Call or Text: 509-362-4228

A: At Oates Insurance, we recommend enrolling in Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period, which begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and extends three months after. This seven-month window is crucial to avoid late enrollment penalties and ensure your coverage starts on time. If you are still working and have employer-sponsored health insurance, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period when that coverage ends. Given our expertise in Medicare and personalized, in-person consultations, we can guide you through the enrollment process to help you make informed decisions tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. Contact Oates Insurance early to schedule a review and secure the best coverage as you approach 65.

A: Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, are all-in-one plans offered by private insurers that combine Original Medicare coverage with additional benefits such as prescription drugs, dental, and vision under one policy, often with network restrictions. In contrast, Medicare Supplement plans, or Medigap, work alongside Original Medicare to help cover out-of-pocket costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles, providing broader provider flexibility without networks. At Oates Insurance, with 14 years of expertise in Medicare and personalized in-person reviews, I help clients understand these distinctions and select the plan that best fits their healthcare needs, budget, and lifestyle, ensuring comprehensive coverage tailored to you.