When it comes to Medicare, it's never too early to begin planning. This handy checklist will help you make the transition to Medicare. It will also help you to gather the information you need to make informed decisions about your health care and the costs associated with it. And remember, Physicians Mutual Insurance Company and Physicians Life Insurance Company are here to answer any questions you may have or to provide you with additional information you may need.

A Year to Six Months Before Your 65th Birthday
If you plan to continue working — take a careful look at your existing health insurance coverage. Will coverage continue if you continue to work? Or will you only be covered by Medicare? If you will be covered by Medicare only, check into purchasing a Medicare Supplement insurance policy.

If you plan to retire, research the benefits that Medicare does and does not provide. Check with your local library, Social Security Administration office or on the Internet. Your research will tell you what to look for in a Medicare Supplement insurance policy

Six Months Before Your 65th Birthday
Look into the several standardized Medicare Supplement insurance policies. What are benefits of each? Which benefits will you need most? Which benefits can you afford?

Three Months Before Your 65th Birthday
The initial enrollment period begins for Medicare Part B. You must be enrolled in Medicare Part B in order to qualify for Medicare Supplement insurance policies.

Narrow down your choices and select a Medicare Supplement insurance policy, from the insurance company that best suits your needs and preferences.

On Your 65th Birthday
Medicare benefits begin the first day of the month you turn 65. That means that if you are enrolled for Medicare Part B, this is the start of the six-month period where you don't have to answer any health questions if you apply at this time.

Three Months After Your 65th Birthday
If you haven't already enrolled in Medicare Part B, this is the last month you can do so at the current premium rate.

Six Months After You Enroll In Medicare Part B
The six-month period where you can apply for a Medicare Supplement insurance policy without answering any health questions ends now.



Source: Medicare information obtained from "Medicare and You 2002". Source: Medicare Supplement information obtained from "Choosing A Medigap Policy"