Fast Friday Q&A: Swift Solutions to Your Top Medicare Concerns

Welcome to Fast Friday Q&A on Real Easy Medicare with Al Kushner! In this rapid-response episode, Al tackles 16 common Medicare questions with clear, concise guidance drawn from four decades of experience.

1. Plan Changes & Enrollment
   • Change plans only during OEP (Jan 1–Mar 31) or OEP/OE (Oct 15–Dec 7); SEPs apply for qualifying events.
2. Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage
   • Cannot combine both; MA replaces Original Medicare (with built-in gap coverage), Medigap supplements it
3. Provider Participation
   • Non-participating doctors can charge above approved rates; Original Medicare assignment ensures standard reimbursement.
4. Cost Breakdown
   • Part A is free for most; Part B $185/mo. (2025 base); Part D ...