Whether you are exploring Medicare for the first time or seeking to make a change to your Medicare plan you should know your options. Medicare is a federally administered health insurance system available to elders age 65 and older. Before you enroll for any plan or switch plans you should look for Medicare 2011 Information.

If you are not currently familiar with how to enroll in Medicare you will find the following Medicare
Enrollment information helpful. There is a window period for which you may enroll in Medicare. You can enroll for Medicare when you are becoming 65 years old. The three months preceding and succeeding your 65th birthday is known as your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). You enroll for Medicare through Social Security and you may enroll at the age of 65 whether or not you are already receiving Social Security benefits. If you’re receiving Social Security benefits already at the age of 65 you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. Otherwise, if you need to enroll you may contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.

Aside from Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B, you may also be interested in enrolling for Medicare Part C and Medicare Part D. Medicare Part A covers hospital and inpatient visits and Medicare Part B covers regular doctors visits as well as additional outpatient visits. Medicare Part C is also known as “Alternative Medicare Health Plans” and Part D is also known as “Medicare Drug Coverage”. Each plan varies in cost and coverage. You should make sure to thoroughly research your options before making a decision.

If you are a disabled individual and currently receiving Social Security disability insurance, you may also be eligible for medicare benefits. Chances are you will be eligible for Medicare benefits if you have a long-term disability.