How do you approach educating clients who are new to Medicare versus those who are considering switching plans?

Question

Michelle Sparks · Accepted Answer

For my Turning 65 clients, I start with the ABC's of Medicare so that they understand the basics of Original Medicare. I want them to understand the differences between Original Medicare, Medicare Supplements, and Medicare Advantage plans so they are confident in making good decisions. Specifically, what gaps they want to supplement with a Medicare Supplement or what benefits they want to replace with a Medicare Advantage Plan. I also spend a good bit of time educating them on what they need to know if they plan to work past 65. The average retirement age is now well beyond 66, so comparing employer group health plan benefits to Medicare is a critical step in the decision making process. I want to ensure seniors set themselves up for success down the road, which includes the best coverage for the best price- and to avoid potential late penalties. 

For my clients that are considering switching plans, because I am a broker that represents all major carriers, I routinely monitor any changes in their health/financial situation against the changes that the carriers are making. Each year carriers make changes, and each year I ensure all my clients have a complete review of their current plan, so they can compare and make changes if needed- leaving them with the confidence that they know they are in the best possible plan for them.

Gary Church · Answer

By approaching individuals, whether somebody is new to Medicare or they're currently on Medicare and have questions or want to understand how Medicare works, my approach is to understand what their current situation is and what their future situation may be as far as their health and where they live. That has a key part. But also, do you want to be able to manage your own health care, or do you want the insurance company to manage your health care? There's pros and cons to any health plan, but when it comes to Medicare, Medicare itself, Part B, is a very good health plan. But there are some costs within those plans.

So when it comes down to whether or not you want to be able to control your own health care, staying with original Medicare and buying a Medicare supplement if you're in a rural or metropolitan area, a lot of people are attracted to Medicare Advantage plans because they include Part B, and that also includes the drug plans. The best thing to always do is sit down with a licensed agent who can actually look at your options and help you determine what is the right plan for you. One plan's perfect for everyone. It really comes down to the individual.

As far as what's most important to you when it comes to health care, it's understanding, and you want to control your own health care. Do you want the insurance company to control your health care? A lot of these medical Medicare Advantage plans go from January 1st to December 31st. So whatever they offer this year could be different next year. With being on retail Medicare, the Medicare supplements are guaranteed for life. As long as you can pay those premiums, they do go up. They are guaranteed for six months. So those plans will increase each and every year as long as you can afford to pay them.

The best thing to do is to have the freedom to see the doctors you want to see that accept Medicare. So remember, when it comes to selecting a Medicare plan...

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

Hi, thanks for watching. So the question is, how do you approach educating people who are new to Medicare versus someone that's just wanting to switch plans? When somebody's new to Medicare, typically they're turning 65 or leaving a group employer plan. They don't really, many times, most times, they don't have a real in-depth knowledge of how Medicare works. The way it works is when you have your Part A and Part B, that's the point you have to decide, do you wanna go with a Medicare Supplement with a drug plan or do you wanna go with a bundled product, like Medicare Advantage, that rolls up your A, B, and drug plan all in one? It's a very different conversation because people are not used to navigating the Medicare system. The coverage is typically a lot better than what they're used to, and they're just not sure of which way to go. You kinda have to do a little more hand-holding, if you wanna call it that, with people just turning 65. Some people are very knowledgeable about it, but the Medicare brokers have typically, hopefully, done this a long time. They know what direction to go and the right questions to ask. They do a needs analysis to figure out what works best for people because everybody's different. I have some couples where one, the husband's on a Medicare Advantage plan, and the wife's on a supplement plan. It just depends on what works for them. But they came to that fork in the road. They had the A and B, and one went one direction, one went the other. So it really depends.

Mike Alexander · Answer

I try to do a needs assessment to see what is important to you.
Medicare is confusing, and I try to educate you on how medicare works, the different parts, when to enroll to avoid any penalty, and to educate you on the different plans. Medicare has and which are best suited for you.
If you are a client who is switching plans
I look at carriers' 5-year rate history, client service reputation, carriers' AM best rating, and, of course, current rates.

