Medicare in plain language
| Part | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Part A | Hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. |
| Part B | Doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment. |
| Part C (Medicare Advantage) | Private plans that provide Part A and Part B coverage, often with drug coverage and extra benefits. |
| Part D | Prescription drug coverage from private plans approved by Medicare. |
Your turning-65 checklist
- Mark your Initial Enrollment Period: 3 months before your 65th birthday month through 3 months after.
- Decide whether to sign up for Part A and Part B now, or if you can delay because of employer coverage.
- Gather your doctors, prescriptions, and pharmacy.
- Compare Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement options with Kesha.
- Choose a Part D plan if your coverage doesn't include drugs.
- Review your plan every fall during Open Enrollment.
Still working at 65?
If you or your spouse have health coverage from current employment, you may be able to delay Part B without a penalty. The rules depend on employer size and coverage type, so Kesha reviews your situation before you decide.
Common mistakes Kesha helps you avoid
- Missing your enrollment window and paying a lifetime late penalty
- Assuming Medicare covers dental, vision, and hearing
- Choosing a plan without checking your doctors and medications
- Missing the Medigap Open Enrollment Period
Frequently asked questions about Turning 65
When should I start planning for Medicare?
About 3 to 6 months before your 65th birthday is a good time to start. Your Initial Enrollment Period begins 3 months before your birthday month.
Am I automatically enrolled in Medicare at 65?
If you already get Social Security benefits, you are usually enrolled in Part A and Part B automatically. If not, you need to sign up through Social Security.
Can I keep my employer coverage and have Medicare?
Often, yes. How the two work together depends on the size of the employer and the coverage. Kesha can help you sort it out.
Plan availability, benefits, and costs vary by county and company. Kesha will confirm what is available at your ZIP code. For information on all of your options, contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE.
