Medicare

Why Long View?

At Long View, when it comes to Medicare, we are an independent insurance agency that helps you navigate the complex Medicare maze. We help you find the Medicare plan that is going to fit your needs. We have built up our business on trust to fit our clients with the best plan for their budget, lifestyle, and medical coverage needs. We strive to stay educated on all relevant information in the Medicare world that has an impact on your healthcare journey. Medicare is a constantly evolving program and we look forward to continuing our journey each together as we adapt to the changes presented to us.

When did Medicare Start?

Medicare’s roots started back in 1965 when Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicare and Medicaid into law. At the time, only Medicare Part A and B were offered (Original Medicare). The goal of Original Medicare was to provide insurance for those at retirement age as they lose their employer plan benefits. Most employer health care plans only covered hospital insurance at that time so most Americans choose to go with just Part A (Hospital) while Part B (Outpatient) was not seen as important.

Back when Original Medicare was first implemented, Part A had a measly $40 deductible and Part B had a $3 monthly premium. The Part A deductible is now 1,566 as of 2022. A minimum wage of $1.25 at the time could easily afford the Part B premium while the premium is now 170.10. Not surprising but very worrisome, the cost of healthcare has increased past the rate of inflation as a high rate. This fact alone along with increasing costs universally, stresses the importance of retirement planning.

Picture from Lyndon B. Johnson Library / National Archives

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Key Medicare Dates

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

The seven months when one can enroll in Original Medicare and supplemental plans. Three months before, the month of, and three months after one turns age 65.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

After losing coverage from an employer health plan, this is the period where one is allowed to sign up for Part A, Part B, and supplemental plans up to eight months after employer coverage is terminated.

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

From October 14th to December 7th, all Medicare enrollees have the ability to change plans. Example: Advantage to Advantage, Supplement to Advantage, Advantage to Supplement, or switching prescription drug plan. This plan will be effect January 1st of the following year.

Open Enrollment Period (OEP)

From January 1st to March 31st, people enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans have the ability to switch Advantage plans or switch to Original Medicare with a Supplement.

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all your options.