The Best Medicare Plans in Georgetown County, SC: A Guide for Seniors

In Georgetown County, SC, the best Medicare plan is the one that fits your needs. Many local seniors choose Medicare Advantage plans for low or $0 monthly costs, while others prefer Medigap supplements for more coverage. Top providers include Aetna, Humana, and United Healthcare.

Many seniors initially find Medicare confusing, but don’t worry – you’re not alone. About 1 in 5 people in Georgetown County are on Medicare. This friendly guide will walk you through Medicare basics, local plan options, costs, and tips. We’ll keep it simple (around a 5th-grade level) and reassuring.

Let’s explore your Medicare choices so you can feel confident about your health coverage in Georgetown County and its communities, such as Georgetown, Pawleys Island, Murrells Inlet, and Andrews.

Medicare Basics: Parts A, B, C, D, and Medigap

Medicare is like a puzzle with several pieces. Each part covers something different. Here’s an overview of Medicare Parts A, B, C, D, and Medigap in plain English:

Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)

What it covers: Part A helps pay for hospital care. If you have to stay overnight in a hospital in Georgetown County (for example, after surgery), Part A covers much of those costs. It also helps with skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and home health visits.

Costs: Most people get Part A premium-free (no monthly fee) because they or a spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes. However, if you didn’t, Part A can be expensive (over $500 per month), but this is rare.

Local example: Most Georgetown County seniors pay $0 for Part A. If admitted to our local hospital, Part A covers your stay after a deductible (a set amount you pay first). This deductible is over $1,600 per benefit period. After that, Part A covers the rest of your hospital bill for that period.

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)

What it covers: Part B helps pay for doctor visits, outpatient care, and other medical services. This includes visiting your family doctor in Georgetown, seeing specialists, getting X-rays or lab tests, and outpatient therapy. It also covers preventive services (like flu shots or screenings) to keep you healthy.

Costs: Part B includes a monthly premium and an annual deductible, which can vary based on income and change over time. After meeting the deductible, Medicare typically covers 80% of approved services, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20% unless you have additional coverage.

Local tip: If you visit a doctor in Murrells Inlet or Pawleys Island and they “accept Medicare assignment” (most do), they charge only the amount Medicare approves. Part B will pay 80% of that, and you’re responsible for the rest – but a Medigap plan can help cover that gap (more on Medigap soon).

Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)

What it is: Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare. Private insurance companies like Aetna, Humana, or UnitedHealthcare offer these plans. If you join a Part C plan, it replaces Parts A and B with a private plan that must cover at least what A and B do (and often more).

Extra benefits: Many Medicare Advantage plans include extras like prescription drug coverage (Part D), dental, vision, hearing, or fitness programs at no additional cost. For example, a Humana plan in Georgetown County might include dental checkups or a free gym membership.

Aetna or UnitedHealthcare plans could offer vision exams or hearing aid discounts. These perks are built in to attract seniors who want more than Original Medicare offers.

Costs: Medicare Advantage plans in Georgetown County often have low or even $0 monthly premiums. That sounds great, but remember, you must still pay your Part B premium to Medicare, even in an Advantage plan. Advantage plans usually have co-pays (for example, you might pay $10 to see a primary doctor or $40 for a specialist) and have a maximum out-of-pocket limit each year.

In our area, the out-of-pocket maximum for many plans can be around $5,000 to $8,000 annually (the most you’d pay for covered services in a year).

Networks: Most Advantage plans use networks of doctors and hospitals. You might need to visit Georgetown County or Horry County doctors in the plan’s network. Some plans are HMO (you choose a primary doctor and need referrals; you must use network providers except for emergencies), and some are PPO (more flexibility to see out-of-network for a higher cost).

For instance, a local Aetna HMO plan might require you to use Tidelands Health network doctors, while a PPO from Humana might let you see providers in Charleston at a higher copay. Always check if your preferred doctors and the local hospital are in the plan’s network.

Summary: Medicare Advantage is popular because of its low upfront costs and convenience (one card for all services). Nearly half of South Carolina Medicare beneficiaries choose an Advantage plan now. It can be a great option if you agree with the plan’s network and cost structure. We’ll compare it to Medigap in a bit.

Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)

What it is: Part D covers your prescription medications (the medicines you pick up at the pharmacy). Original Medicare (Parts A & B) doesn’t cover most regular prescription drugs, so you need Part D or other drug coverage to avoid paying full price for medications.

How to get Part D: You can get Part D in two ways:

• As a stand-alone Part D plan: If you have Original Medicare (A and B) or a Medigap supplement, you can enroll in a separate Part D drug plan from an insurer (like a Humana Walmart Rx plan or Aetna SilverScript plan, etc.). You’ll then have two medical cards (Medicare/Medigap) and another for drugs.
• Built into a Medicare Advantage plan: Many Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans include Part D coverage automatically, so you don’t need a separate drug plan.
  

Costs: Every Part D plan has its monthly premium. Some basic drug plans in Georgetown County cost around $10-$20 per month, while others with more coverage or brand-name drug benefits can cost $30-$100/month. The Extra Help program (explained later) can significantly reduce your Part D premium and copays if you have limited income.

Part D plans also have an annual deductible (some plans don’t apply to generic drugs) and copays for each prescription. For example, a generic blood pressure pill might cost $1-$3 with insurance, while a brand-name drug could be over $30.

Local pharmacies: All towns in our area – whether you’re in Georgetown, Pawleys Island, Murrells Inlet, or Andrews – have pharmacies that accept Medicare Part D plans. Many plans have preferred pharmacy networks. For instance, one plan might prefer Walmart or CVS (and give you lower copays there), while another might prefer Walgreens or a local pharmacy.

It’s good to check that your favorite drugstore is in your plan’s network for the best prices.

Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance)

What it is: Medigap plans (also called Medicare Supplement plans) are extra insurance you can buy from private companies to cover the “gaps” in Original Medicare. Original Medicare (A & B) pays a lot, but you’re left with costs like the Part A hospital deductible and the Part B 20% coinsurance (which can add up if you have a big doctor or outpatient bill).

A Medigap plan can pay those costs for you, so your out-of-pocket expenses are minimal.

Standardized plans: Medigap plans are labeled by letters: Plan A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N. Each lettered plan offers a set level of coverage that is the same as any insurance company. For example, Plan G from Mutual of Omaha has core benefits identical to Plan G from Aetna or Aflac – the only difference is price or customer service.

The most popular plans for new enrollees are Plan G and Plan N. (Plans C and F are only available if you were eligible for Medicare before 2020.) Plan G is comprehensive – it pays for all the gaps except the Part B deductible. Plan N has slightly lower premiums, but you pay small copays (up to $20 for a doctor visit, $50 for ER if not admitted).

Costs: You do pay a monthly premium for Medigap. In South Carolina, a 65-year-old might pay roughly $75 to $150 monthly for a Medigap plan, depending on the plan and insurer. For instance, a Plan G for a 65-year-old in Georgetown could cost around $100-$120/month on average, whereas Plan N might be a bit cheaper.

(Premiums can be higher if you’re older or if you use tobacco, etc.) The good news is that Medigap when you go to the doctor or hospital, can pay all or most of the costs that Medicare doesn’t cover. Many people with Medigap pay little to nothing out-of-pocket beyond the premiums.

No networks: Medigap plans don’t have networks. You can go to any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare – no referrals needed. This is great if you travel a lot or if you want flexibility.

For example, suppose you live in Pawleys Island but want to see a specialist in Charleston or even Charlotte, NC. In that case, Medigap will cover it (as long as Medicare covers that service) because any provider that accepts Medicare will accept your Medigap plan.

Keep in mind: Medigap only works with Original Medicare. It does not include drug coverage, so you’d also need a Part D plan. And you generally can’t have Medigap and Medicare Advantage at the same time – you choose one path or the other.

We’ll talk next about how to choose between an Advantage plan and a Medigap plan because this is one of the most significant decisions when picking the “best” Medicare plan for you.