Mark Bilgere · Answer

If someone is new to Medicare I spend time explaining how Traditional Medicare works. Then, I explain the choices available to fill the gaps. Then, I ask questions to find out what the client needs the most and what they feel is most important. Finally we talk about next steps. 
For someone already on Medicare, I ask them how their plan has been working for them. I find out if there have been any major changes in their health or if other needs have changed. If they are happy and everything is working fine, we stay the same. If they need or want to look at other options, we do that.

Daniel Brechin · Answer

Very first what do you like or dislike the program you are currently on
Once established I try to offer that family a program that fits their needs.

Norman Smith · Answer

You certainly expect that experience helps those already covered, and they have lived through the wars and wonders of the medical world. So you can speak as to real life experiences and what may be different with their situations against the current plan.
Those who are new to Medicare hear so many different things from different people that they are often times confused. People speak of their own experiences as facts across the board and too often that is not the case. So you lay out the options available to them as new and having NO UNDERWRITING involved, and how each would best serve or least serve their needs. From there, once they’ve been educated, it becomes their choice to buy from you what they feel is the best plan.

Lt Col Tim Brown · Answer

I take people through the basics. Take the government speak out of it and people can get their arms around it. It doesn’t have to be made complicated.

Terri Reagin · Answer

People who are new to Medicare typically do not have any idea how it works so I try to offer the generic overview of how it all comes together first so they have a better understanding of what product they might want to look at. When someone is coming to the table with a clear cut agenda (plan change) then I am going to perform an analysis of what is making them want to make that change? If they are unhappy with the current plan, why? What features are they looking for in the new plan? It is kind of two different customers.

Answered by Terri Reagin on November 30, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK, AR, CO & 6 other states

Answered by Terri Reagin Medicare Insurance Agent

Richard Moreno · Answer

I approach bothe the same, I don’t assume they know everything about their options and how Medicare works. I make sure they are as educated as possible so that they make an educated decision and not a decision based on what an agent tells them.

Answered by Richard Moreno on June 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, CA, FL, LA, NM & OH

Answered by Richard Moreno Medicare Insurance Agent

James Carlson · Answer

If not sure you have the best plan, I would verify the current plan vs some new options. I would explain that some plans may not have wide network, while other plan may better cover your needs. Should you keep it is your decision.

Answered by James Carlson on March 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in MN

Answered by James Carlson Medicare Insurance Agent

Paul Potter · Answer

Hello. This is Paul Potter with Florida Independent Insurance Consultants, and today I'm talking about should I stay or should I go? Usually, I have this conversation when somebody is trying to decide whether to stay on their group coverage or leave it and go onto Medicare. But today we're talking about having Medicare and maybe making a decision to go back to group coverage. Maybe I've got a great job offer and they've got great coverage, and it doesn't make sense for me to stay on both. Or possibly my income-related Medicare adjustment amount is much higher than what I expected it to be. So should I stay or should I go? There is a form, 1763, that can be used to turn off Medicare Part B whenever you're ready. So should I stay or should I go? It's always worth looking at. You can always give me a call if there's ever a question.

Darlene Murphy · Answer

There is not mych difference in the education approach, having an Advisor looking at multiple options is the key to proper understanding and communication.

Ravi Natarajan · Answer

I take the time to explain "How Medicare Works" by going into the different Parts and the pathways to cover the gaps in coverage and get Prescription Drug Coverage, for those clients who are new to Medicare. 
Complete your profile so I can assist you
After that, schedule an Appointment.
Regards,
Ravi

Dutch VanHoesen · Answer

People that are new to Medicare require much more time and explanation regarding how Medicare works and what their options are. People who already have Medicare and are just switching plans usually know what they want however people switching plans do require occasional updates and re-education about how things work.

