The Medicare Field Guide
Plain-language guides on how Medicare actually works — written by pharmacy professionals who know the clinical side of coverage as well as the insurance side.
Your Complete Introduction to Medicare
Every major Medicare concept in one place — Parts A, B, C, and D explained, your two coverage paths, Medigap, Medicare Savings Programs, enrollment windows, and a quick checklist to get started. The big picture before you dive into the details.
Medicare Parts, A, B, C & D Explained
Medicare isn't one plan — it's a system of parts. This guide breaks down what each part covers, what it costs, and how they work together so you can make an informed choice from the start.
Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare: Which Is Right for You?
Two very different approaches to Medicare coverage. One gives you maximum flexibility; the other bundles everything into a single plan. We break down the trade-offs clearly so you can decide what fits your life.
Traveling Overseas? Here's What's Actually Covered
Medicare's coverage outside the U.S. is much more limited than most people assume. We break down what Original Medicare, Medigap, and Medicare Advantage each actually cover for routine care, emergencies, and prescriptions abroad — and where the real gaps are.
What Is Medigap? A Plain-Language Guide to Medicare Supplement Plans
Original Medicare leaves gaps in your coverage. Medigap plans fill those gaps. Learn how it works and the critical enrollment window you can't afford to miss.
How Medicare Drug Coverage Works
Every Medicare drug plan has its own list of covered medications, organized into tiers. Most people never look at it. Our pharmacy professional advisors explain exactly how it works before you enroll.
The Part D Out-of-Pocket Cap: What It Means for Your Drug Costs
Starting in 2026, out-of-pocket prescription drug costs are capped annually under federal law — a significant change. We explain what this means in practice, who benefits most, and how to plan around it.
Understanding Medicare Costs: Premiums, Deductibles & What to Expect
Part B carries a standard monthly premium. Part A has its own hospital deductible structure. This guide explains how Medicare's cost structure fits together — and which costs you can offset, and how.
Is Your Income Slightly Too High for Medicaid? You May Still Qualify for Help
Medicare Savings Programs have higher income limits than full Medicaid — and can meaningfully reduce your Part B premium costs. This guide explains the three tiers and how to apply.
What Is a D-SNP? The Complete Guide for Dual-Eligible Individuals
If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, you may qualify for a Dual Special Needs Plan — a specialized Medicare Advantage plan that coordinates both programs into one integrated plan.
Every Medicare Enrollment Window — and When You Can Use Each One
Most people think October is the only time to change Medicare plans. It isn't. This guide covers every enrollment period — AEP, OEP, and Special Enrollment Periods — and exactly when each applies to you.
Your Medicare Enrollment Checklist: What to Do — and When — at 65
Miss a deadline at 65 and you could face a late enrollment penalty that follows you for life. This step-by-step checklist walks you through exactly what to do and when, based on your specific situation.
Still Working at 65? How Employer Coverage Affects Your Medicare Enrollment
If you or your spouse are still working and covered by employer insurance, you may be able to delay Medicare without penalty — but the rules are very specific. COBRA, retiree plans, and marketplace plans do NOT count. This guide walks through every scenario.
Medicare Forms Library: The Official Forms People Actually Need
Direct links to the real CMS and Social Security forms — delaying or declining Part B while still working, appealing an IRMAA surcharge, authorizing a family member to talk to Medicare on your behalf, and more — each with a plain-language explanation of what it's for.
Still Have Questions?
These guides are a starting point — but every Medicare situation is different.
A PharmSurance advisor can walk you through yours, at no cost.