How do you educate clients who are completely new to Medicare?
Answered by 89 licensed agents
I give them a little history of Medicare and explain the two different ways one can take their Medicare coverage - either Original Medicare with a Supplement and a drug plan for the least restrictions, or a Medicare Advantage plan that also includes other benefits, like transportation, an over-the-counter (OTC) catalog, dental, vision, and more depending on their plans in their area.
First, do not get into selling them on your market ideas. Be clear and precise and make sure they understand all of Medicare’s options and coverage before any decisions are made. Serving on the Medicare advisory committees has given me an understanding of how complex and confusing people can become due to misleading agents in the field.
I have put together an easy to read Medicare Presentation that I share with all members. This helps answer many questions, explains the difference between Medicare Advantage & Medicare Supplements/ Part D Drug coverage. It shows How Medicare rates all the plans from 1 to 5 stars. The difference between HMO & PPO, and I also have a leave behind piece for members
WE have a power-point presentation explaining in detail how Regular Medicare works. We describe in detail what the Deductibles are for Part A and Part B and what the "out of pocket" costs are after Medicare pays its portion. We will always let clients know that Medicare on its own may OPEN them up to Major Financial losses due to their Health care costs. We then go through: Medicare Supplement/Medigap and Medicare Advantage Plans- the Pros and Cons of each plan. This allows the client to make their own decisions on what's best for them. The fact that we can offer both types of plans is a huge PLUS to our clients! Let us help YOU!
I help clients who are new to Medicare by taking the time to explain what Medicare is, what Medicare does and how it applies to the client. I email a primer on Medicare to clients early in the process which helps them understand Medicare and how to proceed.
When working with clients who are completely new to Medicare, I focus on making the process simple, clear, and stress-free by breaking it down into four key steps:
1.Understanding the Basics
I start by explaining:
* What Medicare is and who qualifies
* The four parts of Medicare (A, B, C, and D)
* The difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
2. Identifying Individual Needs
I ask questions to understand their healthcare needs, lifestyle, and budget, such as:
Do you take regular prescriptions?
Do you prefer flexibility in choosing doctors?
Do you travel often or live in multiple states?
3. Coverage Options
Once I know your needs, I walk you through:
* Medicare Supplement (Medigap) vs. Medicare Advantage
* Prescription drug plans (Part D)
* Out-of-pocket costs and ways to minimize expenses
4 Helping with Enrollment & Next Steps
I make sure they know their deadlines to avoid penalties and help them enroll in the right plan. I also offer ongoing support so they feel confident in their coverage.
I explain that all the info received is confusing. I will clearly explain your options and be sure you understand the difference between Advantage and Medicare Supplement plants.
My process includes gathering working through an descriptive workbook that includes introductions to the 2 types of Medicare insurance, information on enrollment periods, 10 things to know about "Medicare Advantage" and a broad look at Prescription Drug Plans. We then take time to answer any additional questions and move in to the Customer Review section or our appointment gathering drug list and Dr lists.
I personally like to physically draw out the A, B, C, D's of Medicare on paper to help create an understanding of part A and B as well as the additional options you have. I educate on all the available options specific to my client's needs so that way I help empower them to make a properly informed decision.
I like to go through the process of explaining the different parts of Medicare.Than I go through each part and break it down further as to what each part covers, how each part works in conjunction with each other. The differences between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplements. How Prescription Drug Plans work.
I educate clients who are completely new to Medicare by using a simplified process I’ve refined over the past 11 years. My goal is to break down the complexities of Medicare into clear, easy-to-understand explanations, ensuring clients can make informed decisions without feeling overwhelmed. I walk them through the key differences between Original Medicare, Medicare Supplements, and Medicare Advantage in a way that is straightforward and relatable.
In addition to one-on-one consultations, I also host quarterly Medicare education seminars called "What Baby Boomers Need to Know About Medicare." These seminars provide an open, informative space where seniors can learn about their options, ask questions, and gain the confidence they need to navigate their Medicare journey. Whether in a seminar setting or a personal meeting, my priority is always to empower clients with the knowledge they need to choose the best plan for their needs and budget—without unexpected surprises.
