Where to get help with Medicare decisions

Dear Savvy Senior,

I’ll be 65 in a few months and could sure use some help sorting through all the confusing Medicare options that are available to me. Where can I get help with my Medicare decisions?

Baffled Bob

Dear Bob,

With around 11,400 Baby Boomers turning 65 every day in 2026, you’re asking a very timely question.

Many people approaching Medicare are confused by all the choices available today. In addition to original Medicare (Part A and B), which has been around for more than 60 years, you also have the option of enrolling in a Part D prescription drug plan and a supplemental (Medigap) policy — both of which are sold by private insurance companies.

Another option is a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans, also offered by private insurers, bundle hospital coverage, medical care, prescription drugs, and often extra benefits like vision, dental and hearing into one policy. Most operate as HMOs or PPOs and require you to receive care within a defined network of providers in your area.

Medicare Advantage plans also have faced increased scrutiny in recent years over prior-authorization requirements that can delay or deny certain services.

To help you determine which path makes the most sense for your situation, there are several reliable resources available, depending on how much assistance you need.

Tools and resources

A good starting point is the “Medicare & You” handbook, which provides a clear overview of the program and your options. You can download a copy at www.medicare.gov/medicare-and-you, and you should receive a printed version in the mail about a month before your 65th birthday.

The Medicare website also features a helpful “Find a Medicare Plan” tool at www.medicare.gov/plan-compare that allows you to compare health plans, prescription drug coverage and supplemental policies available in your area. If you prefer to speak with someone directly, call Medicare at 800-633-4227, and a representative can walk you through your options over the phone.

Another excellent free resource is your State Health Insurance Assistance Program, which provides unbiased Medicare counseling either in person or by phone. To locate your local SHIP office, visit www.shiphelp.org or call 877-839-2675.

You also can call the Medicare Rights Center (www.medicarerights.org) at 800-333-4114 for help with specific questions.

In addition, HealthMetrix Research publishes a free Cost Share Report at www.medicarenewswatch.com that compares Medicare Advantage plans by area based on cost-sharing and health status.

Get help

If you’d like more hands-on help, you can work with a Medicare insurance agent.

Keep in mind agents are paid commissions by insurance companies, so it’s important to choose an independent agent who represents multiple insurers — not just one. That gives you access to a broader range of options.

Also understand commissions are typically higher for Medicare Advantage plans than for Medigap and Part D policies used with Original Medicare. As a result, some agents may have a financial incentive to recommend Advantage coverage. That doesn’t mean the advice is wrong, but it’s wise to ask questions and understand all your choices before enrolling.

You can search for licensed agents at www.nabip.org, the website of the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals.

Taking the time now to compare your options carefully can help you avoid costly mistakes and give you confidence in the coverage you choose.

Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.