Answered by Dutch VanHoesen on April 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Dutch VanHoesen Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Caldwell · Answer

In my experience, it's often the same thing. I have found that most people who have been on Medicare for a while still don't really understand it or understand what they have, and so I don't ever assume a potential client knows and understands Medicare or what they have through it. Every so often, you get the rare individual who has done their homework, but for the most part, I'm starting out with a potential new client, whether new to Medicare or not, by educating them about Medicare in general and specifically what they have and are looking at getting.

Answered by Michael Caldwell on June 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in IN, AL, AR & 31 other states

Answered by Michael Caldwell Medicare Insurance Agent

Jay Larshus · Answer

Clients who are new to Medicare need to be educated on the differences between Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage plans. They also need to understand the enrollment periods and the guaranteed issues guidelines.

Answered by Jay Larshus on April 8, 2025

Agent Licensed in TN & VA

Answered by Jay Larshus Medicare Insurance Agent

Sarah Rollins · Answer

I always have a Medicare 101 with my clients that are new to Medicare. We discuss original Medicare, Medicare Supplements, and Medicare Advantage. We go over their unique set of needs, and I can make recommendations based on that. When a client comes to me wanting to switch plans, I still go through and find out about their needs. I also check in to make sure they understand the plan they're currently on, and then we explore why they want to switch and what they think/hope they will gain by switching.

Answered by Sarah Rollins on June 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO, AZ, CA, ME, SC & TN

Answered by Sarah Rollins Medicare Insurance Agent

Thomas Ashton · Answer

First, I would like to find out what they dislike about their current plan. Second, What the person is looking for in a new plan and if a new plan will meet their needs.

Andrew Bennett · Answer

When you are new to Medicare I use a flow chart directly from one of the official Medicare books to help people understand their options.  For clients who are in Medicare and thinking of changing plans the first step is to review their current benefits and network.  After that I ask questions to find out if changing plans actually fixes the problem they have.  Most of the time their current plan is just fine and there are details they haven't been reminded of in a while.  

Leaving someone in a plan where the enrollment was done by someone else doesn't earn me any commission, but it's the right thing to do quite often.

Anna J Smith · Answer

I like to educate all Medicare beneficiaries with facts printed from Medicare directly and I spend as much time necessary to help clients understand what their healthcare options are.

Steven Bleicher · Answer

That's an easy one: Those veterans of the Medicare wars had better been explained at age 65 all of the ins & outs of Medicare since it is so very quirky. If I question these veterans and they simply don't recall having been taught what I consider to be "properly", I will treat those seniors just as I would with those first entering Medicare. As a longtime agent, I tell folks that there simply is no "cookie-cutter" means of teaching & advising Medicare. "Simply the rules, madam, simply the rules".

I teach Medicare at the local university every year for the past decade right before the Annual Open Enrollment period which should be close enough for everybody to "get the gist" of the 80% - 20% rule. That is: if you're having a procedure in a hospital (In-patient) that comes under the heading of Medicare's Part A (no cost/month usually), then Part A pays the 80% and your secondary pays most or all of the remaining 20%. BUT, if you're receiving treatment in a doctor's free-standing surgical center (Out-patient), the 80% is paid for by Medicare's Part B (has a monthly premium) with the remainder coming from your secondary insurance. 

Constantly, I remind folks that there are basically THREE aspects of Medicare that you'll be paying for: A) your monthly Part B "Premium Payment" which is predicated on your 2-year old tax return on the line that is called your "Adjusted Gross Income". There is an "IRMAA" Income chart on Medicare.gov showing the most common (= the least amount in 2025 at $185.00 per month). This can be withdrawn from your Social Security Direct Deposit if you've begun to collect your SS entitlement., B) there is a one-time per year Part B "Deductible" which is $257.00 in 2025, and C) whether you've chosen a Medicare Supplement (which has a monthly premium) or a Medicare Advantage plan (the latter of which is free since it is government-subsidized). Then, depending upon which of the many plans are chosen, that will dictate your entire monthly money outlay.

