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Medicare Terms in Plain English
Someone threw a Medicare word at you? Look it up.
Type a word your broker, a mailer, or a webinar threw at you. You'll get it in clear language — then a calm next step for your situation.
Clear-language education only. The Clearing doesn't sell insurance, recommend plans, or earn commissions.
Common questions
What does “guaranteed issue” mean in Medicare?
It's a time or situation when an insurer must sell you a Medigap policy at the best available rate, without asking health questions or turning you down. The most common one is the six-month window when you first enroll in Part B at 65 or older.
What is prior authorization?
It's a requirement, common in Medicare Advantage plans, to get the plan's approval before it will cover certain services or medications. Original Medicare uses it far less often.