Medicare Made Simple: What Every First-Time Enrollee Should Know

Navigating Medicare for the first time can feel overwhelming. With so many plans, parts, and enrollment deadlines to keep track of, it’s easy to feel confused or unsure where to start. But don’t worry — you’re not alone. Whether you’re approaching your 65th birthday or helping a loved one understand their coverage, this guide will break Medicare down into simple terms so you can make confident, informed decisions.

At ProCompareMedicare, our mission is to make Medicare simple, personal, and stress-free. Here’s everything you need to know as a first-time enrollee.

🎯 What Is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for:

People age 65 and older
Individuals under 65 with certain disabilities
Those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS

Medicare is divided into four parts: Part A, B, C, and D. Each part covers a different type of healthcare service.

🧩 Understanding the Four Parts of Medicare

Part A – Hospital Insurance

Covers inpatient care in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and some home health services.
✅ Most people receive Part A premium-free if they or their spouse have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.

Part B – Medical Insurance

Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventative services, lab work, and durable medical equipment.
💰 You’ll pay a monthly premium for Part B (the standard premium in 2024 is $174.70, though it may vary by income).

Part C – Medicare Advantage

A bundled plan offered by private insurance companies that includes everything in Parts A and B, and often Part D too. Many plans offer additional benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and gym memberships.
📍 Available based on your location (Lynn Roach can help you compare plans in Oklahoma).

Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage

Helps cover the cost of prescription medications. Offered as a standalone plan or included in some Medicare Advantage plans.
💊 Coverage varies, so reviewing your medications is key when selecting a plan.

📅 When to Enroll: Key Medicare Deadlines

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

Your first opportunity to sign up for Medicare begins:

3 months before your 65th birthday
Includes your birthday month
Ends 3 months after

✅ Total = a 7-month window

Missing this period could result in late penalties and delayed coverage — so planning ahead is essential.

Already Getting Social Security?

If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits, you’ll likely be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B. But it’s still important to review your options — because Medicare Advantage or Part D plans require separate enrollment.

💡 Do You Need Additional Coverage?

Original Medicare (Parts A & B) doesn’t cover everything. You’re responsible for:

20% of the cost of most services (no cap)
Prescription drugs
Routine dental, vision, and hearing care

To help cover these gaps, you can consider:

A Medicare Supplement Plan (Medigap) – helps cover out-of-pocket costs
A Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) – includes extra benefits like drug coverage, dental, and vision

➡️ Not sure which is right for you? ProCompareMedicare can help you compare side-by-side.

📝 How to Enroll in Medicare

Skip the hassle—work with a licensed Medicare agent like Lynn Roach, who will walk you through everything at no cost to you.

👩‍⚕️ Why Work with ProCompareMedicare?

At ProCompareMedicare, we specialize in making Medicare personal. When you work with Lynn Roach, you’ll get:

✅ A full explanation of your Medicare options
✅ Help reviewing doctors, prescriptions, and plan networks
✅ Step-by-step enrollment assistance
✅ Ongoing support throughout the year

And the best part? It’s 100% free — your premiums won’t change whether you enroll on your own or get professional help.

📍 Serving Oklahoma With Care

Lynn Roach proudly helps Medicare beneficiaries throughout Muskogee, Tulsa, Cherokee, Wagoner, Creek, and surrounding Oklahoma counties. Whether you prefer a phone call, in-person visit, or virtual meeting, you’ll always receive personalized care from someone who truly listens.

💬 Final Thoughts

Starting Medicare can feel like a big step—but with the right information and guidance, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you choose Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, or need help choosing a prescription plan, ProCompareMedicare is here to help.

📞 Ready to Get Started?

Call Lynn Roach today at 1-918-913-8199
Or request your free Medicare consultation and get answers tailored to your needs.