Diana Garner · Answer

When meeting with clients who are new to Medicare, I start by explaining how Medicare Parts A & B work. I then explain how Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplements, and Standalone Prescription Drug plans work.  I also explain how other supplemental/ancillary plans work, such as dental, vision, hearing, hospital indemnity, home health care, etc. After explaining all options, I make a list of doctors, facilities, and medications to narrow down their options, then go over premiums, max out-of-pocket, copays, coinsurance, and benefits so they can make an educated decision on which option is best for them.

When meeting with a client who is already on Medicare and is considering changing plans, I make a list of doctors, facilities, and medications they are on, then I compare their plan to other plans available to them. We review the plan options together, and I make sure they are educated on the benefits for them to make a decision on which is best for them.

Kristen Skinner · Answer

The same I go over searching for their doctors and their drugs to make sure they have the right plan. And make sure they know the plan they are choosing or switching to is the right plan for them.

Leslie Kaz · Answer

Start with the basics.

Clarify penalties and timelines.


Use real-life examples.


Introduce options.


Provide written summaries.

Michael Pyers · Answer

We go over all the alternatives, as we are a broker not just an agent.  Everything is tailored to the needs of the client.

Barbara Barnes, CMIP® · Answer

I start every meeting / conversation by asking questions so that I can gauge how to best-help my client. Every client is different with different needs and concerns. At the end of the meeting, I keep asking questions until I’m satisfied that my client has received and understands the information they want / need to make good choices.

Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® on June 4, 2025

Agent Licensed in PA

Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® Medicare Insurance Agent

Rick Boyd · Answer

For a client that is new to medicare, I first explain what original Medicare A and B covers, and what it does not cover, along with the costs involved. After the potential client understands the basics of Original Medicare, I explain the various coverage options and general costs including adding part D only, Supplement plans plus part D, and Advantage plans, along with asking them what they are looking for in a healthcare plan. If they choose to explore further, after securing a SCOPE of appointment, I ask more specific questions to find a plan(s) that best meet their needs.

Answered by Rick Boyd on September 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in KY, AZ, CA & OH, TN, TX & UT

Answered by Rick Boyd Medicare Insurance Agent

Barbara Patterson, CFP · Answer

I provide an educational kit to each new customer that is new to Medicare.  I then go thru the kit to explain the process and the steps of what I can do to help them.

Frank Woerner · Answer

Clients new to Medicare, depending on their knowledge, I start with the basics such as what Medicare Part A & B cover along with the 80% max level limit. Clients switching plans must consider the pro's and con's of switching. If a Medigap plan, it may need to be underwritten. Certain plans such as Part C Advantage plans have enrollment periods that must be followed.

Answered by Frank Woerner on April 27, 2026

Broker Licensed in IN & IL

Answered by Frank Woerner Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Wallner · Answer

Understanding the basics of Medicare Insurance is key to selecting the option that meets your needs best. Educating clients on the basics and the various options should be an in-person meeting whenever possible. This education may require several meetings. It is key that your clients understand their options and related risks and costs. This process should not be rushed through with new clients. Plan an initial meeting and follow-up to answer the many questions that are likely to develop after the initial meeting.

Answered by Michael Wallner on December 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in DE, MD & NY

Answered by Michael Wallner Medicare Insurance Agent

Brian Leichner · Answer

At Pro Insurance Resources, we teach our agents how to educate Medicare beneficiaries using a Medicare compliant education process. The beauty is that it takes about 8 minutes and is very clear. Many say they've attended 1.5 hour meetings and left more confused than educated. We frequently hear people say, "Now I understand". That means they know what they have, what their choice means and why they make their enrollment choices. This leads to long term client satisfaction. We also use State of the Art technology to shop all plans in the market each year to assure clients continue to have the coverage that best matches their particular needs.

Answered by Brian Leichner on April 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in NE, AZ, CO & IA, KS, MO & TN

Answered by Brian Leichner Medicare Insurance Agent

Robert Jones · Answer

There is very little difference in terms of the different options that clients have. For someone new to Medicare educating them on the process of working with Medicare for the first time is our priority. Generally plan options do not very between somebody new to Medicare or somebody going through a renewal.

