Education & Tools
Medicare Resources
Everything you need to understand Medicare — from eligibility basics to plan comparisons. Use these guides to get informed, then reach out when you're ready to talk through your options.
Knowledge Is the First Step
Medicare decisions can have a lasting impact on your health and finances. These resources are designed to help Maryland and Mid-Atlantic residents understand their options clearly — so you can make confident, informed choices.
Getting Started
Medicare Eligibility Checklist
Use this checklist to determine when and how to enroll in Medicare. Missing key enrollment windows can result in permanent late-enrollment penalties.
Talk to an advisor about enrollment- You are turning 65 within the next 3 months
- You are already receiving Social Security benefits
- You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS
- You are under 65 and have received Social Security Disability for 24 months
- You are retiring and losing employer-sponsored health coverage
- You understand the 7-month Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
- You know the difference between Part A, B, C, and D
- You have reviewed your prescription drug needs for Part D
Plan Comparison
Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
One of the most common decisions beneficiaries face is whether to stay with Original Medicare or enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. Here's a quick side-by-side overview.
| Feature | Original Medicare | Medicare Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Parts A & B only | Parts A, B, and usually D bundled |
| Extra Benefits | None | Often includes dental, vision, hearing, fitness |
| Provider Network | Any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide | Typically limited to plan network |
| Monthly Premium | Part B premium applies | Often $0 or low premium |
| Out-of-Pocket Maximum | No cap on out-of-pocket costs | Annual out-of-pocket maximum applies |
| Referrals | Not required | May be required for specialists |
This is a general overview. Plan details vary by carrier and location. Talk to Matt for personalized guidance.
Key Terms
Medicare Glossary
Medicare comes with its own vocabulary. Here are the most important terms to know.
Hospital insurance covering inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.
Medical insurance covering outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and medically necessary services.
An alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurers that bundles Parts A and B — and usually Part D — often with added benefits.
Prescription drug coverage offered by private insurers approved by Medicare. Each plan has its own formulary and cost structure.
Private insurance that fills the cost-sharing gaps in Original Medicare, such as copays, coinsurance, and deductibles.
The 7-month window around your 65th birthday (3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after) when you can first enroll in Medicare.
A window outside the standard enrollment period that allows you to enroll or change plans due to qualifying life events, such as losing employer coverage.
October 15 – December 7 each year. During this window you can switch Medicare Advantage or Part D plans for the following year.
The list of prescription drugs covered by a Part D or Medicare Advantage plan. Drugs are organized into tiers that determine your cost.
The monthly amount you pay for your Medicare coverage, regardless of whether you use medical services.
Official Sources
Trusted Medicare Links
These official government resources are the authoritative source for Medicare information, enrollment, and plan comparisons.
The links below are provided for informational purposes only. Medicare Solutions Maryland is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to Medicare.gov, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Social Security Administration (SSA), SHIP Maryland, or any other government agency. These are independent third-party websites. We do not control their content and are not responsible for information found on those sites.
Medicare.gov
The official U.S. government Medicare website. Compare plans, check coverage, and manage your benefits.
Social Security Administration
Apply for Medicare, manage Social Security benefits, and learn about eligibility requirements.
Maryland SHIP (SHIP Maryland)
Free, unbiased Medicare counseling for Maryland and Mid-Atlantic residents from the State Health Insurance Assistance Program.
Medicare Plan Finder
Officially compare Medicare Advantage and Part D plans available in your zip code side by side.
Still Have Questions?
These resources are a great starting point, but nothing replaces a conversation with an independent advisor who knows the Mid-Atlantic market. Reach out for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Talk to Matt Parks