Medicare for Dummies (me)

[popps9]

I turn 65 in June 2016 and have been receiving Social Security for about 6 months now. I have tried to read and understand what I need to do now and I am perplexed. What do I need to know about Part A, B, C, D......I have no idea what I'm doing right now. Looked for any seminars in my area and none to be found.
Hopefully someone can give me a basic run down on what I need to do.
Thank you

 

[Mack]

Since you are already receiving Social Security before the age of 65 you do not have to do anything. You will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B when you get 65. You will get your Medicare card in the mail about 3 months before your 65th birthday. The premium will be taken out of your SS.

Please see this page for more info:
https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-ch...hen-how-to-sign-up-for-part-a-and-part-b.html

 

[popps9]

Thanks for the fast reply.
Thats good to know I don't need to register.
But where does the Part C and D fall into play. Do I even need them. Or how do I determine if I do.
Thank you very much

 

[Mack]

Part C is "Medicare Advantage" which is an option that takes the place of Part B and B. Basically it is a cheaper option, but limits the doctors you can see to a "network".

Please See this link for more about Part C:
https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-ch...-plans/how-medicare-advantage-plans-work.html

Part D is the Medicare Prescription Drug program. Part A and B does not cover prescription drugs. So you need to enroll in Part D in order to have your drugs covered. Even if you do not take any now, you need to enroll because a late enrollment will cost you a penalty for the rest of your life. Many Medicare Advantage Plans cover Prescription Drugs so if you enroll in one that does then you do not need Part D. More about Part D here:
https://www.medicare.gov/part-d/