Seniors on Medicare are being advised to look into coverage early, as open enrollment starts Thursday.
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and over.
Part A helps pay for inpatient care and is usually free. Part B helps pay for doctors’ services and is optional because patients have to pay. Then you can get Part C through private insurance and Part D covers prescriptions.
But whichever part you want, Catherine Field with Humana advises people to start their research early, “Because it’s a big decision: what to do with your Medicare benefits," she said.
"So we encourage people to think about what their medical care and expenses will look like over the course of the next year and to pick a plan that matches their health needs."
The enrollment window stays open until Dec. 7.
Many seniors use family members, brokers or their physician’s office to help choose the right insurance.