What's the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement?

Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits through a private Medicare-approved plan and may include prescription drug coverage and additional benefits. Medicare Supplement insurance, also called Medigap, works with Original Medicare to help pay certain Medicare cost-sharing expenses. The two types of coverage work differently and may fit different healthcare and financial needs.

Do I have to pay for Kidwell Insurance Services?

There is no direct fee to clients for our insurance guidance and enrollment assistance. Insurance carriers generally compensate licensed agents when a client enrolls in a plan they represent. Carrier compensation does not increase the plan's premium.

Can I switch Medicare plans?

Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to change Medicare coverage during certain enrollment periods. The Medicare Annual Election Period generally runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. Medicare Advantage enrollees may also have certain opportunities to make changes during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 through March 31. Other Special Enrollment Periods may apply.

What if my doctors are not in the plan's network?

Before enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan, it is important to verify that your doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers participate in the specific plan's network. Network rules vary by plan. Medicare Supplement insurance works with Original Medicare, which generally allows you to see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, subject to Medicare's rules.

Turning 65 and new to Medicare

Turning 65? Get Medicare right the first time.

Q: When should I enroll in Medicare?

Your Initial Enrollment Period generally begins 3 months before you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and continues for 3 months after your birthday month. If you are still working and covered by qualifying group health coverage based on current employment, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Your enrollment timing depends on your circumstances.

Personalized guidance to understand your options, avoid costly mistakes, and enroll with confidence.

Book a free consultation

Free and no obligation. Meet by video or phone with a licensed local agent.

A couple walking in a park talking about enrolling in Medicare.

Your Initial Enrollment Period is seven months long

It opens 3 months before the month you turn 65 and closes 3 months after. Pick your birthday month to see your dates.

I turn 65 in

Best time to enroll

Sign up now and coverage can start the first day of your birthday month.

Confirm your choices

Coverage starts the month after you sign up.

Last chance

Coverage starts the month after you sign up. The window closes at the end of month 3.

Penalties may apply

Late enrollment can add lasting Part B and Part D penalties.

Get the free Turning 65 Medicare checklist

✔ Medicare enrollment deadlines

✔ Coverage options

✔ Important documents

✔ Questions to ask

✔ Next steps before enrolling

Most people turning 65 are asking the same questions

You don't need to answer them alone. A 1-on-1 consultation covers all of them for your situation.

When should I enroll in Medicare?

Supplement or Advantage?

Will my doctors accept my plan?

Do I need Medicare if I'm still working?

Do I need drug coverage?

What will Medicare cost me?

Book a free consultation

Common Medicare mistakes

Missing enrollment deadlines

Late enrollment can lead to penalties and coverage gaps.

Choosing on premium alone

The lowest premium isn't always the lowest overall cost.

Ignoring drug coverage

Prescription costs can have a big impact on what you spend.

Skipping the network check

Confirm your doctors and specialists take the plan you choose.

Going it alone

These decisions affect your healthcare and budget for years.

The parts of Medicare, in plain terms

Part A

Hospital insurance for inpatient stays, skilled nursing, hospice, and some home care.

Part B

Medical insurance for doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and equipment.

Medicare Advantage

Plans from private insurers approved by Medicare, offered as an alternative to Original Medicare.

Read the Advantage guide

Medicare Supplement

Covers costs Original Medicare doesn't, like copays and deductibles. Plans A through N.

Read the Supplement guide

Part D

Drug costs vary widely between plans. We check your specific medications to keep costs low.

Read the Part D guide

Turning 65 FAQ

Most people should begin reviewing options about three months before turning 65.
We understand that Medicare isn't just about choosing a plan—it's about protecting your health and financial well-being.
Our agency is committed to providing:
- Personalized service
- Honest recommendations
- Education-first guidance
- Ongoing support
- Long-term relationships
We're here to help make Medicare easier to understand and less stressful to navigate.
That depends on the plan you choose. We help review provider participation before enrollment.
Many beneficiaries choose prescription coverage to help manage medication costs and avoid future penalties.
Your options may depend on your employer's coverage and workforce size. We can help explain your choices.
Our consultations are designed to help educate and guide clients at no direct cost.

Get the answers you need before your window opens.

Book a free consultation

Turning 65? Get Medicare right the first time.

Your Initial Enrollment Period is seven months long

Get the free Turning 65 Medicare checklist

Most people turning 65 are asking the same questions

Common Medicare mistakes

The parts of Medicare, in plain terms

Part A

Part B

Medicare Advantage

Medicare Supplement

Part D

Turning 65 FAQ

Get the answers you need before your window opens.

Kidwell Insurance Agency LLC