Medicare Coverage
Medicare Made Simple
No jargon. No pressure. Just clear answers and the right plan for your life.
What Is Medicare?
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, and for some younger people with disabilities. It's divided into parts — and understanding what each part covers (and what it doesn't) is the first step to making a smart decision.
The good news: you don't have to figure it out alone. Jennifer shops every carrier she works with and lays out your options side by side — in plain dollars, plain English — until you feel completely confident in your choice.
Understanding the Parts of Medicare
Part A
Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Most people don't pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
Part B
Medical Insurance
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment. Part B has a monthly premium (set by the government each year) and an annual deductible.
Part C
Medicare Advantage
An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies. Most plans include Part D drug coverage and often add dental, vision, and hearing benefits. Costs and coverage vary by plan and location.
Part D
Prescription Drug Coverage
Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. Available as a standalone plan (with Original Medicare) or bundled into a Medicare Advantage plan. Premiums, deductibles, and covered drugs vary by plan.
What About Medigap (Medicare Supplement)?
Original Medicare covers a lot — but not everything. Medigap plans are sold by private insurers to help pay the costs Original Medicare leaves behind: copays, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Unlike Medicare Advantage, Medigap works alongside Original Medicare rather than replacing it. You keep your freedom to see any doctor who accepts Medicare, anywhere in the country.
When Can You Enroll?
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
A 7-month window that starts 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after. This is your first and most important window — missing it can mean late-enrollment penalties.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
October 15 – December 7 each year. During AEP you can switch Medicare Advantage plans, switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare, or change your Part D drug plan. Changes take effect January 1.
Open Enrollment Period (OEP)
January 1 – March 31 each year. If you're already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to a different Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)
Triggered by qualifying life events — like losing employer coverage, moving out of your plan's service area, or qualifying for Extra Help. Jennifer will make sure you never miss a window that applies to you.
How Jennifer Helps
Not sure which Medicare plan is right for you?
Call Jennifer for a free, no-pressure review of your options. She'll compare every plan available in your area and help you choose with confidence.
We are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Jennifer Boehm is a licensed insurance agent. Guardian Heart Insurance is an independent agency. Plans and availability vary by location. This is not a complete description of benefits. Contact us for costs and complete details.