Consider these questions to ask about Medicare coverage

If you are new to Medicare, there are several questions you should consider while approaching or within your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) or a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

Use this guide to consider your options when preparing to enroll in Medicare or after you have already enrolled.

What are the basics? Medicare initially is a learning curve for everyone. The best place to start when you are new to Medicare is by familiarizing yourself with the differences between it and the health insurance you have now.

Learn what makes a person Medicare-eligible, the different parts of Medicare insurance and what those parts cover, times to enroll in Medicare and how putting off enrollment can result in penalties. These initial steps will help smooth the transition from your current insurance to Medicare once you are eligible.

What are your coverage options? Everyone has different health care needs, meaning the coverage that is right for your friends or family may not be right for you. Will you enroll in original Medicare or would you prefer a Medicare Advantage plan that may limit your provider networks or have different costs but that offers additional coverage?

If you have current employer insurance, you may decide not to enroll in Medicare until you have retired. If you are already retired, you might find that original Medicare plus retiree insurance works better for you than original Medicare plus a Medigap, or vice versa. Find out the full range of your coverage options.

Should you enroll in Part D? While you should make sure you enroll in Part D prescription drug coverage when you become Medicare-eligible —assuming you do not have other creditable drug coverage — there are many Part D options for you to explore.

Keep in mind, too, that sometimes retiree insurance offers prescription drug coverage that is as good as or better than Medicare Part D. If that is the case, you might decide not to take Part D because you are already covered. Finally, if you have difficulty affording your drug costs, you may want to consider applying for programs that can help pay these costs.

Are you eligible for programs that help lower Medicare costs? There are several programs for people with low incomes that help pay for Medicare-related costs, such as premiums and copays. Some of these programs are federal while others are state-specific. Find out whether you meet the eligibility requirements and take full advantage.

What resources exist to help you navigate Medicare? Medicare is a complex and beneficial program, and a variety of trusted sources can help you navigate your rights and options. A few are:

1-800-MEDICARE.

Social Security Administration (www.ssa.gov/).

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (www.shiptacenter.org/).

Medicare Rights Center (www.medicarerights.org/).

Lean on the expertise of a seasoned, objective independent insurance adviser. One knowledgeable about Medicare, Medicaid and entirely licensed with Medicare supplements, prescription cards and Medicare Advantage plans. Find one who doesn't need your business to survive. They are busy serving their happy clients and have earned a well-respected reputation. Maybe one has been referred to you by a trusted friend.

Are they objectively licensed with all the major companies? This is where you find the best quality value for you.

Bob Land is president of Landmark Financial Services LLC, a 29-year-old executive and employee benefits firm located in Rocky Mount with affiliated offices in Raleigh, Charlotte, Richmond and Columbia, S.C.