Medicare Coverage Options

Confused About Medicare?

You’re Not Alone.

Turning 65 should be a time to celebrate—not stress over paperwork, plan types, or fine print. But for many people in Columbia and surrounding areas, Medicare can feel like a maze of confusing choices, unfamiliar terms, and conflicting advice. That’s where we come in. At Brooks Financial, we guide you through every step of the Medicare process with clarity, patience, and a focus on what matters to you. Whether you’re exploring your options for the first time, reviewing your current plan, or helping a loved one make sense of their coverage, we offer trusted local support and real answers—without the pressure.

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Which Medicare Option Is Right for You?

Choosing the right plan depends on your health needs, prescription medications, preferred doctors, and budget. Here’s how we help you decide:

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Medicare Advantage (Part C)

A bundled plan that includes hospital, doctor, and often prescription coverage—all in one. Many Advantage plans also include dental, vision, hearing, and wellness benefits. We’ll help you compare local plan options accepted in Columbia and surrounding counties.

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Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans

These plans work alongside Original Medicare to help pay for deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. If you want flexibility and predictable out-of-pocket costs, a Medigap plan might be a better fit.

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Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)

If you choose Original Medicare with or without a Medigap plan, you’ll need a standalone Part D plan for prescription drug coverage. We help you compare options based on your current medications and preferred pharmacy.

When Should You Enroll?

Already Enrolled But Not Sure You Picked the Right Plan?

We’re happy to review your current coverage to see if a better fit is available. Many people aren’t sure what they signed up for—or didn’t realize what’s missing until they try to use their benefits. We’ll walk through it with you, no judgment and no pressure.

When Should You Enroll?

We can help during all key enrollment periods:

  • Initial Enrollment Period – When you first turn 65 or become eligible
  • Annual Enrollment (Oct 15 – Dec 7) – Time to review or change your plan each year
  • Special Enrollment – If you’ve moved, lost employer coverage, or have other qualifying events
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FAQ: Medicare Guidance

  • What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement?

    Medicare Advantage (Part C) is a bundled plan that includes hospital, medical, and often prescription coverage through a private insurer. It may also include extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing.


    Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans work with Original Medicare and help pay for out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copays. They usually come with higher premiums but offer more flexibility in choosing doctors.

  • When should I sign up for Medicare?

    Most people should enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period, which starts three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after. If you’re still working or covered by a spouse’s plan, there may be other options. We’ll help you choose the right timing based on your situation.

  • Do I need a prescription drug plan?

    If you’re not enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage, you’ll likely need a separate Part D plan. Not having drug coverage when you're eligible could result in a penalty later on. We’ll help you compare plans based on your medications.

  • Can I change my plan later?

    Yes—each year during Medicare Annual Enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7), you can switch plans. There are also Special Enrollment Periods if you move, lose other coverage, or face certain life changes.

  • Can you help me enroll, or do I have to do it myself?

    We’re happy to walk you through the entire enrollment process—from comparing plans to completing the paperwork. Some plans allow self-enrollment if you prefer to do it on your own, and we’ll let you know when that’s an option.