Answered by Robert Jones on October 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in CT

Answered by Robert Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

David Tom Rankin · Answer

More of how Medicare and the plan works for the new folks. Switching plans involves why the current plan (and everything that entails) is unsatisfactory compared to how the switched plan would be better.

Answered by David Tom Rankin on October 11, 2025

Agent Licensed in IN

Answered by David Tom Rankin Medicare Insurance Agent

Gary Henderson · Answer

Keep it simple. Go over medicare coverage basics. how it works, how/when to enroll. What if you are still going to be employed, using employer health coverage etc. 
Depends on the situation of the client. Then formulate an answer / plan.

Mary Brown · Answer

For clients new to Medicare, focus on explaining the basics: Parts A & B, coverage gaps, preventive services, and options like Medigap or Medicare Advantage. For those considering switching plans, highlight comparing costs, networks, and prescription coverage, plus any Special Enrollment Periods. In both cases, it helps to work with a licensed agent who can educate you and guide plan selection.

Answered by Mary Brown on March 30, 2026

Broker Licensed in NJ, DE, FL & NC, OH, PA & TX

Answered by Mary Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

Carol Thompson · Answer

I have additional & specific questions I ask the new to Medicare clients. Those questions determine the next step in preparations.

Suzanne Lamperti · Answer

I go through the parts of Medicare. If he/ she are considering switching plans, I ask about what problems he/she are experiencing and go through the plan options with him/her. Education is the key.

Todd Bostic · Answer

People new to Medicare sometimes aren't aware that they can only enroll at certain times of the year and you must enroll in a plan that would be beneficial to them during their initial enrollment and they are Guaranteed to get into a Medicare Supplement if they want, where someone thinking about switching has to go through underwriting if they are currently on a Medicare Advantage plan and want to get a Medicare Supplement. I believe the more education you have the better it is for you.

Answered by Todd Bostic on June 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AZ & 12 other states

Answered by Todd Bostic Medicare Insurance Agent

Eizel Mere · Answer

There is no distinction. Most of the people I sit with who have had Medicare for years do not know how it works and do not know what things are not covered by Medicare. I explain it the same way and answer questions. People who are turning 65 are able to decide if they would like to start with a supplement and prescription drug plan or an advantage plan. I go over their health, doctors and prescriptions; What is most important for the client to get out of their plan and finally we go over the top plans available to them in their area (zip code).

Answered by Eizel Mere on February 16, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Eizel Mere Medicare Insurance Agent

Brent Mowery · Answer

The approach is similar. I assume potential clients and current clients don't know anything. Education is critical and builds trust. Don't shortcut educating your clients; the more they know and understand, the better they feel about making decisions.

Answered by Brent Mowery on October 3, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK, CO, NC & TX

Answered by Brent Mowery Medicare Insurance Agent

Ken Banks · Answer

New or old,  I make sure they all know the basics of Medicare and options available to them. There is alot of misleading info out in the Medicare world so I ensure they have the correct knowledge.

Amy Jones · Answer

The best way to approach clients who are new to Medicare is to explain the various types of plans available, the way each type of plan works (Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap, etc), and once the client decides which type of plan they want, it gives an agent the ability to better understand the needs of the client and the type of plan that works best for them. From there, the agent can help them find a plan that is suitable to their specific circumstances.

Answered by Amy Jones on February 23, 2026

Broker Licensed in WV, AL, AZ & 29 other states

Answered by Amy Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

John L Herman Jr · Answer

People new to MEDICARE need to understand all of their options teaching them about budget, risk, which Doctors they use accept which Plans, Prescription coverage ad more. Those already under a Plan need to see what has changed from Carriers on the MEDICARE ADVANTAGE side and about price changes on the MEDIGAP side.