Charise Karjala educates clients who are new to Medicare by breaking down the complex system into clear, manageable parts. She starts by explaining the basics: what Medicare is, who qualifies, and the differences between Original Medicare (Parts A and B), Medicare Advantage (Part C), Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), and Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap).
Charise uses easy-to-understand language, avoiding heavy jargon, and encourages questions throughout the process. She often provides visual aids, handouts, or personalized summaries to help clients compare their options side-by-side. She walks clients through timelines—like when they need to enroll to avoid penalties—and helps them assess their personal healthcare needs and budgets to determine the most suitable plan.
Charise also stays patient and empathetic, recognizing that Medicare can feel overwhelming, especially for those transitioning from employer coverage or the individual market. She offers both in-person and virtual meetings, giving clients flexible ways to learn at their own pace. Her goal is to ensure clients feel informed, confident, and empowered to make decisions that best support their health and financial well-being.
When helping clients new to Medicare, I go over their current coverage. If they have a retirement plan, I recommend they discuss their need for Part B Medicare with their benefits administrator. I walk them through the process of applying for original Medicare. Even if I don't sign them up for a plan, my reward comes from knowing they know what to do!
If a client has no retirement plan, I educate them on Original Medicare and go over options for additional coverage. This includes Medicare Supplement as well as Medicare Advantage. If the client is low income, I also help them apply for extra help, so the financial burden of prescription costs is lightened.
I like to begin the conversation about Medicare a few months before my client turns 65 so they don't stress over the process. I'm also happy to help people who are already 65 and need assistance immediately.
There are many routes to educating clients new to Medicare. I have clients that either meet one on one and go through our Medicare Guide Packet, or they can attend any of one of our Free Educational Medicare Seminars. I truly believe its best to find a broker who can shop all the plans in your area to find the best option for their clients.
There is a lot to consider, and important decisions to be made. The best place to start is to determine where clients are at in terms of their Medicare knowledge, their experiences, and preferences. From there, I would normally make certain clients understand the nuts-and-bolts of Medicare (Parts A, B, C, D, and so on). With that foundation we would then want to determine eligibility and start to build a plan.
When I meet with a new Medicare client I review a Medicare checklist that shows the costs of Medicare and what is and is not covered.
Next I ask some basic questions to determine if they qualify for extra help or need to pay a higher premium for their part b and part d.
Then we review the options available and the differences between a Medicare supplement and Medicare advantage plans and determine which path they prefer.
I explain the differences between Medicare Supplements (Medigap) plans and the Medicare Advantage Plans (Part). We will also discuss the options with Medicare Part D. In addition, we will discuss he time frames involved with signing up for Medicare and the additional benefits.
We work with employers to hold a Medicare 101 educational seminar for their older employees so that person's experience that I outlined in the first question will not happen.
I show every client both Medicare options. You can go with the one card system of Medicare Advantage or the three card system of Original Medicare, plus Medicare Supplement and a Prescription Drug Plan. I have a simple way of showing both options. Even if a person insists they know what they want I show both because many are confused about the two options and you will always wonder what the appeal of the other option is if you don't understand both.
I first listen and ask questions to understand their Medicare needs. The next step is to match them with more than just one option, so they have choices.
I like to give them some basic facts about what Medicare does and doesn't do. I then like to get to know the clients' situation better so I can begin to personalize the information they need to make the best decision. There are a lot of factors that may affect the decision making process and it is important to touch on all of them.
I walk them through a presentation that explains original Medicare basics, what is covered and what is not. Then, I explain how to cover what original Medicare does not and the pros and cons of each solution. This allows the client to make an informed decision as to what they think works best for them. I educate and the client decides.
I created a Medicare 101 Webinar for people wanting to understand the basics in a jargon free, easy-to-follow breakdown that helps you understand your options in just minutes.
If you’re new to Medicare, it’s the perfect place to start!
I ask about their current circumstances including their medical needs and prescriptions. I identify available resources to assist them with Medicare enrollment and the insurance options available to them.
