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Navigating Medicare can be overwhelming due to the many coverage options, rules, and enrollment periods involved. That’s where a licensed Medicare agent can make a big difference. An agent helps clients understand their choices, compare plans, and select the coverage that best fits their healthcare needs and budget. Whether it’s Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Part D prescription drug plans, or Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies, an agent provides personalized guidance and support throughout the decision-making process. By working with an experienced agent, clients can feel more confident and informed as they choose the Medicare plan that’s right for them.

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Senior couple reviewing a Medicare brochure together while comparing Medicare coverage options with 77-Call-Pete.

Parts of Medicare

Which Part Of Medicare Coverage Is Best For Your Needs

A

Part A

Also known as hospital insurance. This is Original Medicare (through the government). This is for hospital inpatient care, skilled nursing facilities, home healthcare, and hospice care.

B

Part B

Also known as medical insurance. This is Original Medicare (through the government). This is for outpatient services, doctor visits, medical testing, lab services, prevenative care, and equipment.

C

Part C

Bundled plans that include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D from a private insurance company. Normally includes additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare.

D

Part D

Also known as prescription drug coverage. Each plan offers its own formulary and Tier per drug. Cost will vary based on plan, location, and carrier.

Gap

Medigap

This will fill the gaps that Original Medicare doesn't cover. Additional insurance that you can buy from a private company that helps pay your out-of-pocket costs.

Pete wearing a 77-Call-Pete logo shirt while standing by the lake, your local independent health insurance broker helping individuals, families, seniors, and businesses find the right coverage.

When it comes to Medicare, one size doesn't fit all. I take the time to understand your unique needs, explain your options in plain English, and compare plans from multiple insurance companies. As an independent broker, I'm able to shop the market to help you find the right coverage based on your doctors, prescriptions, budget, and healthcare goals. My goal is simple: to help you make a confident, informed decision and be your trusted Medicare advisor for years to come—not just during enrollment, but whenever you need guidance.

Choosing the right broker

What to look for, what to ask, and what to avoid when getting help with your Medicare coverage decisions.

Choosing Medicare coverage is one of the most consequential financial decisions you will make in retirement. A knowledgeable broker or agent can walk you through your options at no cost to you, but not all agents are equal. Understanding the difference between agent types, knowing the right questions to ask, and recognizing red flags will help you find someone who works in your interest.

Captive Agents vs. Independent Brokers

The single most important distinction in the Medicare agent world is whether the person you are speaking with is captive or independent. A captive agent is contracted with one insurance carrier, or a small group of carriers under common ownership. They can only sell plans offered by that company. Even if a competitor's plan would save you hundreds of dollars a year or include your preferred doctors, a captive agent cannot present it to you. An independent broker (sometimes called an independent agent or FMO-affiliated broker) holds contracts with multiple carriers, often ten or more. They can place your coverage with whichever company offers the best fit for your health situation, preferred doctors, medications, and budget. Because independent brokers earn a commission regardless of which carrier you choose, their financial incentive is to keep your business long-term by finding you the right plan, not to push any single brand. Before you spend time with any agent, simply ask: "How many insurance carriers are you contracted with?" One or two is a red flag. Eight or more is a good sign you are speaking with a truly independent broker.

Medicare Period

Medicare Initial Enrollment Period

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is your first opportunity to enroll in Medicare. It begins 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birth month, and ends 3 months after. If your birthday falls on the 1st of the month, your enrollment window starts and your coverage begins one month earlier. Enrolling before your 65th birthday helps avoid gaps in coverage and may prevent costly late enrollment penalties for Medicare Parts A, B, and D.

Medicare Special Enrollment Period

If you or your spouse continue working after age 65 and have creditable employer coverage, you may be able to delay enrolling in Medicare without penalties. When that coverage ends, you’ll typically qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), allowing you to enroll in Medicare without late penalties. You may also qualify for an SEP if you move outside your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan’s service area or experience certain life events. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, our licensed Medicare agents are here to help.

77‑Call‑Pete is a brand of Lake Life and Health, Inc., a licensed health insurance agency.

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Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 8 organizations which offer 75 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options. This is a proprietary website and is not associated, endorsed or authorized by the Social Security Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services or the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This site contains decision-support content and information about Medicare, services related to Medicare and services for people with Medicare. If you would like to find more information about the Medicare program please visit the Official U.S. Government Site for People with Medicare located at http://www.medicare.gov