Why is Medicare so darn confusing? Let’s start with the basic rules. You become eligible for Medicare, the federal government’s health insurance programs for seniors, when you turn 65. Medicare includes Part A, which is premium-free and pays for most hospital costs, and Part B, which has a monthly premium and pays for most doctors’ fees and outpatient services. About half of retirees supplement original Medicare with a private Medigap policy, and in some cases, a Part D prescription drug plan. Others choose to bundle their Medicare services into a comprehensive Medicare Advantage plan, which may offer additional coverage, such as vision and dental care, in exchange for using a network of health care providers. Keep reading for more detail and information on initial, special, and annual general enrollment periods.
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