Top Medicare Plan Providers in Georgetown County

Several insurance companies offer Medicare plans (Advantage, Part D, and Medigap) in Georgetown County, South Carolina. Each company has different plans and perks. Here’s a look at some of the well-known providers and what they offer to local seniors:

AETNA

Aetna is a large national insurer offering Medicare Advantage (Part C), Part D drug plans, and Medigap in South Carolina. Aetna’s Medicare Advantage plans in our area often come with $0 premiums and benefits like dental, vision, or even gym memberships. Many local doctors accept Aetna plans, and they usually have HMO and PPO options.

For example, some Georgetown seniors have Aetna Medicare Advantage and pay $0 to see their primary doctor with a small copay for specialists. Aetna also offers Medigap plans (through affiliates like Accendo), which can be competitively priced for supplements like Plan G.

HUMANA

Humana is another popular choice for Medicare Advantage in Georgetown County. Humana’s plans are known for including extras such as SilverSneakers gym membership (so you can stay active at local gyms) and often comprehensive dental/vision coverage. Many Humana plans have $0 monthly premiums as well.

Humana has a sizable network in South Carolina, including doctors and pharmacies in Georgetown and nearby areas. They also offer stand-alone Part D prescription plans that some seniors use alongside Original Medicare. Humana is often a top pick if you prefer a big company with many extra benefits.

MUTUAL OF OMAHA

Mutual of Omaha is best known for its Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans. They have been providing Medigap insurance for decades and are a trusted name. In South Carolina, Mutual of Omaha offers popular Medigap plans like Plan G and Plan N.

Mutual of Omaha does not typically offer Medicare Advantage plans in our area – they focus on supplements and other insurance like life insurance. So, if you see their name, think Medigap.

AFLAC

Aflac (yes, the company with the duck 🦆 commercials!) also offers Medicare supplements in many states, including South Carolina. Aflac’s Medigap plans can help pay for deductibles and coinsurance. They entered the Medicare Supplement market recently, so some local seniors might not be as familiar with them for Medigap.

However, Aflac is known for customer service and supplemental coverage. If you want a Medigap plan from a company you recognize from TV, Aflac is an option. (Remember, with any Medigap, the benefits are standard by plan letter – Aflac’s Plan G will be the same core coverage as Plan G from any other company.)

UNITED HEALTHCARE

UnitedHealthcare is a major insurance provider, and they partner with AARP to offer Medicare plans. UHC offers AARP-branded Medicare Advantage and AARP Medicare Supplement plans in Georgetown County. UHC’s Medicare Advantage plans often have strong networks and $0 premium options. For instance, UHC might have an HMO plan with no premium that many local doctors accept, and it could include prescription coverage and dental.

Their plans usually carry the trusted AARP name, which many seniors find reassuring. UnitedHealthcare’s Medigap plans (through AARP) are popular too – they might not always be the cheapest, but they have a reputation for stable rates and good service. If you get a lot of mail from AARP about Medicare, UHC is behind it.

ACCENDO

Accendo is a newer name you might see. It’s actually part of the CVS/Aetna family of companies. Accendo offers Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans in South Carolina. They often have a household discount (for example, if you and your spouse both get an Accendo Medigap plan, you save a percentage off the premium). Accendo’s rates for plans like G and N can be quite competitive for 65-year-olds.

Even though the name is not as famous, it’s backed by Aetna/CVS, so it’s a reputable choice. If an agent mentions Accendo Medigap, know that it’s simply another option for your Medicare supplement insurance with identical benefits to other Plan G’s or Plan N’s, potentially at a lower cost if the pricing is reasonable in our area.

Tip: All these companies are regulated and approved to offer Medicare plans. The “best” one depends on which plan fits your needs. It’s wise to compare costs and benefits. For instance, Aetna vs. Humana for an Advantage plan – which has your doctors, your prescriptions, and desired extras? Or Mutual of Omaha vs. Aflac for a Medigap – which offers the lowest premium for the plan you want?

Don’t worry. You can get help with comparisons (for example, Palmetto Mutual can compare plans from multiple companies for you) to find the best match.

Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap: Which Should You Choose?

