Serving individuals and families across Virginia

It is usually best to start before you turn 65. Medicare.gov says most people are first eligible for Part A and Part B starting 3 months before the month they turn 65 and ending 3 months after that month.

Some people are enrolled automatically, while others need to sign up themselves. Medicare.gov says it depends in part on whether you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits before you turn 65.

Part A helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Part B helps cover doctor services, outpatient care, durable medical equipment, and many preventive services. Part D helps cover prescription drugs. Medigap is extra private insurance that can help pay your share of costs in Original Medicare.

Original Medicare includes Part A and Part B, and you can use any doctor or hospital that takes Medicare anywhere in the U.S. Medicare Advantage is a Medicare-approved private plan alternative that provides Part A and Part B, usually includes drug coverage, may use provider networks, and may require prior authorization for some services.

Yes, but only at certain times. Medicare.gov lists enrollment periods such as the Initial Enrollment Period, the yearly Open Enrollment Period from October 15 through December 7, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 through March 31 for people already in a Medicare Advantage plan, and Special Enrollment Periods for certain qualifying life events.

Medicare.gov lets people compare plans available in their area. Medicare also says people can call 1-800-MEDICARE, and local SHIPs offer free personalized counseling and are not connected to insurance companies or health plans.