Find the Right Medicare Plan for Your Health and Your Budget
Brawner Insurance helps Missouri residents navigate Medicare options, compare plans, and enroll in coverage that fits their healthcare needs and financial situation.
Why Working with a Local Medicare Agent Makes a Difference
Medicare can be confusing. Between Original Medicare, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, Medicare Advantage plans, and Part D prescription drug coverage, there are dozens of options available to Missouri residents. Each plan has different premiums, deductibles, copays, and provider networks.
Making the wrong choice can mean paying more than you need to for coverage that does not match your healthcare needs. It can also mean unexpected out-of-pocket costs for doctor visits, hospital stays, or prescriptions. A knowledgeable local agent helps you avoid these pitfalls by comparing your options side by side.
Brawner Insurance provides free, no-obligation Medicare consultations for Missouri residents. We are an independent agency, which means we work with multiple insurance carriers and can show you plans from different companies. Our job is to help you find the best fit, not to push a single product.
Have questions about your Medicare options?
Schedule a Free ConsultationOr call us: 660-665-1687
Understanding Medicare: Parts A, B, C, and D
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, as well as some younger individuals with qualifying disabilities. The program is divided into four parts, each covering different healthcare services:
| Part | What It Covers | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Part A | Hospital Insurance | Inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice, home health. Most people pay no premium for Part A. |
| Part B | Medical Insurance | Doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, medical equipment. Standard monthly premium applies. |
| Part C | Medicare Advantage | Bundled alternative to Original Medicare. Includes Part A + B, often includes Part D and extras like dental and vision. |
| Part D | Prescription Drug Coverage | Covers prescription medications. Available as standalone plans or included in many Medicare Advantage plans. |
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers a significant portion of your healthcare costs, but it does leave gaps. You are responsible for deductibles, copays, and the 20% coinsurance on Part B services with no annual out-of-pocket maximum. This is where supplemental coverage becomes important.
Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | Medicare Supplement (Medigap) | Medicare Advantage (Part C) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | Higher (plus Part B premium) | Lower or $0 (plus Part B premium) |
| Out-of-Pocket Costs | Predictable, minimal cost-sharing | Copays and coinsurance per visit, capped annually |
| Doctor Choice | Any doctor who accepts Medicare, nationwide | Network-based (HMO/PPO), may require referrals |
| Prescription Drugs | Requires separate Part D plan | Usually included in the plan |
| Extra Benefits | No extras (medical only) | Often includes dental, vision, hearing, fitness |
| Best For | People who want predictable costs, travel, or maximum doctor choice | People who want lower premiums and extra benefits |
There is no single best Medicare plan. The right choice depends on your health, medications, doctors, and budget. Brawner Insurance walks you through both options to help you make an informed decision.
Not sure which Medicare path is right for you?
Get a Free ConsultationOr call us: 660-665-1687
Medicare Enrollment Periods You Need to Know
Medicare has specific enrollment windows. Missing a deadline can result in late enrollment penalties or gaps in coverage.
| Enrollment Period | When | What You Can Do |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) | 7 months around your 65th birthday | Sign up for Part A, Part B, Part D, Medigap, or Medicare Advantage |
| Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) | October 15 – December 7 | Switch Medicare Advantage or Part D plans, or move between Advantage and Original Medicare |
| Medigap Open Enrollment | 6 months from Part B enrollment | Buy any Medigap plan without medical underwriting (guaranteed issue) |
| Special Enrollment Period (SEP) | Varies by qualifying event | Make changes if you lose employer coverage, move, or qualify for special circumstances |
The Medigap Open Enrollment period is especially important. During this window, insurance companies cannot deny coverage or charge more due to pre-existing conditions. We strongly recommend contacting Brawner Insurance before this window expires.
How Brawner Insurance Helps You Choose the Right Medicare Plan
Review Your Needs
We discuss your health, medications, doctors, and budget to understand your priorities.
Compare Plans
We show you plans from multiple carriers with a side-by-side comparison of costs and coverage.
Enroll Together
We handle the enrollment paperwork and make sure your coverage starts without gaps.
Annual Review
Every year, we review your plan to make sure it still fits your needs and budget.
Insurance Insights & Education
Practical guidance to help you make confident insurance decisions.
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Common Questions
Medicare FAQ
When should I enroll in Medicare?
Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after. We recommend contacting us at least three months before your 65th birthday to review your options.
Does Medicare cover dental, vision, and hearing?
Original Medicare does not cover routine dental, vision, or hearing. Many Medicare Advantage plans include these benefits. With a Supplement plan, you would need separate dental and vision coverage.
How much does Medicare cost in Missouri?
Costs vary by plan type. Most people pay no premium for Part A. Medigap premiums vary by carrier and age. Medicare Advantage may have $0 premiums but include copays. Brawner Insurance provides a free personalized cost comparison.
Can I switch from Medicare Advantage to a Medigap plan?
You can switch during Annual Enrollment (October 15 – December 7) or the Advantage Open Enrollment (January 1 – March 31). After your initial Medigap open enrollment, you may be subject to medical underwriting in Missouri.
Is there a penalty for not enrolling in Medicare on time?
Yes. A 10% per year permanent penalty applies to late Part B enrollment. Similar penalties exist for Part D. These are added to your monthly premium permanently.
Do I need both Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage?
No — you choose one or the other. A Supplement works with Original Medicare plus a separate Part D. Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare and typically includes prescriptions. You cannot combine them.
Personalized Help
Let us help you find the right Medicare plan for your situation.
Get a Free ConsultationOr call us: 660-665-1687
Our Office Locations
Kirksville, MO Office
2501 N Baltimore St, Kirksville, MO 63501
Phone: 660-665-1687
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