CRACKING THE CODE Understanding Medicare Parts C and D

Chapter 5: Navigating Medicare Enrollment

Enrolling in Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans can be done through various channels: How to Enroll in Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans

Online: Beneficiaries can enroll in Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans online through the Medicare website (medicare.gov) or the website of the plan they wish to enroll in.

By Phone: Enrollment can

In Person: Some beneficiaries may prefer to enroll in person by visiting a local Social Security office or attending a Medicare enrollment

also be completed over the phone by calling Medicare's toll-free number (1-800-MEDICARE) or the plan's customer service line.

event in their community.

When enrolling in Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plans, beneficiaries should have their Medicare card, Social Security number, and any additional documentation required by the plan ready to ensure a smooth enrollment process. Understand Your Eligibility: You must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B to join a Medicare Advantage plan. You can enroll in Part A and/or Part B during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which usually starts three months before your 65th birthday month and lasts for seven months.

Alternatively, you can enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7 each year. Research Available Plans: Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare. These plans provide all the benefits of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and often include additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage (Part D), dental, vision, and hearing coverage, and sometimes even fitness programs. Research the plans available in your area to find one that suits your healthcare needs and budget.

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