General Medicare

Understanding Medicare and How It Works for You

Medicare is a federal health insurance program designed for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as some younger individuals with disabilities or specific medical conditions. Navigating Medicare can be complex, but at Insured Carolina, we make it simple by helping you understand your options, coverage benefits, and how to choose the right plan for your needs.

What Is Medicare?

Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)

Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services.

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)

Covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.



Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)

An alternative to Original Medicare that includes Parts A and B, often with additional benefits like vision and dental.

Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)

Covers prescription medications to help reduce out-of-pocket drug costs.



Who Is Eligible for Medicare?

You may qualify for Medicare if you:


  • Are 65 years old or older and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  • Have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months.
  • Have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).



Medicare Enrollment Periods

It’s important to enroll in Medicare during the right time to avoid late penalties and ensure seamless coverage.


1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) – A 7-month window starting 3 months before your 65th birthday, including your birth month, and ending 3 months after your birthday.

2. General Enrollment Period (GEP) – Runs from January 1 – March 31 each year for those who missed their initial enrollment. Coverage starts on July 1.

3. Special Enrollment Period (SEP) – Available for individuals who qualify due to circumstances like losing employer health coverage or moving to a new area with different Medicare plans.

Medicare Costs in 2024

While Medicare Part A is free for most individuals who have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, Part B, Part C, and Part D involve additional costs, including:


Medicare Part A Deductible: $1,632 per benefit period (2024)

Medicare Part B Premium: $174.70/month (standard rate in 2024)

Medicare Part B Deductible: $240 per year (2024)

Medicare Advantage (Part C) & Part D Costs: Vary based on plan selection, coverage, and provider network

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Feature Original Medicare (Parts A & B) Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Provider Network Any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare Requires using a network of doctors/providers
Prescription Drugs Requires separate Medicare Part D plan Often includes drug coverage
Additional Benefits Basic hospital and medical coverage Can include dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs
Costs Standard Medicare premiums & deductibles Varies by plan, may have lower out-of-pocket costs

How to Choose the Right Medicare Plan

With so many options, choosing the right Medicare plan depends on:


✔ Your Healthcare Needs – Do you visit doctors frequently? Do you take prescription medications?

✔ Your Budget – How much can you afford in premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs?

✔ Doctor Preferences – Do you want flexibility in choosing healthcare providers?

✔ Additional Benefits – Do you need dental, vision, or hearing coverage?


At Insured Carolina, we simplify the process and compare Medicare plans to find the right fit for you.


Still Have Questions? Contact our Medicare experts today!

Common Medicare FAQs

  • Do I Need to Sign Up for Medicare If I’m Still Working?

    If you’re still employed and have employer-sponsored health insurance, you may be able to delay Medicare enrollment without penalties. However, it’s important to check if your current plan is considered creditable coverage to avoid future late fees.

  • What Happens If I Miss My Medicare Enrollment Period?

    If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) and do not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), you may have to wait until the General Enrollment Period (GEP) (January 1 – March 31) to sign up. Late enrollment penalties may apply for Medicare Part B and Part D.

  • Does Medicare Cover Dental, Vision, or Hearing?

    Original Medicare does not cover routine dental, vision, or hearing services. However, many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans include additional benefits such as:


    • Dental coverage for cleanings, exams, and dentures
    • Vision coverage for eye exams, glasses, and contacts
    • Hearing coverage for hearing aids and screening
  • How Much Does Medicare Part D Cost?

    Medicare Part D prescription drug plans vary in price based on:


    • The insurance provider
    • The specific medications you take
    • Your chosen pharmacy or mail-order options
    • Whether you qualify for Extra Help (a federal program that assists with drug costs)
  • Can I Have Both Medicare and Medicaid?

    Yes. Individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are considered dual-eligible and may receive extra benefits and lower out-of-pocket costs. Special Medicare plans, such as Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs), are available for these individuals.

Why Work with Insured Carolina?

Independent & Unbiased Advice – We compare plans from multiple Medicare providers.

Personalized Recommendations – No cookie-cutter solutions—just coverage that fits your needs.

Ongoing Support – We help with policy adjustments, renewals, and claims year-round.


Ready to Find the Right Medicare Plan?