Medicare made simple
Understanding Medicare — Without the Confusion
Medicare has a lot of moving parts. As an independent local agent, I help you sort through your options, compare plans side by side, and choose coverage that actually fits your life — at no extra cost to you.
What Is Medicare?
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. It's divided into parts — each covering different services — and understanding how they work together is the key to getting the right coverage.
The good news: you don't have to figure it out alone. I work with multiple carriers across West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Ohio to find the plan that fits your health needs and your budget.
The Four Parts of Medicare
Each part covers something different. Here's what you need to know.
Medicare Part A
Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Most people don't pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working.
- Inpatient hospital care
- Skilled nursing facility stays
- Hospice care
- Some home health services
Medicare Part B
Medical Insurance
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment. Part B has a monthly premium, and most people pay the standard amount set by Medicare each year.
- Doctor visits & specialist care
- Outpatient procedures
- Preventive screenings
- Durable medical equipment
Medicare Part C
Medicare Advantage
An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurers. Most plans include Part D drug coverage and often add dental, vision, and hearing benefits — sometimes with a $0 premium.
- All Part A & B benefits
- Often includes Part D
- May add dental, vision & hearing
- Network-based care (HMO/PPO)
Medicare Part D
Prescription Drug Coverage
Helps cover the cost of prescription medications. Part D plans are offered by private insurers and vary by formulary (drug list), premiums, and copays. Choosing the right plan can save you hundreds per year.
- Prescription drug costs
- Formulary-based coverage
- Mail-order pharmacy options
- Annual enrollment flexibility
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Original Medicare covers a lot, but it doesn't cover everything. A Medicare Supplement plan — also called Medigap — helps pay for costs like copays, coinsurance, and deductibles that Original Medicare leaves behind. These plans work alongside Parts A and B and are standardized, so Plan G from one carrier offers the same core benefits as Plan G from another.
Plan G
The most popular supplement plan. Covers nearly all out-of-pocket costs after the Part B deductible.
Plan N
Lower premium with small copays for some office and ER visits. A great value for healthy beneficiaries.
High-Deductible Plan G
Lowest premium option. You pay a higher deductible before coverage kicks in — ideal for those who rarely use care.
When Can You Enroll?
Initial Enrollment Period
A 7-month window starting 3 months before your 65th birthday month. This is the best time to enroll to avoid late penalties.
Special Enrollment Period
If you have employer coverage past 65, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period when that coverage ends — no penalty.
Annual Enrollment Period
October 15 – December 7 each year. Switch Medicare Advantage or Part D plans for the following year.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
January 1 – March 31. If you're already in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch once during this window.
Carriers We Work With
As an independent agent, I'm not tied to any one company. I compare plans from these trusted carriers to find what works best for you.
Peak Health
West Virginia's local health plan
Aetna
Medicare Advantage & Supplement plans
UnitedHealthcare
Medicare Advantage & Part D
Humana
Medicare Advantage & Supplement plans
The Health Plan
Regional coverage across WV & OH
Not Sure Which Medicare Plan Is Right for You?
That's exactly what I'm here for. Let's talk through your situation — your doctors, your prescriptions, your budget — and find the plan that makes sense. No pressure, no 800 numbers, just a real conversation.