Getting started with Medicare
Information for people who are just getting started with Medicare. Includes information about whether you're eligible for Medicare, whether you get Medicare automatically, your Medicare coverage choices, and how Medicare works with other insurance.
Your Medicare coverage choices
There are 2 main ways to get your Medicare coverage — Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C). Use these steps to help decide how you want to get your coverage.
When & how to sign up for Part A & Part B
Find out how to get Part A and Part B: some people get Medicare automatically, but some don't and may need to sign up.
Apply for Medicare online
Apply online for Medicare on Social Security's website.
How to get drug coverage
Get Medicare prescription drug coverage either from a Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan offering Medicare prescription drug coverage
When can I join a health or drug plan?
Find out when you can sign up for or change your Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) or Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D).
Different types of Medicare Health Plans
Learn more about Medicare health plans, including Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Savings Account (MSA) Plans, Medicare Cost Plans, demonstration/pilot programs, Programs of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), and Medication Therapy Management (MTM).
Find health & drug plans
Find and compare drug plans, health plans, and Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policies.
Check your enrollment
Check your current or future Medicare enrollment.
Find & compare doctors, hospitals, & other providers
Hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, medical item suppliers, health care providers, health and drug plans, dialysis facilities