I start by explaining how Medicare works and how the pieces fit together. Then I illustrate the similarities and differences between options. This helps to create a package of personalized solutions, not just a list of plan options.
I help clients who are completely new to Medicare by first having a conversation about Medicare. It's just so I can get to know the client, when they are enrolling and what they need to know.
Then we take it to the next step which is to have them fill out a scope of appointment form (basically similar to a release form) so we can speak specifically about plan benefits and enrollment periods. I can send this over text or email and its really easy to fill out.
They can include their doctors, hospitals and prescriptions on the form and then I can identify the plans that best meet their needs before we get onto the next call.
The process is usually two calls but sometimes it takes three if the person needs some extra time. I also have content on my instagram page @aktivatedhealth
I take the time to start at the beginning and walk them through the whole process. Once they get their Medicare card, then we sit down and look at all the options available to them. One size does not fit all, every situation is different, so I personalize what options best suit their needs.
I talk with the client and gather information regarding their situation. I educate them on Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage Plans in their area.
When someone is brand new to Medicare it is critical to understand their current health, their risk tolerance, as well as their income and ability to pay premiums.
I always educate New to Medicare individuals on both options for additional coverage being Medicare Supplement (more costly, but generally better quality of care). Or. Medicare advantage (less costly upfront but consist of copays and max out of pocket).
I am happy to help anyone better understand the process and options of enrolling in Medicare. Many of my current clients called me months or years in advance of needing to enroll in Medicare to learn what they needed to do to properly enroll and cover their health insurance needs. We have a good talk about the steps and then I put them in my calendar to make sure I touch bases with them at an appropriate time in the future to help them through the process.
I have future clients in my calendar pipeline that won't be ready for Medicare for months or years to come. It's never too early to understand the steps you'll need to take when the time is right for you. Not doing so properly when the time comes could cost you in the form of penalties (that sometimes last a lifetime) or simply not getting the full benefits that are available to you by enrolling properly at the right time.
It's important to understand that using my services (I'm an independent insurance agent) doesn't cost you any more. I am compensated by the insurance companies when you enroll in a plan using my services. You can contact me at 801-550-1800 to answer questions that will help you go through this process properly.
I gather information to complete an Introduction to Medicare packet that is streamlined to their needs. The information is reviewed with them at their home; I educate, you decide.
The first thing to know is the basics of original Medicare. Explain part A explain part B and why a person may want or need a Medicare Drug approved plan. Explain the importance of enrollment periods. Lay out the difference between Medicare Supplement Plans and the very popular Medicare Advantage plans. Then we weigh out the pros and cons of each way to receive your Medicare coverage based on your needs now.
I start with the basics. I explain how Medicare works, including Part A & Part B, and that they need to have prescription drug coverage in some form, either with a PDP or in a Medicare Advantage plan. I then explain the options for picking up the difference either with a Medicare Supplement plan or Medicare Advantage.
I take into consideration what they currently have, what they like about it, and what they don't like. I also take into consideration the doctors that they see, and which ones they must have access to, their prescriptions, and budget.
We then come up with a plan that best meets their needs, all at no cost or obligation!
I gave seminars for years of people new to Medicare and how to navigate the Social Security site to apply for Medicare, (Part A, the Hospital coverage and the Part B the outpatient and Doctor coverage.)
I also answered many questions on Medicare and special situations on retirement plans and staying at work. Any questions , I'll make sure I answer with the right info needed,
I provide the client a copy of the Choosing a Medigap Policy booklet from CMS and go over the first 13 pages with them. This helps clients get a better understanding of Medicare basics.
Listen to their questions. Explain the differences between Parts A, B, C and D. Explain the differences between Medicare Supplemental plans and Medicare Advantage plans. Make sure beneficiaries understand the costs associated with the different plan coverages.
I start by having clients fill out a short questionnaire so I can understand their doctors, prescriptions, and healthcare needs. From there, I walk them through Medicare basics and break down their best plan options based on coverage and cost. My goal is to make Medicare simple and ensure they get the right plan for their needs.
