Are you turning 65 soon and feeling overwhelmed by Medicare enrollment? You’re not alone. With all the different parts, plan options, and deadlines, it’s easy to feel confused — but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you live in Southern California, understanding your options and working with a local expert can make your Medicare Advantage enrollment journey much smoother.
At Infinity Health Consultancy Agency, we specialize in helping seniors navigate Medicare Advantage plans across Riverside, Los Angeles, Ventura, and Orange Counties. This guide breaks down what you need to know and how to take your next step with confidence.
1. When to Enroll: Understanding Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the first window of opportunity to enroll in Medicare. It begins three months before the month of your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and extends three months after. That gives you a 7-month window to take action.
Missing this period could lead to delays or penalties, especially if you don’t have creditable coverage from another source (like employer insurance). For most people, Medicare enrollment starts automatically with Part A, but you’ll need to actively enroll in Part B if you’re not receiving Social Security benefits.
💡 Pro Tip: Planning ahead and enrolling early can ensure your coverage starts on time.
2. The Medicare Alphabet: Parts A, B, C, and D Explained
Let’s break down the different parts of Medicare so you know what you’re enrolling in:
- Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers inpatient care in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, hospice, and some home health care. Usually premium-free if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
- Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers outpatient services like doctor visits, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and lab tests. It comes with a standard monthly premium, which may be higher based on your income.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): An alternative to Original Medicare, offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans bundle Part A + B, and often Part D, with added benefits like vision, dental, hearing, transportation, and even gym memberships.
Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. You can get this as a standalone plan with Original Medicare or bundled with a Medicare Advantage plan.
3. Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: What’s the Difference?
When it’s time for Medicare enrollment, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.
| Feature | Original Medicare | Medicare Advantage (Part C) |
| Coverage | Part A + Part B | All-in-one: A + B, often D & extras |
| Provider Choice | Any doctor/hospital accepting Medicare | Must use network (HMO/PPO plans) |
| Prescription Drugs | Requires separate Part D | Often included in plan |
| Extra Benefits | None included | May offer dental, vision, hearing, etc. |
| Costs | 20% coinsurance, no out-of-pocket cap | Fixed copays, annual max out-of-pocket |
If you prefer more coverage and a streamlined plan, Medicare Advantage could be a great fit — especially in areas like Southern California, where many competitive plans are available.
4. What Medicare Advantage Plans Are Available in Southern California?
Southern California is one of the most competitive regions for Medicare Advantage plans. Some of the top-rated providers you may come across include:
- SCAN Health Plan
- Alignment Health Plan
- Anthem Blue Cross
- UnitedHealthcare
- Humana
- Blue Shield of California
Each of these plans offers different combinations of coverage, networks, premiums, and added benefits. Your zip code can significantly impact which plans are available to you — even within the same county.
If you live in Riverside, Los Angeles, Orange, or Ventura County, it’s important to compare options carefully based on:
- Your current doctors and specialists
- Prescription drug coverage
- Local hospitals and clinics
- Preferred pharmacies
- Monthly premiums and out-of-pocket limits
5. Why Work with a Licensed Medicare Agent?
The Medicare enrollment process can feel like a maze — but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Working with a licensed, independent Medicare agent like Infinity Health Consultancy Agency gives you:
✅ Unbiased guidance across multiple plans and providers
✅ Local insights tailored to your county and healthcare needs
✅ No-cost help — agents are compensated by the insurance carriers, not you
✅ Support beyond enrollment, including plan reviews during Annual Enrollment Periods (AEP)
Unlike online quote engines or captive agents who only represent one carrier, we shop around to find what fits you best — not just what’s available.
🗨️ “We’re here to explain everything in plain English, not insurance jargon.”
6. Ready to Enroll in Medicare Advantage? Here’s Your Action Plan
If you’re approaching 65, here are your next steps:
- Mark your IEP on the calendar – 3 months before and after your 65th birthday
- Contact Social Security to enroll in Medicare Parts A and B
- Reach out to Infinity Health for a no-cost consultation
- Review your current health needs and preferred providers
- Compare Medicare Advantage plans available in your county
- Enroll confidently with our expert guidance
Conclusion: Medicare Enrollment Made Easy with Local Experts
Turning 65 is a milestone — and enrolling in Medicare should feel empowering, not stressful. Whether you’re in Riverside, LA, Orange, or Ventura County, Infinity Health Consultancy Agency is here to walk with you every step of the way.
We understand the unique needs of Southern California seniors and take pride in making Medicare Advantage enrollment simple, personal, and pressure-free.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Call or book a free consultation with us to talk to a local licensed agent. Let’s find the right Medicare Advantage plan for your health and your lifestyle — together.
