PATHWAY 04 · NAVIGATE · MEDICARE
The coverage side — and who gives you unbiased answers for free.
Medicare has four parts, several enrollment windows, and a lot of mail. This track gets you oriented, tells you exactly what to gather, and then hands you to a SHIP counselor in your own state — trained, free, and with nothing to sell you.
Who to call
Your state's SHIP counselor (the State Health Insurance Assistance Program). They are free, trained, and do not sell anything. 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for account, card, and claim questions.
What information you need
The Medicare card and number, a list of current doctors and medications with doses, and any recent statement or denial letter with the envelope it came in.
When to reach out
Three months before turning 65, immediately when coverage changes or ends, and the day a denial letter arrives — deadlines are short.
How this helps you
Fewer surprise bills, coverage that matches the doctors you already see, and a real person to call when something is denied.
We never recommend, compare, or rank specific Medicare Advantage or Part D plans. That comparison has to be unbiased and based on your own doctors and prescriptions — SHIP does it for free.
Before you read on
This pathway is informational and navigational only. It is not legal, medical, or financial advice, and we are not a government agency. We help you understand your paperwork and get you to the right free, qualified person.
Where are you in this right now?
Pick the one that sounds most like your week. You can change it at any time.