Medicare makes turning 65 feel like your first day of high school

Everything is new. Everything is a little overwhelming. And everyone is looking for someone who can show them where they need to go.  

Welcome to Medicare. Security has some friendly, expert advice on how to get oriented and how to feel like you belong. Think of it as freshman orientation for the Medicare Class of 2026.  

If you want a guide to cut through the clutter, download our Tip Sheet for Better Medicare here.  

Step 1: Think about what’s right for you

If you feel that Medicare is too complicated, you’re not alone. Many new enrollees feel that sifting through all the coverage information, pricing and so on is like cramming for a big test.

But you don’t have to learn absolutely everything about Medicare. Just what’s right for you. We recommend taking a moment to reflect on your upcoming needs for the year.

For example, if you’re not planning on going to the doctor very often, then a plan with a $0 premium will save on up-front costs. If you know you have more immediate health care needs, then a plan with a modest monthly premium comes with lower costs for the services you use.

Striking the right balance between premiums and out-of-pocket costs is why talking to a qualified sales agent can help you decide on what plan is right for you.

Step 2: Know what you’re signing up for 

Remember those lunch trays with sections for each part of your meal? Medicare is served up with different "parts" too.

Here’s a quick overview to get you started: 

• Part A is hospital insurance for hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities and some home health care.
• Part B is medical insurance for doctor visits, medical equipment and outpatient care.
  • GOOD TO KNOW: Parts A+B are also called “Original Medicare” and are provided and serviced by the federal government.
• Part C is Medicare Advantage coverage provided by private insurance companies. Part C plans take the place of Part A and Part B coverage, then add extra value benefits such as care management, wellness, dental, hearing and vision care. Medicare Advantage member services and support go well beyond what you get with Original Medicare.
• Part D is prescription drug coverage. These plans also vary in cost and coverage and are offered through private insurance companies. You must have creditable Part D coverage through your Medicare plan or another source (VA, Wisconsin SeniorCare) to avoid a penalty if you enroll in Part D in the future.

A solid basic understanding of the different parts of Medicare is important. But don’t sweat becoming an expert. A good broker or insurance provider will help you connect the dots. 

Step 3: Get in with the right crowd 

Just like when you were in school, you want to find your people—people who will listen and help you figure out what’s best for you. That’s why we believe it’s important for new enrollees to insist on great customer service when choosing a Medicare carrier.  

Here are some things to look for when you call your health insurance carrier:  

• Does a real person answer your call?  
• Is that customer service representative patient and eager to listen?  
• Do they make it easy to understand the differences between plans, coverages, benefits and costs?  
• Does the service rep answer your questions and make sure you feel confident and satisfied?  
• Do they live in and serve your community?  

Security Health Plan treats our customers like the friends and neighbors they truly are. For over 50 years we've improved the health insurance experience for Wisconsinites and their communities. Download this tip sheet and give us a call at 1-866-335-0482. We're here to make Medicare better for you.