Tools & Resources to Compare Medicare Plans

Where to Find Reliable Information (and Why a Broker Can Save You Time)
When the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) arrives, many people head straight to Google or flip through the stack of mailers that landed on their kitchen table. But comparing plans doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The key is knowing which resources you can trust — and how to use them to make the best decision for your health and your wallet.
Let’s look at the main tools available, what they’re good for, and why many people ultimately find that working with a broker is the easiest path forward.
The official Medicare Plan Finder is one of the most powerful tools out there. It allows you to:
  • Enter your prescriptions and preferred pharmacies
  • See which Part D or Medicare Advantage plans cover your medications
  • Compare estimated annual drug costs across different plans
Best for: Getting a clear snapshot of drug coverage and costs.
Limitations: It doesn’t explain the “why” behind the numbers. You’ll see the math, but not always the trade-offs in benefits, networks, or long-term value.

Medicare.gov Plan Finder

Every state has a SHIP program, staffed by trained volunteers who provide free, unbiased counseling. SHIP can:
  • Help you understand your Medicare rights
  • Walk you through how to use Medicare.gov tools
  • Answer general coverage questions
Best for: Free, neutral education.
Limitations: Appointments can be limited, and SHIP counselors cannot recommend specific plans or help you apply directly.

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

Insurance Carrier Websites

Most insurance companies have online portals where you can:
  • Look up provider directories
  • Review plan-specific benefits
  • Download drug formularies
Best for: Confirming details once you already have a plan in mind.
Limitations: Carrier sites only show their own plans — not comparisons across companies.

Independent Research (Mailers, Ads, Friends)

You’ll get plenty of mail, see countless commercials, and maybe even hear advice from friends or neighbors. While this can give you ideas, remember:
  • Ads only highlight the positives.
  • Mailers are designed to grab attention, not explain the fine print.
  • What works for your neighbor may not fit your health or budget needs.

Why a Broker Is the Best Resource

While all of the tools above can help, many people find that sitting down with a licensed, independent broker saves them time and confusion. A broker can:
  • Compare plans across multiple carriers side by side
  • Explain how changes in costs or networks may affect your doctors and medications
  • Help you understand differences between Medicare Advantage and Supplements
  • Guide you through enrollment so you don’t miss deadlines
The biggest advantage? Personalization. A good broker listens to your needs, checks your providers and prescriptions, and makes sure you’re not overpaying for coverage you don’t need.

Key Takeaway

When it comes to Medicare, information is everywhere — but not all of it is useful. Use tools like Medicare.gov, SHIP, and carrier websites for background research, but when it’s time to make a decision, the smartest step is to schedule time with your broker . It’s the best way to turn information into confidence, knowing you’ve chosen the plan that truly fits your life.

Choosing the Right Medicare Coverage

Selecting the best Medicare coverage depends on factors like your healthcare needs, budget, and preferred providers. You can choose between:
  • Original Medicare (Parts A & B): Allows you to see any doctor or
    hospital that accepts Medicare but does not include prescription drug
    coverage (Part D) or additional benefits.
  • Medicare Advantage (Part C): Offers bundled coverage with
    potential extra benefits but may require using a network of providers.
  • Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance): Helps cover
    out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare, such as
    copayments and deductibles.

Key Medicare Enrollment Periods

It is crucial to enroll in Medicare at the right time to avoid penalties and ensure continuous coverage:
  • Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): A seven-month window starting
    three months before your 65th birthday month.
  • General Enrollment Period (GEP): From January 1 to March 31
    each year for those who missed their IEP.
  • Annual Election Period (AEP): From October 15 to December 7,
    allowing you to switch or enroll in Medicare Advantage and Part D
    plans.
  • Open Enrollment Period(OEP): From January 1 to March 31 for
    those who missed AEP and want to make certain changes.
  • Special Enrollment Period(SEP): Can be used anytime during the
    calendar year for those that meet certain criteria such as moving to a
    new service area.

Finding Help with Medicare

Understanding Medicare can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Licensed Insurance Brokers, Medicare.gov, and state health assistance programs can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.
By taking the time to explore your Medicare options, you can make informed decisions that ensure you receive the healthcare coverage that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
Do I have to sign up for Medicare?
It depends upon your current coverage. If you are employed and your employer has over 20 employees then you can delay signing up for Medicare and avoid penalties.
No, You will have to enroll in a stand alone Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan(Part C) to get coverage.
There are no networks with Medicare and most doctors and hospitals accept it. However, Medicare does not cover 100% of services so a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plans is advisable.

Mike Miligi- Owner

For over 10 years, Mike has been assisting Seniors and other Medicare-eligible individuals in understanding the ins and outs of Medicare and Medicare Health Insurance options, including Medicare Advantage Plans(Part C), Medicare Supplement Plans(Medigap), Prescription Drug Plans(PartD), and Dental and Vision programs.
Mike is Licensed in seven States and Certified with 11 Insurance Carriers. He has helped thousands of individuals decide on the best course of action for their particular Health Insurance needs. Because Mike is an Independent Medicare Health Insurance Broker, he works for the client, not the Insurance Carriers, and is able to provide his clients with accurate and unbiased Health Insurance options.
Mike recertifies with CMS(The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) annually, regularly completes Continuing Education Courses required by individual State Insurance Departments, and keeps abreast of industry trends and standards to offer his clients the most up-to-date information.
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