New to Medicare? Let's Make the Next Steps Clear.
Whether you're turning 65, retiring, losing employer coverage, or just trying to understand how Medicare works, this page will help you get oriented and know where to begin. I work with people throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana — and in several other states — who are figuring this out for the first time.
Where Are You Starting From?
Everyone arrives at Medicare from a different direction. Here's a starting point based on your situation.
I'm Turning 65
Medicare planning often begins before your 65th birthday, and timing matters more than people expect. See when you can enroll →
I'm Still Working After 65
Some people keep their employer coverage and delay Medicare; others enroll alongside it. What makes sense depends on your specific situation. Learn about enrollment timing →
I'm Retiring or Losing Employer Coverage
This transition often creates an important enrollment window, and the timing can matter quite a bit. Understand your enrollment options →
I'm Under 65 and Eligible Due to Disability
Medicare isn't limited to people turning 65 — and the plan options available to you may look a little different. See how Medicare works →
I Already Have Medicare Parts A & B
Many people receive their Medicare card and then need to figure out what additional coverage actually fits their needs. Compare your coverage options →
I'm Not Sure Where to Begin
That's completely fine — you don't need to understand Medicare before reaching out. Just ask me a question →
What Should I Do First?
Every situation is a little different, but here's a general roadmap many people follow:
1. Determine When Medicare Should Begin
Your timing depends on your birthday, your work status, and any current coverage you have.
2. Confirm Whether Parts A & B Should Start Right Away
For some people, enrolling immediately makes sense. For others, it doesn't — it depends on your circumstances.
3. Gather Your Doctors, Medications & Pharmacies
Having this list ready makes comparing plans much easier when the time comes.
4. Understand Your Coverage Options
Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, and Part D all work differently.
5. Compare Before You Enroll
Take the time to compare your options against your doctors, prescriptions, and budget before choosing.
Understanding Your Coverage Options
This is just a starting orientation — each option has its own dedicated page with more detail.
Original Medicare
Medicare Parts A and B, run directly through the federal government. Learn more →
Medicare Advantage
Bundled coverage through a private insurance company, often including drug coverage. Learn more →
Medicare Supplement
Coverage that works alongside Original Medicare to help with the gaps it leaves behind. Learn more →
Prescription Drug Coverage
Part D helps cover medication costs through private, Medicare-approved plans. Learn more →
Generally speaking, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement are two different approaches to coverage, and they aren't typically used together. Which one fits your situation depends on your doctors, your budget, and what matters most to you — something we can go through together. For a deeper look, see Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement, try the interactive decision guide, or if timing is your main question, Medicare Enrollment Periods Explained.
Choose Your Next Step
Explore On Your Own
Take a few minutes to go through my guided Medicare review at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I begin preparing for Medicare?
Many people start thinking about it a few months before turning 65, since enrollment timing can matter. Exactly when it makes sense to start depends on your situation, including whether you already have other coverage.
Do I have to enroll as soon as I turn 65?
Not necessarily. It depends on your circumstances, including whether you have coverage through an employer. For some people enrolling right away makes sense; for others, it may not.
What happens if I keep working after 65?
It depends on the size of your employer and the coverage you have. Some people continue employer coverage and delay Medicare, while others enroll in Medicare alongside their employer plan. This is worth reviewing individually.
What should I do when employer coverage ends?
Losing employer coverage can create an important enrollment window, and the timing can matter. It's worth reviewing your options as soon as you know your coverage is ending.
What's the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement?
Generally speaking, these are two different approaches to filling the gaps Original Medicare leaves behind, and they aren't typically combined. Which one fits depends on your doctors, your budget, and your priorities.
Do I need prescription drug coverage if I don't currently take medication?
It's worth discussing, since going without creditable drug coverage for a period of time may affect your costs later if you enroll in Part D down the road. Your specific situation will determine what makes sense.
Can I review my options without being pressured into enrolling?
Yes. Reviews are free and no-obligation, and there's no pressure to enroll in anything during our conversation.
What information should I gather before comparing Medicare plans?
It helps to have a list of your current doctors, prescriptions, and pharmacies on hand, along with any coverage you currently have. That gives us a starting point for comparing your options.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Medicare decisions don't have to be overwhelming. I'm here to help you understand your options — not to pressure you into a plan.