I like to sit down in person and go over the basics, what parts do what and their costs. Then we talk about the 'fork in the road' regarding Medicare insurance. Either going with a Medicare Supplement plan and Part D Rx plan OR going with a Medicare Advantage plan. I go over the pro's and con's of each and then we can talk about specific plans in both categories.
I first review the benefits of Original Medicare Parts A and B. Then I explain the concept of the Part D Prescription plans. When those are understood by the client, then we discuss the benefits of adding a Medicare Supplement, Part D drug or a Medicare Advantage plan to the Original benefits. Explaining the benefits and limitations of these options is critical to helping clients make educated decisions. I focus educating the client, not selling products.
Since I've been a Medicare expert for years and voluntarily teach Medicare at the local university for both those new to Medicare or those who are already in Medicare but wish to take a refresher course based on the new calendar year with the inevitable $$ changes. Thus, I email prospects all of the digital files that I have developed for my classes in advance of visiting them or speaking with them over the phone.
Patiently! People react differently and so some are scared of what they don’t know, and to be “taken” or to miss out in making the best decision for themselves at this time. Having a professional who takes your approach, fears, anxieties, and questions with clarity and calmness to explain things, thoroughly, needs to be a mandate. Relate to them on their terms and give examples of real life and potentials.
Our company hosts both in person and online Medicare educational seminars on a weekly basis. The in person seminars are hosted at medical facilities and various hotels throughout the state of PA.
As a Medicare Broker reviewing the ABCD's of Medicare with my clients. I also have a You Tube video: Basics of Medicare.
Part A - Medicare Hospital Insurance
Part B- Medical Insurance
Part C- Medicare Advantage
Part D- Prescription Drug Coverage
*My clients are important to me - there is never a cost for my services. As your broker you will have lifetime support from me on more than just help selecting your Health plan but also: Carrier billing errors, rate shopping, appeals, Prescription coverages, local resources and SO much more.
Education is the start of building trust. Not just talking about Plans and options…but starting with guidance in applying for Medicare, whether to get both “A” and “B’…You must first educate the client on how your got to this point as a Broker. Some clients are still working and already have “credible” insurance and don’t need Part “B” yet.
Educate the client on who you are, why you are there…and then step-by-step methodically go through the application process and once the client has their Medicare Card…explain all options based on the client’s health, Doctors, Prescriptions, and budget to find the right Plan.
Every client is unique. Every client takes different meds, has unique health issues…and has resources or none that make budget issues a realty that a professional Broker can help give the client advice so that the client can make the most informed decision.
I personally sit down with new people and take them through the Medicare And You book and make sure they understand the differences in all the plans and options they have
I ask a couple questions, What do you know about Medicare, I have information to explain how it works. If they are planning on sign up for Social Security/Medicare ,I have a worksheet with a "How To'. A have a booklet on how Medicare works. I will sit down with my client.. We will discuss Medicare,
We sit down at their kitchen table or in my office and go over the ABCs of Medicare and we spend a couple of hours talking about how services are covered and what their needs are. We discuss the options available and how their needs are best served.
I begin by simplifying the concept of Medicare, explaining it as health insurance for people 65 and older. Next, I break down the different parts, like hospital coverage (Part A) and doctor visits (Part B), I use easy-to-understand terms. Visual aids and handouts help reinforce the information. Finally, I invite questions to make sure everything is clear and they feel confident navigating their options!
I go over every part of Medicare & how it works, We are able to offer most plans available in our area so that way the client has many choices to look at!
We sit down and breakdown on a sheet how each part works for them with a worksheet. Then i show how each type of coverage works with original medicare so that they may make the best decision for themselves.
At MediConnect we have several ways for New to Medicare folks to get more information. We have weekly seminars and Webinars. We have a first appointment process that takes the beneficary step by step what to expect when new to Medicare.
