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Medicare Providers in Washington State

Photo of Heidi Bolton, Medicare Advisor at Spears Agency

Heidi Bolton

Medicare Advisor

Spears Agency

(360) 837-6089
Spears Agency logo

Medicare planning and coverage guidance for individuals turning 65, retiring, or reviewing existing coverage

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Photo of J. R. Gillespie, Medicare Advisor at ALLSTAR Financial Insurance

J. R. Gillespie

Medicare Advisor

ALLSTAR Financial Insurance

(425) 814-6378
ALLSTAR Financial Insurance logo

Medicare, health, life, and long-term care insurance guidance, along with retirement solutions for individuals, families, and small businesses across the Puget Sound region

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What Is Medicare?

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for Americans age 65 and older, as well as certain younger people with disabilities. It is divided into four parts, each covering different aspects of healthcare:

Part A — Hospital Insurance

Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working.

Part B — Medical Insurance

Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, medical equipment, and some home health services. Part B requires a monthly premium, which is income-based.

Part C — Medicare Advantage

An alternative to Original Medicare offered through private insurers. These plans bundle Part A, Part B, and often Part D together, frequently adding dental, vision, and hearing benefits. Plan availability and costs vary by county in Washington State.

Part D — Prescription Drug Coverage

Covers prescription medications through private insurance plans approved by Medicare. Each plan has its own list of covered drugs (formulary) and cost structure. Enrolling on time is important — late enrollment can result in permanent premium penalties.

Medicare and Life Transitions

Major life changes often bring Medicare decisions to the forefront. Whether a loved one is moving into senior living, recovering from surgery, managing an estate after a loss, or transitioning from employer coverage to retirement, the right Medicare plan can make a meaningful difference in both care quality and cost.

During these transitions, families are often juggling multiple responsibilities at once — coordinating with attorneys, managing property, supporting aging parents, and navigating unfamiliar systems. Having a Medicare specialist on your team means one less thing to worry about, and one more area where you can feel confident the right decisions are being made.

Medicare planning belongs alongside the other essential services families need during times of change — legal guidance, financial planning, real estate support, and senior care coordination. That is why this site is building a directory of independent Medicare providers who understand the unique needs of seniors and families in Washington State.

Frequently Asked Questions

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people age 65 and older, regardless of income. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps cover healthcare costs for people with limited income and resources. Some people qualify for both programs simultaneously — known as 'dual eligibility' — which can provide more comprehensive coverage.

Most people become eligible for Medicare at age 65. Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before the month you turn 65 and extends three months after. Missing this window can result in late enrollment penalties that increase your premiums permanently. If you are still working and have employer coverage, special rules may apply — a Medicare specialist can help you navigate the timing.

Medicare Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health services. Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment. Washington State residents may also access additional benefits through Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offered by private insurers, which often include vision, dental, and hearing coverage.

Yes. During the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7 each year), you can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, change your Part D prescription drug plan, or enroll in a new Medicare Advantage plan. There is also a Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 – March 31 where you can switch Advantage plans or return to Original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans include all Part A and Part B benefits and often add extras like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs. Many also include prescription drug coverage. Plans vary by region, so the options available in Washington State may differ from other states.

A licensed Medicare specialist or insurance broker can help you compare plans, understand costs, and enroll in the right coverage for your situation. Look for someone who is licensed in Washington State, represents multiple carriers, and has experience working with seniors in transition. A directory of independent Medicare providers across Washington is being built — check back soon.

Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care in assisted living or memory care facilities. However, it may cover short-term skilled nursing care (up to 100 days) following a qualifying hospital stay. For long-term care, families often explore Medicaid, long-term care insurance, or private pay options. A Medicare specialist can help clarify what is and is not covered in your specific situation.

Professional Disclosure

Real Property Planning is an educational and connection hub. It does not provide legal, tax, accounting, financial, brokerage, or appraisal services. Professionals referenced on this site are independently licensed and operate through their own separate businesses. Real estate brokerage services are provided by David Stein, a licensed Washington broker, through eXp Realty. Appraisal services are provided by David Stein through Stein Appraisal. Read the full disclaimer.