Who is this page for?
- ✓You're turning 65 in the next year and don't know where to start.
- ✓You're retiring and leaving employer health coverage after 65.
- ✓You already have a Medicare plan but your doctors, drugs, or costs changed.
- ✓You're helping a parent who prefers to talk in Spanish or Haitian Creole.
What are the parts of Medicare?
Medicare comes in four parts. You don't need to memorize them, but knowing the basics makes every plan conversation easier.
- Part A, hospital insurance. Covers hospital stays. Free for most people who worked 10+ years in the U.S.
- Part B, medical insurance. Covers doctor visits and outpatient care. In 2026 the standard premium is set by Medicare each year and deducted from most Social Security checks.
- Part C. Medicare Advantage. Private plans that bundle A, B, and usually drug coverage, often with extras like dental and vision.
- Part D, prescription drug coverage. Standalone drug plans, usually paired with Original Medicare.
Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement, which path fits you?
This is the choice most people call us about. Both are good products, for different people. Here's the honest comparison.
| Medicare Advantage | Medicare Supplement | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly premium | Often $0 in South Florida (you still pay Part B) | Typically $150–$300+ in Florida, plus Part B and a drug plan |
| Doctors | Plan network (HMO/PPO); referrals may apply | Any doctor in the U.S. who takes Medicare |
| Costs when you use care | Copays per visit, up to a yearly out-of-pocket max | Little to nothing after Medicare pays (most plans) |
| Extras | Often dental, vision, hearing, OTC allowances | None, buy dental/vision separately |
| Best fit if… | You want low premiums and your doctors are in network | You want maximum freedom and predictable costs, and can budget the premium |
When can you enroll in Medicare?
Deadlines matter more in Medicare than almost anywhere else in insurance. Missing one can mean lifelong penalties.
- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): 7 months around your 65th birthday, 3 months before your birthday month, your birthday month, and 3 months after.
- Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 – December 7 every year. Change Advantage or drug plans for January 1.
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: January 1 – March 31. One switch allowed if you're already on an Advantage plan.
- Special Enrollment Periods (SEP): Triggered by events like moving or losing employer coverage.
What Medicare mistakes should you avoid?
- Missing Part B when you should take it. The late penalty is 10% per year missed, for life.
- Skipping drug coverage because you take no medications. Part D also carries a permanent late penalty. A cheap plan protects you.
- Choosing a plan without checking your doctors. A $0 premium doesn't help if your cardiologist is out of network.
- Assuming you can get a Supplement plan anytime. After your first 6 months on Part B, Florida carriers can review your health and say no.
- Enrolling from a TV ad or cold call. National call centers don't know Miami networks. Local, licensed help is free.
Medicare questions we hear every week
Does it cost anything to get Medicare help from Viva?
No. Our guidance is free. Carriers pay licensed agents, and your premium is exactly the same whether you enroll through us or on your own.
Do I have to take Medicare at 65 if I'm still working?
Not always. With creditable coverage from an employer with 20+ employees, you can usually delay Part B without penalty. The rules hinge on employer size, check before your birthday.
Can I switch between Advantage and a Supplement later?
You can switch during enrollment windows, but moving to a Supplement later usually requires health underwriting in Florida, and you can be declined. Your first choice at 65 matters.
Which Medicare carriers does Viva represent?
We represent major carriers in South Florida including Humana, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and Mutual of Omaha. We don't offer every plan in your area, and we'll tell you when another option deserves a look.
Ready to compare your Medicare options?
A 15-minute call is usually enough to know your best path. English, Español, oswa Kreyòl.
Related reading: Medicare Advantage in depth · Medicare Supplement (Medigap) in depth · Not 65 yet? See Marketplace health plans