Part A is your hospital coverage, there is no charge for this, as you've paid for this your entire working career through payroll deduction. Part B is your doctor and outpatient coverage, and depending on your income, is technically A fixed rate monthly. Folks that have had a higher rate of income may be subject to pay more monthly for their part B. Medicare Part B covers 80%, so you would be responsible for the 20% that isn't covered, that's where having a Medicare Supplement plan is important, along with a Part D plan for your prescriptions. Folks that don't sign up for a Plan D are subject to a 1% monthly penalty for every month they don't have a Plan D prescription plan through the government.
We go through a brief slide show to educate them on how medicare works and what options are available to them....this helps them decide when presenting their options.
I use the chart that appears in the Medicare and You Handbook, which outlines in an easy-to-understand way, the option people have when going on Medicare. This chart gives me the chance to emphasize that I can provide insurance solutions for all these options. I consider myself a "one-stop-shop" for Medicare plans. I can also explain the other government program that operate alongside Medicare and encourage clients to enroll in these programs. There are a lot of moving pieces to enrolling in Medicare and the chart helps to put all the pieces together. This chart can be found on page 10 of the 2025 Medicare and You Handbook, which is mailed to all Medicare members annually.
I ask what they are wanting in a Medicare plan, who their doctors are, and the medications they take. I also explain the difference between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans as well as drug coverages.
I start by breaking Medicare down into simple terms, explaining the four parts (A, B, C, and D) and how they work together. Then, I walk clients through their coverage options, costs, and enrollment timelines, focusing on what matters most to their specific needs. I also provide easy-to-understand materials and encourage questions to ensure they feel confident in their choices.
It is important to explain how Medicare basics work to clients, before explaining the difference in secondary coverage levels. Knowing what Medicare does and does not cover helps to identify how you will use your health coverage. There are no good or bad plans, just have to find coverage that is going to be usable in how you want your healthcare to look like.
I have a flipbook that is short and to the point, while also being super easy to follow and understand. I explain how Medicare works, and the main two options people can choose between.
The Pro's and Con's are clearly laid out for you, and you make the decision on what makes most sense for your lifestyle! At no point do I charge for my expertise!
We always start with the Medicare basics! An overview of Medicare, all of the puzzle pieces they will need to have in place, and next steps. I always guide my clients through the entire process, from start to finish.
Education is huge when starting your Medicare. It's like you are in 1st grade and expected to take tests to graduate. I'm here to help navigate you through the tests and plan choices by individualized workshops in person, on the phone or over video, where we will compare coverage options, reflect upon your previous insurance experiences, and make a customized package designed to work for you, because its YOUR insurance. And I'll continually be here to answer questions, help with claims, and celebrate each year your insurance works for you.
I like to sit with clients face to face and go over how Medicare itself works. Then I like to go over their options on how they can use their Medicare to see what works best for them and their situation.
I start by explaining Medicare Parts A and B — what they cover and what they don’t. Then I walk them through their two main options: either add a Supplement and Part D, or go with a Medicare Advantage plan. I also make sure they understand how state rules can impact their choices. Every situation is different, so I keep it clear and personal.
The best way that I educate clients who are new to Medicare is having a meeting face-to-face. I can speak with them over the phone, during a Medicare 101 event or through something like zoom. Choosing the right Medicare plan and making sure all the I's are dotted and all the T's are crossed, face-to-face is best.
I like using materials that are published by the Federal government as a big part of my introductory meeting with a client. The government publishes a tremendous amount of useful and informative materials on just about evry Medicare topic. I have also taken the time to put together questionaires that I complete with new clients to find out what medications they are using and whether they have any doctors that are important to them. If a specialist or two are mentioned this gives me a track to question so far as the extent of the medical item the person might be experiencing.
I keep it simple in layman's terms. If they don't quite understand, I go over it again. I want to make sure that they are completely comfortable with the information received.
I educate my clients about Medicare by giving them 15 - 20 minutes to go over the complex aspects of Medicare and prescription drug coverage.
I try to build a plan that will suit my clients' lives and travel. We have a truly in-depth meeting. I have the ability to build a plan that is superior to their needs.
It is very important to explain policy details to any Medicare client. Medicare is overwhelming. Repeat if necessary. Slow down, and make sure they understand before you move on. This will gain trust and credibility.
