Medicare Resources
Guides, tools, and official links to help you make informed Medicare decisions.
Medicare Guides
Medicare Enrollment Periods
Understanding when you can enroll, switch, or drop Medicare coverage is critical to avoiding late enrollment penalties.
- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): 7-month window around your 65th birthday
- Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): Oct 15 – Dec 7 each year
- Special Enrollment Period (SEP): Triggered by life events (job loss, moving, etc.)
- Open Enrollment Period (OEP): Jan 1 – Mar 31 — switch Medicare Advantage plans
2026 Medicare Costs at a Glance
Key cost figures for Medicare in 2026 after Inflation Reduction Act changes.
- Part A premium: $0 for most (40+ work quarters)
- Part B standard premium: $185.00/month
- Part B deductible: $257/year
- Part D out-of-pocket cap: $2,100 (2026)
- Medicare Advantage: Often $0 premium; varies by plan
What Medicare Covers
Original Medicare (Parts A & B) covers hospital and medical services, but has important gaps.
- Part A: Hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice, some home health
- Part B: Doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, durable medical equipment
- NOT covered: Dental, vision, hearing, long-term care, most prescriptions
- Part D or Medicare Advantage adds prescription drug coverage
How to Choose the Right Plan
The best Medicare plan depends on your personal health needs, budget, and preferred doctors.
- List your current doctors and check if they're in-network
- List your medications and compare formularies
- Consider your expected healthcare usage for the year
- Compare total costs: premiums + deductibles + copays
- Work with an independent agent to compare all options
Official Government Resources
Medicare.gov
The official U.S. government Medicare website. Compare plans, find doctors, and learn about your coverage.
Visit Medicare.govSocial Security Administration
Apply for Medicare, manage your Social Security benefits, and find your local SSA office.
Visit SSA.govOhio Department of Insurance
Ohio's state insurance regulator. File complaints, verify agent licenses, and find consumer guides.
Visit Ohio DOIOSHIIP — Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program
Free, unbiased Medicare counseling for Ohio residents from trained volunteers.
Visit OSHIIPImportant Phone Numbers
Official Medicare helpline — 24/7
Social Security Administration
Ohio Department of Insurance
OSHIIP Medicare Counseling (Ohio)
Kevin E. Parker Agency — Columbus, OH
Help a friend or family member find the right Medicare coverage.
Still Have Questions?
Kevin is happy to walk you through your options — free, no obligation, no pressure.