If you're approaching 65 or helping a parent navigate Medicare, you already know the alphabet soup can be dizzying. Parts A, B, C, and D. Medigap. Medicare Advantage. Open enrollment windows. At Premier Insurance Group, our health benefits specialist Shannon Sebastion helps Oregon residents sort through the options every day — here's a plain-English overview to get you started.

Original Medicare (Parts A & B)

Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing, and some home health care. Most people pay no premium for Part A if they've worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services — and comes with a monthly premium.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

Original Medicare leaves gaps: deductibles, copays, and the 20% coinsurance on Part B services. A Medigap policy fills those gaps, giving you predictable out-of-pocket costs. Plans are standardized by letter (Plan G is the most popular), so the coverage is identical across carriers — the only difference is price.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers and bundle Parts A and B — often with Part D drug coverage and extras like dental and vision. They typically have lower premiums than Medigap but use provider networks, so you'll want to confirm your doctors are in-network.

Part D — Prescription Drug Coverage

If you choose Original Medicare plus a Medigap plan, you'll need a standalone Part D plan for prescriptions. Formularies and premiums vary widely, so it pays to compare plans based on your specific medications.

When to enroll

Your Initial Enrollment Period starts three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after. Missing it can mean permanent premium penalties, so mark your calendar.

Have questions about which plan fits your health needs and budget? Shannon is here to help — call us at 541-672-9414.