We have a proven process called "Retirement by Design," in which our clients participate in designing their own retirement plans, from Health to Wealth. Through this process, we will discuss:
* Estate Planning:
- Wills
- Trusts
- Beneficiaries
- Tax Mitigation Strategies
* Retirement Planning:
- Health Coverage:
- Medicare Supplements or Advantage Plans
- How Life Insurance can provide LTC or provide basic final expenses
- How can we provide you with a guaranteed income
- Cover your LTC needs with a program that works for you.
Educating clients who are new to Medicare can be a daunting task, but I believe it's essential to empower them with knowledge to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
When working with clients who are completely new to Medicare, I take a step-by-step approach to ensure they understand the basics.
First, we start with the fundamentals:
1. What is Medicare, and how does it work?
2. The different parts of Medicare (A, B, C, D, and supplements)
3. Eligibility and enrollment processes
Next, we dive deeper into the specifics:
1. Understanding the costs associated with Medicare (premiums, deductibles, copays)
2. How to choose the right Medicare plan for their needs
3. The importance of timely enrollment to avoid penalties
Finally, we review and discuss:
1. How to navigate the Medicare system
2. Where to find additional resources and support
3. How to review and adjust their Medicare plan as needed
If you have questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please don't hesitate to reach out. You can call me directly at 407-244-6951.
I'm looking forward to helping you optimize your Medicare coverage and maximize your benefits!
First, I have to listen to their immediate healthcare needs. Then, I carefully and kindly walk them through the process step by step. I explain and compare all the plans which meet the needs of the client. After that, the client will have all the pertinent information to make an informed decision.
As a Medicare Specialist, I like to provide clients with easy-to-understand information about Medicare, including Parts A, B, C, D, and Medicare Supplements, taking the confusion out of the transition into Medicare. An educated client is a happy client, and providing them with the information they need to make an informed decision is vital.
New to Medicare clients are educated with a Medicare 101 discussion which includes explanation of all the parts of Medicare. Part A, Part B, Part D and Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans) and Medicare Supplement Plans.
Each Part of Medicare is explained regarding the costs, what is covered and how it works.
Other topics would include the timeframe for signing up for Medicare, The income-related monthly adjustment amount (IRMAA). The Medicare Savings Program guidelines and Part D Extra Help Program.
I educate clients who are new to Medicare by going over a presentation that I update yearly. I call it Medicare 101. In it, I go over what are the different parts to Medicare, Parts A, B, C, and D. When you are eligible to enroll, called initial enrollment period (IEP) and all of the special enrollment periods(SEPs). Who is eligible to enroll in Medicare, and how to enroll in Medicare. I offer to help if needed. Also, then I do a plan review, or ask them a series of questions. That will allow me to help them pick a plan that is right for the client, because one plan is not perfect for everyone. I explain the importance of looking up medications and offer to do that for the client as well as physicians, and pharmacy.
When I work with clients who are completely new to Medicare, I start by simplifying the process and focusing on what matters most to them. I break Medicare down into its basic parts A, B, C, and D then explain what each one covers in everyday terms, avoiding slang. I also help them understand important enrollment timelines and how costs like premiums, deductibles, and copays work.
Then, I take time to understand their personal health needs, budget, and any medications they take. This helps me guide them through their plan options and make sure they feel confident in their choices. I always remind them that there’s no such thing as a silly question. I’m here to support them every step of the way.
I start by educating what Medicare A and Medicare B cover and what gaps it leaves. Then I review how Medicare supplements and standalong drug cards work versus how Medicare advantage plans work. I discussed what people feel are the pros and cons of each. This helps people decide what fits their personal situation best.
I educate new Medicare recipients by fact finding first. I need to know where the person is in the process.
We are all unique and have different needs. I tailor my education to the beneficiary taking into consideration the budget, the needs, and the current lifestyle. I always let beneficiary's be aware that not every shoe fits every foot.
Thank you for your question. If you have another question please do not hesitate contacting me again. You may also go to www.medicare.gov to get additional information.