Answered by John L Herman Jr on March 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in MD, DE & PA

Answered by John L Herman Jr Medicare Insurance Agent

Kevin Chaikin · Answer

In both cases we are reviewing Medicare 101 because even someone currently on a plan doesn't speak Medicare everyday. We make sure to cover the ABC's again and Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage and do a full needs assessment. We then are making a formal recommendation based on their new to Medicare needs or their current coverage needs. There's no reason to assume a current Medicare beneficiary won't benefit from the re-education - they may have been mis-educated in the first place!

Answered by Kevin Chaikin on April 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in VA, AL, AZ & 31 other states

Answered by Kevin Chaikin Medicare Insurance Agent

Jeremy Watson · Answer

The education is very similar; I make sure the clients understand the difference in coverage types. 

For a new enrollee, this means explaining both Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans, how they work, and all the benefits they offer. Since they are new enrollees, I also explain how moving from coverage types works, when it can happen, and let them know they have guaranteed issue on any coverage type they choose. I use information gathered to offer the best recommendation I can, as well as the why behind it.

For a current enrollee, it is comparing their current coverage type to the other coverage type available. If they have had claims with their current coverage, I can use those as examples of how the other coverage would have "acted" in that situation. I explain how and when moving coverage would be allowed, the process of how that works, and also the steps we would take if they changed their mind about making changes. I still will offer suggestions and recommendations based on their situation. Depending on the situation, I will be honest if making a change will not be able to be done.

Blaine Shipe · Answer

I personally like to ask a client if they want to pay as you go or pay monthly. There is no wrong answer. The budget may be the only difference in choice

Claudia Englert · Answer

I explain their options, a Medicare Supplement and a Prescription Drug Plan that keeps going up in premium as they age and a Medicare Advantage Plan & how it works where Medicare pays the insurance company money every month to take care of all of their healthcare needs, pays their claims and sends out a monthly Explanation of Benefits. I also tell them that with Original Medicare there's no maximum out of pocket where Medicare Advantage plans have a maximum out of pocket.

Answered by Claudia Englert on November 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Claudia Englert Medicare Insurance Agent

Diana Muhammad · Answer

Knowing which enrollment period the client qualifies for should help lead the conversation, informing them of their options. If they are considering switch, knowing why and what their current needs are should guide the conversation.

Answered by Diana Muhammad on September 23, 2025

Agent Licensed in IL, CA, FL & 8 other states

Answered by Diana Muhammad Medicare Insurance Agent

Kyra Baldwin · Answer

I like to make sure those who are new to Medicare understand exactly how the enrollment process works, what important dates they need to keep in mind, and potential penalties, as well as what resources are available to them.

Whether someone is new to Medicare or just switching plans, I review their options and make sure the plans I'm recommending meet each individual's specific needs.

Mark Summers · Answer

Typically i use a two interview process for those who are new to Medicare. The majority of the initial meeting is to help my future client understand core principles. How original Medicare works. How Part D works. How Medigap plans work with Medicare versus replacing Medicare with a Medicare Advantage plan. The second meeting is our decision meeting. 

For those wishing to switch plans. We do a quick review as i fill in the gaps based upon their understanding. Once i am comfortable they understand the pros and cons of their decision; then we take action to "switch".

Derek Warren · Answer

Education with newer clients is more thorough. The objective is to educate these clients more so they understand the ins and outs. For people that are new it’s more about understanding their concerns and questions with their current plan. Once you identify these you’re able to show them what’s available in their service area.

Answered by Derek Warren on October 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH & MI

Answered by Derek Warren Medicare Insurance Agent

Shannon Brenneke · Answer

I have a handout that explains how and when to enroll in Medicare A&B, and also explains the differences between Med Supp and Med Advantage. I use this during meetings and make notes for them as we go regarding each subject, on their handout.

Answered by Shannon Brenneke on May 19, 2025

Agent Licensed in MO

Answered by Shannon Brenneke Medicare Insurance Agent

Cynthia Haworth · Answer

I like to tell clients that I want at least an hour of your time and more to answer your questions. I need as much time as you spend each year planning your vacation. But this may be a lifetime decision. With catalogs in person or sent email, I go over what Medicare covers. What Part A covers and what Part B covers. Then I show the difference in a Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage plans. You will have catalogs and brochures to refer to. After I enroll a client, they can call, text, or email me any time with questions or problems. I can help them find new Specialists, Doctors, and/or Dentists. Or I can look up a new prescription for the costs.

