Medicare Fundamentals Explained – Plain and Simple
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older, younger people with certain disabilities, and those with End-Stage Renal Disease. At Tri Star IMG, we explain Medicare in plain English — no confusing insurance jargon. We work only for you, not the insurance companies.
The Four Parts of Medicare
Part A – Hospital Insurance:
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care. Most people get this part premium-free if they (or their spouse) paid Medicare taxes while working.
Part B – Medical Insurance:
Covers doctor visits, preventive care, outpatient services, lab tests, and durable medical equipment. 2026 standard monthly premium: $202.90
Part C – Medicare Advantage Plans:
Private plans that combine Part A + Part B (and usually Part D). Often includes extra benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, gym memberships, and transportation to doctor visits.
Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage:
Helps pay for outpatient prescription medications. You can add this to Original Medicare or it is usually included in Medicare Advantage plans.
Medicare Costs in 2026 - What You Need to Know
Medicare costs can be confusing, but we break it down clearly for you.
Part B Standard Monthly Premium:
The standard Medicare Part B premium in 2026 is $202.90 per month. Most people pay this amount. However, if your income is higher, you may pay more through IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount).
Part A Deductible:
$1,676 per benefit period (this is usually covered by Medigap or Medicare Advantage plans).
Part B Deductible:
$240 per year (you pay this once per year before Part B starts covering costs).
Medicare Advantage (Part C) Costs:
Many Medicare Advantage plans have $0 monthly premium beyond your Part B premium. However, they usually have copays, coinsurance, and an annual out-of-pocket maximum.
Part D Prescription Drug Plans:
Monthly premiums vary widely ($0 – $100+). The cost depends on which medications you take and which plan you choose.
Important Tip:
Choosing the wrong plan based only on premium can end up costing you thousands of dollars per year in copays and deductibles.
Medicare Enrollment Periods & Important Deadlines
Understanding when you can enroll in Medicare is critical. Missing important deadlines can cost you money for the rest of your life.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):
This is your first opportunity to enroll in Medicare. It begins 3 months before your 65th birthday and ends 3 months after your birthday month. This is the best time to enroll without penalties.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP):
Every year from October 15 – December 7 During this time you can switch Medicare Advantage plans or add/remove Part D prescription coverage.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEP):
You may qualify for a special enrollment period if you lose employer coverage, move, or have other qualifying events.
General Enrollment Period January 1 – March 31 (limited options and possible penalties)
Important Warning:
Enrolling late in Part B or Part D can result in lifelong penalties. That’s why we strongly recommend speaking with a local licensed agent before making decisions.
Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage (Part C) – Side by Side Comparison
Many people get confused between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Here’s a clear comparison:
Why Choose Tri Star IMG for Your Medicare Needs
At Tri Star, we believe Medicare should be simple, clear, and focused on what’s best for you.
Here’s why thousands of Knoxville seniors trust us:
Local Tennessee Rooted Team — We live and work right here in East Tennessee
Independent Licensed Agents — We work for you, not the insurance companies
Nearly 50 Experienced Agents — Large team with deep knowledge of Medicare
157 Five-Star Google Reviews — Real clients, real results
Lifetime Support — Free annual plan reviews for as long as you’re our client
In-Home or Phone Consultations — We come to you at no cost
Honest & Transparent Guidance — No pressure, just clear options
We don’t just sell plans — we build long-term relationships and help you make confident decisions.
Ready to Simplify Your Medicare?
You don’t have to figure Medicare out alone.
Our local Knoxville team is here to help make this process clear, simple, and stress-free.
What You Can Expect When You Reach Out:
A friendly conversation with a licensed Tennessee agent
Personalized plan recommendations based on your needs
Clear explanation of costs and benefits
No pressure — just honest guidance
Free service with lifetime support
Take the next step today.
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Tri Star
Insurance Management Group
Text: (866) 580-1776
Call: (877) 809-1755
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Medicare Supplement
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