn about which parts are optional, mandatory and what they cover and cost. But, rest assured, there is help! Nicole Stewart, a licensed agent at HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, said, “The best thing to do is to find a broker in your local area to help break it all down for you. They can meet with you and find out what would be the best options for you. It is a free service to use a broker, so it is a win-win. Surround yourself with someone that will do all the legwork.” Stewart said that there are three types of Medicare: Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement and Original Medicare. BY THERESA STRATFORD Welcome to Medicare!