Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as some younger individuals with disabilities or certain medical conditions.

You can enroll in Medicare during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which is a seven-month period that begins three months before your 65th birthday month and ends three months after your birthday month. You may also be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you meet certain criteria.

Medicare is divided into several parts:

• Part A: Hospital insurance
• Part B: Medical insurance
• Part C: Medicare Advantage plans
• Part D: Prescription drug coverage

While most individuals do not have to pay a premium for Medicare Part A (if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working), there are monthly premiums for Medicare Part B and Part D. Additionally, Medicare Advantage plans may have their own premiums.

Yes, you can change your Medicare plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which runs from October 15th to December 7th each year. You may also be able to make changes during a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you qualify.