This article originally appeared on thebraggingmommy.com

Medicare is a government program that provides insurance for people aged 65 and older, people with disabilities, or end-stage renal disease. If you’re under 65 and receive Social Security Disability Insurance payments, you may also be eligible for Medicare insurance. 

There are various Medicare plans to choose from, each with its pros and cons. In addition, the market for Medicare insurance has changed significantly in recent years. The Internet and technology have made it much easier to shop online. 

That being said, there are still some unique challenges when shopping for Medicare. If you’re eager to learn more about the details of these programs and find the right plan for your financial situation and personal needs, Medicare brokers nearby like The Big 65 are your best bet. 

Who Is a Medicare Broker?

A Medicare broker helps individuals navigate the confusing landscape of Medicare insurance. Brokers can help you understand which plans you’re eligible for, what each plan entails, and what plan best meets your needs based on your specific financial situation. 

Unlike captive insurance agents, independent Medicare insurance brokers are not tied to a single carrier. As a result, they will provide side-by-side comparisons of all the major carriers without preference.

A local broker is an excellent resource if you’re shopping for Medicare insurance or want to know more about these programs.

You’ll Understand the Basics of Medicare

The Big 65 will first help you understand some basics about Medicare to understand your options better.

For instance, if you’re enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, you have what’s known as original Medicare. This insurance covers hospital stays, lab tests, surgeries, and other medical expenses. 

Medicare Parts A and B cover different aspects of your healthcare. Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, outpatient care, and hospice care. Part B covers doctor’s visits and diagnostic tests.

You’ll Find Plans That Can Help Meet Your Needs

As you review the different Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans and Medicare Parts A and B, you’ll want to find the programs that best meet your needs. Although you could try to sort through all the plans independently, it can be very time-consuming. So, if you’re short on time, you may want to consider working with a Medicare broker. 

A Medicare broker can sort through the different plans and help you find the plans that best meet your needs and financial situation. If you’re on a fixed income, a broker may be able to help you find ways to save money on your monthly premiums. 

You’ll Find Out What Medicare Covers 

Medicare brokers near me will also explain aspects of Medicare that are covered and some that are voluntary. The following parts of Medicare are for everyone enrolled in Medicare: 

• Doctor’s Visits – Medicare may pay for all or a portion of doctor’s visits, depending on the plan type. 

• Hospital Stays – Medicare may pay for all or a portion of hospital stays if you’re admitted as a patient in a hospital because of a medical condition. 

• Outpatient Care may include lab tests, imaging scans, and other services.

• Lab Tests – Medicare may pay for a portion of lab tests that a doctor orders as part of your medical treatment.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right insurance plan is essential, especially if you’re on Medicare. It can be tricky to navigate all options, especially if you’ve never done it. That’s why it’s helpful to work with a Medicare broker.

An independent Medicare Insurance broker can help you navigate the confusing landscape of Medicare insurance and be there year after year. They will explain the different plans so you can determine which ones might meet your needs and budget. A reliable Medicare insurance broker will be there to help you review your coverage annually to help you avoid irreversible mistakes.