If you’re approaching 65 in Moab or anywhere in Grand County, Medicare can feel like alphabet soup. This guide pulls the essentials together in plain English, with links to dig deeper on any topic.
The four parts
Medicare is built from four parts. Part A covers hospital and inpatient care and is usually premium-free. Part B covers doctor visits and outpatient care, with a monthly premium. Part C (Medicare Advantage) is a private all-in-one alternative that bundles A, B, and usually D. Part D covers prescription drugs. Our Medicare 101 overview breaks each one down.
Your two coverage paths
Once you have Parts A and B, there are two main ways to round out your coverage:
- Original Medicare + a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) + a Part D plan — predictable costs and any-provider-nationwide freedom.
- A Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) — one bundled plan with a network, often low premium and extra benefits.
Neither is universally better. The right choice depends on your doctors, your prescriptions, how much you travel, and your budget. See Plans & Coverage for every option explained.
What it costs
Most people pay the standard Part B premium, with higher-income enrollees paying an income surcharge called IRMAA. Part D out-of-pocket for covered drugs is capped at $2,100. You can estimate your numbers with our free Medicare Cost Calculator.
When to enroll
Your first chance is a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period around your 65th birthday. Missing it without other creditable coverage can mean lifelong penalties. Learn the timing in Medicare Enrollment Periods.
Getting local help
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Brian Penner is an independent, licensed advisor right here in Moab — comparing the options in Grand County against your needs, with no fee to you. Book a free review or call (435) 260-3200.
Moab Medicare is a licensed independent insurance agency, not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. To review all of your options, contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).