Frequently Asked Questions About
Medicare
Eligibility, Plans and Coverage Guide
As a trusted Medicare insurance advisor serving Christiansburg, Blacksburg, Radford, Roanoke, and surrounding New River Valley communities, Steve McPeak offers more than just answers—he offers peace of mind. This FAQ page is an extension of his commitment to helping local seniors and retirees confidently navigate Medicare.
If you’re nearing age 65, planning for retirement, or simply overwhelmed by all the Medicare options out there, Steve is available for a free, one-on-one consultation to walk you through the best plans for your situation, right here in Southwest Virginia.
Medicare Eligibility & Enrollment
You can enroll starting 3 months before your 65th birthday, including your birth month and the 3 months after. If you receive Social Security benefits before 65, you may be automatically enrolled.
You can sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B by visiting SSA.gov.
Contact the Social Security Administration about 3 months before turning 65 to apply for Medicare if you’re not automatically enrolled.
You may face late enrollment penalties and delayed coverage. You can enroll during the General Enrollment Period (January 1–March 31), but coverage begins July 1, and penalties may apply.
Yes, if your employer coverage is considered credible, you can delay Medicare enrollment without penalty. You must enroll during a Special Enrollment Period once that coverage ends.
Creditable coverage is prescription drug coverage at least as good as Medicare Part D, allowing you to delay Part D enrollment without penalty.
Medicare Costs & Coverage Parts
Medicare includes premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Part A is usually premium-free, but Part B and Part D have monthly premiums. Costs vary by plan and coverage.
Part A: Hospital insurance, usually premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for 10+ years.
Part B: Medical insurance with a monthly premium.
Part C (Medicare Advantage): Private plans combining Parts A, B, and usually D, often with extra benefits.
Part D: Prescription drug coverage.
Part A is often premium-free and automatic if eligible. Part B is optional but recommended for outpatient coverage and requires a monthly premium.
Yes, but Original Medicare doesn’t cover all healthcare costs. Many people add a Medicare Supplement plan and/or Part D for prescription drugs.
Medigap plans help cover out-of-pocket costs not paid by Original Medicare, like copayments and deductibles. They require a separate monthly premium.
A Medicare Advantage plan is a private insurance plan that bundles hospital, medical, and usually drug coverage, often with extra benefits like dental or vision.
No, you must choose either Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare with a Supplement plan; you cannot have both at the same time.
Plan Changes & Flexibility
Yes, you can change plans during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15–December 7) or during certain Special Enrollment Periods if you qualify.
Spouse & Employer Coverage
No, Medicare coverage is individual. Your spouse must enroll separately when eligible.
You may keep it if you continue working, but Medicare may be the primary or secondary payer depending on employer size. Check with your employer’s benefits office.
Doctors & Providers
Original Medicare is accepted by most doctors, but some may not participate. Medicare Advantage plans have networks, so confirm your doctors’ participation.
Additional Coverage & Benefits
Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental care. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer dental benefits.
Medicare covers short-term skilled nursing care after a qualifying hospital stay but does not cover long-term custodial care.
Retiree Benefits & Other Programs
Yes, most retiree plans require Medicare enrollment at 65 to maintain coverage. Medicare usually becomes the primary payer.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program mainly for people 65+ or with certain disabilities. Medicaid is a state and federal program for low-income individuals and may provide additional coverage.