Your Medicare checklist before you enroll.

1. Know your Medicare timing

Your first Medicare decision is timing. If you are turning 65 and do not have other creditable coverage, missing the right window can create delayed coverage or late-enrollment penalties.

• Part A: Hospital coverage. Many people qualify for premium-free Part A.
• Part B: Medical coverage. This usually has a monthly premium.
• Part D: Prescription coverage. Skipping it without creditable drug coverage can create a penalty.

2. Decide which Medicare path you want to compare

Most people compare two broad paths:

Medicare Advantage

A private plan that replaces Original Medicare for how you receive benefits. It often includes Part D and extras like dental, vision, or hearing, but uses networks and copays.

Original Medicare + Supplement + Part D

Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement can offer broader provider flexibility and more predictable medical costs, but usually has higher monthly premiums and requires a separate Part D plan.

3. Check your doctors before you fall in love with a plan

Do not choose a plan based only on premium or extra benefits. Check your primary doctor, specialists, hospital preference, and referral patterns before you enroll.

4. Run your prescriptions through the plan

Prescription costs can vary by plan, tier, quantity limit, prior authorization rule, and pharmacy. Have your medication names, dosage, and pharmacy ready before you compare.

5. Look at total yearly risk

A $0 premium Medicare Advantage plan can still have copays and a Maximum Out-of-Pocket. A Medicare Supplement can cost more monthly but reduce surprises. The right answer depends on your care pattern and budget.

6. Get help before you enroll

A Medicare review should check timing, plan type, doctors, prescriptions, pharmacy, and expected costs. That is the difference between picking a plan that sounds good and choosing one that actually fits.