Effectively Transitioning to Medicare at 65 or Retirement - Maximizing Your Medicare”

This presentation will guide attendees through the essential aspects of Medicare planning. We will begin with the importance of Medicare in both health and financial planning, focusing on key transition points such as turning 65, retiring, or relocating. From there, we will explore the current Medicare landscape, including an overview of Parts A, B, C, and D, the differences in plan availability by state and county, and today’s consumer trends. Attendees will learn the critical rules and timing of enrollment, including initial and special enrollment periods, how to avoid costly penalties or coverage gaps, and recent CMS rulings that may affect choices. The discussion will also highlight coverage beyond the basics—such as dental, vision, and hearing—while comparing Medigap and Medicare Advantage options and reviewing the extra benefits marketed by insurance companies. Special topics will include ethical Medicare practices, caregiving resources, coverage for Alzheimer’s patients, the impact of weight-loss drugs, and new legislation affecting Medicare, Medicaid, and the ACA. We will address common mistakes to avoid, such as missing enrollment deadlines or overlooking prescription coverage, and emphasize the vital role of financial advisors in guiding clients to make informed, confident decisions. Ultimately, the session reinforces that Medicare is not one-size-fits-all; careful, timely planning is essential. Participants will walk away with the knowledge to cover gaps wisely, stay ahead of changes, and begin or continue conversations with clients at 65 and again at retirement.

Competency Level: Intermediate
FPA Competency: Critical Thinking
CFP Board Topic: Risk Management and Insurance Planning
CFP Board CE Credit Hours: 

• By the end of the presentation, participants will be able to identify the key Medicare enrollment periods (Initial and Special Enrollment) and explain the consequences of missing enrollment deadlines.
• By the end of the presentation, participants will be able to compare and contrast Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap plans, including what is and is not covered (e.g., dental, vision, and hearing).
• By the end of the presentation, participants will be able to evaluate recent Medicare changes—including CMS rulings, consumer trends, and new coverage considerations—and apply this knowledge to better guide clients in their health and financial planning decisions.