Turning 65 in Idaho: Medicare Timeline & Checklist (Boise‑Friendly Guide)
Start 6 months out. Gather your doctors and medications list. Compare Medicare Advantage vs Supplement + Part D with a local fit check. Enroll on time to avoid penalties and review each year.
Medicare
Medicare has four main parts. Part A covers hospital stays and is typically premium‑free if you or a spouse paid Medicare taxes. Part B covers doctor visits and outpatient care for a monthly premium.
Part D covers prescriptions.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) bundles A and B (and often Part D) into a private plan with networks and copays. A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy pairs with Original Medicare (A/B) and a separate Part D plan to reduce out‑of‑pocket costs.
Your 6‑Month Timeline (What To Do & When)
- 6 months before 65: List your doctors, specialists, preferred hospital system (St. Luke’s or St. Alphonsus), and all current prescriptions. Decide whether you’ll keep employer coverage and how it coordinates.
- 4 months before 65: Confirm whether you’ll be auto‑enrolled in Parts A and B. Book a fit‑check with Chris Antrim Insurance to compare Advantage vs Supplement + Part D based on your providers and meds.
- 2 months before 65: Verify networks and pharmacies. Review estimated annual costs, not just premiums. Check prior authorizations and referral rules if considering Advantage.
- 1 month before 65: Enroll in your chosen path. Set up online accounts and pharmacy preferences. Add your Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) dates to your calendar.
- After 65: Schedule a new‑to‑Medicare visit. Call us with any referral or billing questions. We’ll re‑evaluate coverage during AEP or when a qualifying event occurs.
Advantage vs Supplement — Quick Snapshot
| Factor | Medicare Advantage | Supplement (Medigap) + Part D |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | Often lower | Higher |
| Network Rules | HMO/PPO; verify providers | Any Medicare provider |
| Rx Coverage | Usually included (MAPD) | eparate Part D |
| Out‑of‑Pocket | Capped annually | Predictable with right plan |
| Travel | Check network rules | Broad nationwide access |
Boise‑Specific Tips (Keep Your Care Team)
Provider fit is everything. We verify your doctors at St. Luke’s or St. Alphonsus before you choose. For snowbirds, we model travel scenarios so you aren’t surprised by out‑of‑area rules. We also check whether your pharmacies—local or mail‑order—offer the best pricing for your medications.
Mistakes To Avoid
- Waiting until your birthday month to start paperwork.
- Picking a plan without checking your doctors and meds first.
- Ignoring AEP—formularies and networks change every year.
FAQs
- Do I need Part B if I’m still on employer coverage?
- It depends on the size and rules of your employer plan. We’ll evaluate coordination and potential penalties.
- Is there a Part D penalty if I delay?
- Possibly, unless you have creditable drug coverage. We’ll confirm your situation.
- Can I switch plans later?
- Yes—during valid election periods. We’ll time changes to avoid gaps.
Next Steps
Schedule a 15‑minute call. Bring your doctors and medications list. We’ll compare Advantage vs Supplement + Part D and handle enrollment so day one on Medicare is smooth.
