Understanding Medicare: How to Choose the Right Coverage Before the Year Ends
Medicare can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. Each year, millions of Americans age 65 and older face important decisions about their healthcare coverage. Whether you’re new to Medicare, reviewing your current plan, or helping a loved one make sense of their options, understanding the basics is the first step toward getting the right protection.
At American Trustee LLC, Steve Hamlin helps seniors and families navigate Medicare with clarity and confidence. His goal is to make sure every client gets the coverage they deserve—without paying for what they don’t need.
What Is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people age 65 and older, but it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities. It’s divided into several parts, each serving a specific purpose:
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Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing care, hospice, and some home health care.
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Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and medical supplies.
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Part C (Medicare Advantage): Private insurance plans that combine Parts A and B, often with added benefits like vision, dental, and prescription coverage.
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Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Helps pay for medications prescribed by your doctor.
Why Reviewing Your Medicare Coverage Each Year Is Important
Even if you already have Medicare, it’s smart to review your plan annually during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7). Plans and pricing can change from year to year, so what worked for you last year may not be the best fit now.
Steve Hamlin helps clients compare plans to make sure they’re still getting the best value and coverage for their needs.
Common Medicare Mistakes to Avoid
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Missing Enrollment Deadlines: If you delay signing up when first eligible, you could face lifelong penalties.
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Assuming All Providers Accept Medicare: Always confirm your doctors and hospitals are within your plan’s network.
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Skipping Prescription Coverage: Even if you don’t currently take medication, it’s better to have Part D coverage in place.
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Not Comparing Plans: Different Advantage or Supplemental plans can vary widely in benefits and cost.
The Difference Between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) provides solid coverage but doesn’t include vision, dental, or prescription drug benefits. You can add a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to help pay out-of-pocket costs.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) bundles your hospital, medical, and often drug coverage into one convenient plan, sometimes with extras like gym memberships or transportation assistance.
Steve works closely with each client to compare these options side-by-side, ensuring they choose the plan that best fits their health, lifestyle, and budget.
Why Work with an Independent Agent
Medicare commercials and mailers can be overwhelming—and they often leave out important details. As an independent agent, Steve Hamlin works for his clients, not for any one insurance company. That means he can compare multiple carriers to find the plan that offers the most value.
Medicare and Retirement Planning
For many retirees, healthcare costs are one of the largest expenses in retirement. Medicare helps reduce that burden, but choosing the right plan can impact your out-of-pocket spending and long-term financial security. Steve helps retirees align their Medicare choices with their broader financial goals.
How Steve Simplifies the Process
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Reviews your eligibility and options
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Compares Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans
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Explains coverage in plain language
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Helps you enroll quickly and confidently
Medicare doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. With guidance from a trusted professional, you can make informed choices that protect your health and your wallet. Contact Steve Hamlin at American Trustee LLC today for personalized Medicare support before the year ends.