Medicare in Redmond, Oregon

---

The annual Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7. During this time, you can:

• Switch from a private plan to Original coverage (or vice versa)
• Join, drop, or change a drug plan
• Review changes to your current coverage

Changes take effect on January 1 of the following year. If you miss this window, you may have to wait until the next enrollment period unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment.

These two parts form the foundation of federal health coverage:

• Part A: Covers inpatient care like hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, and hospice
• Part B: Covers outpatient care such as doctor visits, preventive services, and durable medical equipment

However, A and B do not include:

• Prescription drugs
• Dental, vision, or hearing services
• An out-of-pocket spending cap
  
  

Original coverage leaves significant gaps. Most people choose to add a plan that helps cover:

• Deductibles and 20% coinsurance
• Prescription drugs
• Dental, vision, or hearing care
• A cap on total annual expenses

This can be done with either a Supplement plan (Medigap) or a bundled private plan that replaces A and B.

There are two main ways to add protection to your base coverage:

• Supplement Plan (Medigap):

• Works with Parts A and B
• Helps pay deductibles, coinsurance, and copays
• Requires a separate drug plan (Part D)
• Accepted by any provider who takes federal coverage

• Bundled Private Plan (Advantage):

• Replaces A and B
• Often includes drug coverage
• Adds benefits like dental, vision, or gym memberships
• Has a built-in annual spending limit

You can’t have both at the same time—you’ll choose one or the other.

If you enroll in A and B but don’t add additional coverage:

• You pay full price for prescriptions
• You cover 20% of most outpatient care
• There’s no cap on what you might spend out-of-pocket
• You miss out on coverage for dental, vision, and hearing
• You may face higher costs later if you delay adding coverage

This is why most people either add a Supplement plan or choose an Advantage plan from the start.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by Medicare choices, we can help you understand how Medicare Part A and B work, the difference between Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Supplement insurance, and which plans may be the best fit for your needs. 

Our local Medicare experts and licensed Medicare agents in Redmond will guide you through your coverage options, explain costs, and make sure you enroll on time. Whether you’re new to Medicare coverage or looking to switch, we’re your trusted Redmond broker for clear, personalized advice.