Answered by Cynthia Haworth on February 3, 2026

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Cynthia Haworth Medicare Insurance Agent

Aaron Lewis · Answer

New to Medicare I will show you the different programs that are available. It is important to understand the differences between a Medicare Advantage Plan and a Medicare Supplement plan and how they work. Choosing the right program is very important.

Answered by Aaron Lewis on May 12, 2025

Agent Licensed in NJ

Answered by Aaron Lewis Medicare Insurance Agent

Annmarie Earehart · Answer

The approach is a little different depending on where someone is in their Medicare journey, but the goal is always to make things clear, simple, and personalized.

1. For Clients New to Medicare

Start with the basics: I explain what Medicare is, the difference between Parts A, B, C, and D.

Focus on timelines: We go over the Initial Enrollment Period, penalties to avoid, and what steps they need to take first (like enrolling in Parts A & B).

Use plain language: Instead of jargon, I break it down into real-life examples, like how a hospital stay or prescription would be covered.

Decision framework: I walk them through their two main paths—Original Medicare with a supplement + Part D versus a Medicare Advantage plan—and explain the pros and cons of each. 

Cost comparison: I often make side-by-side charts showing them what the cost would be with a Medicare Supplement vs a Medicare Advantage plan so they can see the numbers clearly.

2. For Clients Considering Switching Plans

Focus on what’s changing: Instead of reviewing the entire Medicare system again, I look at their current coverage, what they like about it, and where the pain points are (costs, doctors, prescriptions, extra benefits).

Review updates: I highlight new plan options, changes in drug formularies, or network differences for the upcoming year.

Cost comparison: I often make side-by-side charts showing their current plan versus alternatives, so they can see the numbers clearly.

Reassurance: I remind them that it’s normal to re-evaluate each year during Annual Enrollment, and that my role is to make sure they’re not paying more than they need to or missing out on coverage they value.

Wendy Zapata · Answer

Good morning 
Every person has a different set of needs. I have a conversation with each individual and let them know what plans are available to them in their County. I break this down for them including network choices if this is important. This applies to the “new to MediCare” as well as folks wanting a plan change or options.

Jerrid Ehlinger · Answer

By acting as a trusted advisor, you help prospects deeply understand their own pain points, learn about available solutions, and make informed choices, which naturally builds trust and drives long-term

Answered by Jerrid Ehlinger on May 26, 2026

Agent Licensed in MI

Answered by Jerrid Ehlinger Medicare Insurance Agent

Jaime Avery · Answer

When educating clients who are new to Medicare, I like to start with the very basics and help them understand the different parts of Medicare and how they work.  I go over the different enrollment periods and the enrollment deadlines to they know what they can do and when.  I also make it a point to review their health concerns and needs to make sure that as we review the various plans available, we can also discuss how this fits their health make up.  After reviewing their needs, we discuss the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplements and how each would work for them.  I make sure to address any concerns or questions, and I keep things transparent and I make sure they understand that I am there for them.

When educating clients who are considering switching plans, I like to find out why they are looking to switch and first of all determine if we find a solution to their issue just in case switching is not necessary.  If after we discuss their needs and concerns, and we find that we definitely need to make a switch then I review the plans available in their area that match what they're looking for.  I will also do a side by side comparison of their old plan to make sure that their decision is final.

I am going to be transparent with any client that I speak with, and really get to know them first.  I love building relationships and not just making clients, so I make it a point to stay in touch make sure they're okay through out the year.

How do you approach educating clients who are new to Medicare versus those who are considering switching plans?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Related Questions

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website

How do you approach educating clients who are new to Medicare versus those who are considering switching plans?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Related Questions

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website