Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals age 65 and older, and for certain younger individuals with disabilities. It helps cover hospital care, medical services, and prescription drugs.
2. What are the different parts of Medicare?
Medicare is divided into four parts:
- Part A– Hospital Insurance
- Part B– Medical Insurance
- Part C- Medicare Advantage- An alternative way to receive Medicare Benefits through private insurance companies.
- Part D– Prescription Drug Coverage
3. What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap)?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans bundle hospital, medical, and often prescription coverage into one plan. These plans may include additional benefits such as dental, vision, and hearing.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans help cover out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and coinsurance when you stay on Original Medicare (Parts A & B).
The right option depends on your health needs, doctors, prescriptions, and budget.
4. When can I enroll in Medicare?
You can enroll during:
• Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) – Begins 3 months before your 65th birthday and ends 3 months after.
• Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) – October 15 to December 7 each year.
• Open Enrollment Period (OEP) – January 1 to March 31 (for Medicare Advantage changes).
• Special Enrollment Period (SEP) – Certain qualifying life events.
5. Do I have to enroll in Medicare at 65?
If you are already receiving Social Security benefits, you may be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B.
If you are still working and covered by employer insurance, you may be able to delay Part B without penalty. It’s important to review your situation carefully.
6. Does Watson Insurance charge for consultations?
No. Our Medicare consultations and plan reviews are provided at no cost to you. We are compensated by insurance carriers if you enroll in a plan.
7. Are you affiliated with Medicare or the government?
No. Watson Insurance is an independent insurance agency and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
8. How do I know which plan is right for me?
We review:
• Your preferred doctors
• Your prescriptions
• Your budget
• Your healthcare needs
• Your travel habits
Then we compare available plan options and explain them clearly so you can make an informed decision.
9. Can I change my Medicare plan later?
Yes. You can review and change plans during certain enrollment periods, such as the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) or if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
10. What if my doctor is not in network?
If keeping your doctor is important, we verify provider networks before you enroll. We can help you choose a plan that works with your preferred providers whenever possible.
11. What happens after I request information?
After you submit your information:
• A licensed agent will contact you to schedule a consultation.
• We will review your needs and available plans.
• You can decide whether or not to enroll.
There is no obligation.
12. How do I schedule a Medicare review?
You can:
• Call us directly
• Use our online contact form
• Book an appointment through our scheduling page
We offer flexible appointment options.
Watson Insurance is an independent insurance agency. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent multiple organizations that offer a variety of products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all available options.