How To Get Ready For Medicare | Fidelity Investments

Medicare Basics - Medicare is not free, with estimated average annual healthcare costs of $6,400 [2] - Unlike employer health insurance, Medicare plans are individual, requiring each spouse or partner to enroll separately [2] - Enrollment should occur three months before turning 65 or when employer healthcare ends to avoid late enrollment penalties [2][3] - Original Medicare consists of Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) [4] Medicare Parts & Coverage - Part A covers hospital visits, treatments, procedures, and hospice care, typically without a premium but with a deductible per hospital visit [4] - Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, physical therapy, lab tests, and medical equipment, with a monthly premium based on income and 20% cost-sharing for medical services [5] - Part D covers prescription drugs, requiring selection of a provider whose plan covers needed medications, with premiums and deductibles [8] - Medigap policies can be purchased to cover out-of-pocket costs related to Parts A and B, providing more predictable expenses [7] Medicare Advantage (Part C) - Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one managed care plan that combines coverage from original Medicare, Medigap, and potentially Part D, vision, and dental [10] - Medicare Advantage plans require using in-network doctors and providers [10] Enrollment & Cost Saving Tips - Social Security should be contacted to enroll in Parts A and B, with premiums often deducted from retirement benefits [6] - Individuals should check eligibility for low-income discounts and enroll in each Medicare part on time to avoid penalties [14]