New to Medicare | Working past 65 | Recently moved | Dual eligible | Staying healthy
Getting started with Medicare
We accept Original Medicare and most Medicare supplement and Medicare Advantage plans. See a list of Medicare Advantage plans accepted in 2023.
There are several Medicare-related time periods for you to know about:
- Turning age 65: This is your Medicare Initial Enrollment Period. It begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and ends three months after you turn age 65. (You may also be eligible for Medicare even if you plan to work past age 65.)
- Disability: If you have a certain ongoing disability, you may be able to enroll in Medicare before turning age 65.
- Special qualifying events: After you enroll, some life events, such as moving to a new state or losing coverage, can make you eligible for a Special Enrollment Period.
Choosing the right Medicare plan
Staying healthy is important, now more than ever. Find out how choosing the right Medicare Advantage plan gives you better health care at lower costs.
We can put you in touch with an independent licensed insurance agent who specializes in Medicare. The agent can answer your questions and help you enroll in the plan that’s best for you. Call 1-206-774-5864, TTY 711, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Video
Learn more about Medicare
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Medicare can be confusing. That's why we have several ways to help you learn more. After you know the basics, you will be ready to make the best decision for your needs.
- [Narrator] So you want a Medicare plan that works for you,that fits your health needs and your budget,but where in the world do you start? Medicare can feel like a dense jungle that's hard to navigate, so it helps to have a guide who actually knows what they're talking about. Good news. Licensed insurance agents are here for you.What is a licensed insurance agent, you ask, and how can they help you? Licensed insurance agents, or brokers,are experts on all things Medicare, especially Medicare insurance choices. They receive intensive training on all current regulations and benefits with Medicare. Every year they also train and certify with each health insurance plan they represent. Basically, they know their stuff. These agents represent a variety of insurance companies and Medicare options, so they won't try to steer you to one company or plan. They'll ask questions about your doctors, specialists, lifestyle, health needs, and goals so they can guide you to a plan that matches your needs.
Do you travel a lot? They'll help you find a plan that fits with your adventurous spirit. This all sounds great, right? But how much does it cost? Well, there's actually no cost to consult with an agent. They get paid a commission from the insurance plan you select. Commissions are regulated by the federal government to deter bias towards a single company. You're welcome to meet with an agent for some answers, even if you're not yet ready to enroll. And did we mention there's no fee? A broker can also support your Medicare insurance needs all year long. They're available to answer any questions you have about the plan. They can also connect you to help or resources if problems arise. Here at The Polyclinic, we work with trusted broker partners selected for their Medicare expertise, years of experience, and knowledge of how The Polyclinic works. They can educate you on how each plan works with our doctors, and how you can get the most out of your coverage. Get some peace of mind on your Medicare journey by finding a reliable guide. We'd be happy to help connect you with a trusted partner.
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Health and wellness
Looking for ways to feel your best? Check out our wellness library and community events.
Disclaimer: Optum Care Washington and The Polyclinic d/b/a Optum Care Washington (the “Practices”) are both physician owned and led practices having complete authority for all medical decision-making and patient care through their physicians and other licensed professionals. Optum, through its management organizations (“Optum”) provides non-clinical administrative services to support the Practices and their physicians. Neither Optum nor its management companies employs, engages, or supervises physicians or other licensed professionals, or determines or sets the methods, standards, or conduct of the practice of medicine or exercise of medical judgment or health care provided by the Practices or by any of their licensed professionals. “Part of Optum” reflects that the practices are part of Optum’s effort to support forward-thinking physician practices in helping their patients live healthier lives.