If you’d like prescription drug coverage, you can purchase a Medicare Part D plan. Part D plans are offered by private insurance companies and include most prescription drugs.
Additionally, Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans include all services covered under original Medicare, as well as some additional services like dental, vision, and even fitness programs. If you know you’ll need these services frequently, consider a Part C plan.
When can I apply?
Initial enrollment period. This is a 7-month window around your 65th birthday when you can sign up for Medicare. It begins 3 months before your birth month, includes the month of your birthday, and extends 3 months after your birthday. During this time, you can enroll for all parts of Medicare without a penalty.
Annual enrollment period (October 15–December 7). During this time, you can change from original Medicare (parts A and B) to Part C (Medicare Advantage), or from Part C back to original Medicare. You can change Part C plans. You can also add or change to a Medicare Supplement policy (Health Underwriting may be required for these plans). Additionally, you can add, remove, or change a Part D plan.
General enrollment period (January 1–March 31). If you are enrolled in Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) you can change to another Part C (Medicare Advantage) plan, or from Part C back to original Medicare. You can make one change each year during the General enrollment period.
Special enrollment period. If you delayed Medicare enrollment for an approved reason, you can later enroll during a special enrollment period. You have 8 months from the end of your coverage or the end of your employment to sign up without penalty.
Medicare can be complicated, and there are many factors to consider to determine the right fit for you. We can help guide you.
The Quintana Group is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or with the federal Medicare program. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 10 organizations in 2 states which offer 46 plans (plan availability depends on the zip code in which you reside). Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-Medicare or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.