Medicare
Thinking about your Medicare options?
PacMed can help!
You can join Medicare in the seven-month period around your 65th birthday, during certain qualifying events or during other enrollment periods set by Medicare.
You can make changes, if you are already enrolled in Medicare or Medicare Advantage, between October 15 and December 7 each year. Those currently on a Medicare Advantage plan can also make changes between January 1 and March 31 each year.
Sign up for a free workshop
Medicare 101 workshops, hosted by American Senior Resources*—an independent, licensed health insurance agency—are an easy way to learn about your options so you can make an informed decision. Workshops are free of charge and will give the chance to ask questions based on your unique needs.
Schedule a free consultation
Schedule a complimentary, private consultation with a Medicare specialist from American Senior Resources*—an independent, licensed health insurance agency—to help you understand your options, including which plan is right for you. There’s no cost or obligation and it can be done over the phone or video.
Free hotlines
American Senior Resources Hotline: 877.315.3279
An independent, licensed health insurance agency licensed to discuss all statewide Medicare options.*
SHIBA Helpline: 800.562.6900
Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors, staffed by volunteers trained by the state.
US Family Health Plan: 800.585.5883, option 2
A TRICARE Prime® option supporting military beneficiaries and their families.†
Learn more
PacMed accepts a variety of Medicare insurance plans, including original Medicare, Medicare Supplemental and Medicare Advantage plans.
Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
PacMed accepts original Medicare. Medicare-eligible services provided in PacMed clinics will be covered by Medicare Part B (outpatient coverage). For a list of Medicare plans we are contracted with in King, Snohomish and Pierce Counties, see our Medicare Plans.
Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)
PacMed accepts many Medicare Advantage plans. For a list of Medicare Advantage plans we are contracted with in King, Snohomish and Pierce Counties, see our Medicare Plans.
Medicare Supplemental (“Medigap”) plans
PacMed accepts all Medicare Supplemental (“Medigap”) plans. These pay secondary to Medicare and are automatically accepted for beneficiaries who also carry traditional Medicare.
Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) coverage
PacMed accepts Medicare Part D through the Maxor pharmacies located in PacMed clinics.
We understand how complex and confusing Medicare can be. In addition to the free sessions and hotlines above, the basic information and FAQ below can help you start to get oriented.
Stay with Original Medicare or choose ONE option
As a Medicare beneficiary, you can stay with Original Medicare (A+B), or choose either a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medigap (Supplemental) plan.
These options are designed differently, and each has its pros and cons. You cannot have Medicare Advantage and Medigap at the same time. You can only pick one:
Even within these basic options there are choices. There are over a dozen regulated Medigap (supplemental) plan types, and many custom Medicare Advantage plans designed by different insurers. It’s good to study the details of whatever plan you are considering to know what’s covered.
To read the fine print between Medicare Advantage and Medigap options, see this chart from the insurance commissioner.
For prescription drug coverage, you may also choose to add Medicare Part D to some of these plans; others have prescription drug coverage included.
If you need help sorting through these options, you can attend an info session or call one of the free hotlines available above or read our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) below.
Medicare FAQ – Download and search for answers
Welcome New Patients!
Get to know PacMed and our larger Providence Swedish Family.
This guidebook includes everything from where to go for different care needs, our latest digital tools and offerings, tips for seeing the doctor, understanding billing and insurance, and more!
To learn more or enroll in Medicare coverage you can contact American Senior Resources* or:
- Contact Medicare Advantage or Supplemental plans directly
- Contact any licensed insurance agent of your choice
- Visit the state insurance commissioner website
- Work directly with Medicare at 1.800.MEDICARE or www.medicare.gov
*American Senior Resources is an independent, licensed health insurance agency that sells insurance supplementing Medicare and is not affiliated or connected with Providence or Medicare or any other government program or agency. American Senior Resources offers plans from several insurance companies.
†Attention USFHP Members: If you joined USFHP prior to October 1, 2012, you can stay with the plan for life. Although not required, it is highly advisable that you also take (enroll in) Medicare when you become eligible, in addition to keeping USFHP. This combination would function similar to a Medicare Advantage plan. Please call 800‑585‑5883 option 2 with any questions.