One of the most significant decisions is whether to get a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan or to go with Original Medicare + a Medigap supplement. Both paths have pros and cons. Let’s compare them in clear terms so you can decide what’s better for you:

💡 Key Differences Between Medicare Advantage and Medigap:

Costs: Medicare Advantage plans usually have low or $0 monthly premiums, but you will pay copays as you use services (for example, $10-$50 for doctor visits and possibly hundreds for hospital stays up to an annual limit). Medigap plans have a higher monthly premium (you pay this whether you use services or not) but then little to no cost when you go to the doctor or hospital. It’s like pay-as-you-go (Advantage) versus paying upfront for peace of mind (Medigap).

Example: Joe in Georgetown wanted to keep his monthly costs very low, so he chose a $0 premium Medicare Advantage plan and pays copays when he visits the doctor. Mary in Pawleys Island preferred to pay more monthly for a Medigap Plan G, so she has virtually no bills or copays when using healthcare. Both approaches can work depending on your budget and comfort with out-of-pocket expenses.

Doctors & Hospitals (Networks): Medicare Advantage plans typically have network restrictions. If it’s an HMO, you must use the plan’s network doctors in places like Georgetown or Horry County (except for emergencies); if it’s a PPO, you can go out-of-network, but it’ll cost more. With Medigap, there are no networks – you can see any doctor or go to any hospital nationwide that accepts Medicare. This is great if you have doctors you love or if you split time in different states.

Consider: If you have a specific specialist in Charleston you want to keep seeing, a Medigap will let you do that easily. If you mostly stick close to home and all your doctors are already in the network of an Advantage plan, then the network limitation might not be a big deal for you.

Prescription Coverage: Most Advantage plans include built-in Part D drug coverage. Medigap plans do not, so you must buy a separate Part D plan if you go the Medigap route. This means an extra card and possibly another premium (though many Part D plans are low-cost).

Some seniors prefer the simplicity of one Medicare Advantage plan that handles everything (hospital, medical, drugs). In contrast, others don’t mind having a separate drug plan alongside Medigap if it means better health coverage.

Extra Benefits: Medicare Advantage often wins here. Advantage plans can include additional benefits like routine dental cleanings, eyeglasses, hearing aids, rides to medical appointments, over-the-counter item allowances, and fitness programs. Original Medicare + Medigap generally does not cover these extras (you’d need separate dental or vision insurance if you want it or pay out-of-pocket for those services).

If benefits like getting help with dental costs or a free pair of glasses each year are significant to you, an Advantage plan might be appealing. Medigap is focused only on filling Medicare’s cost gaps and doesn’t include these perks.

Enrollment and Switching: When you first become eligible for Medicare (at 65), you are usually free to choose either path without issues. However, later on, switching may have restrictions. If you want to leave an Advantage plan and get a Medigap after your initial enrollment, you might have to answer health questions in most cases (this is called “medical underwriting”).

If you have severe health conditions, the Medigap company could charge you more or even deny coverage (with some exceptions). In contrast, you can switch from Medigap to an Advantage plan during specific enrollment periods without health questions. Also, each year from Oct 15 – Dec 7 (Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period), you can switch to Advantage plans or Part D plans.

If you want to change or drop an Advantage plan, there’s an Advantage Open Enrollment (Jan 1 – Mar 31). Remember that getting into Medigap later isn’t guaranteed unless you have a special situation. So try to pick the path you feel you’ll stick with in the long term.

So, which is better? It truly depends on your personal needs and preferences:

• If you value lower monthly costs and like the idea of extra benefits (and your doctors are in the network), a Medicare Advantage plan could be the best Medicare plan for you. Many healthy seniors go this route to save money and are comfortable with the copays when they need care.
• If you value maximum coverage and flexibility to see any doctor without worry, and don’t mind a higher monthly premium, a Medigap plan with Original Medicare and a Part D drug plan might be your best choice. This can be reassuring if you have health issues or just want predictable costs.
• Some people also consider their travel or split residence plans. For example, if you live part-time in Georgetown County and part-time in another state, Medigap might be easier for multi-state coverage. Advantage is convenient if you’re firmly local year-round and all healthcare you need is nearby.

Example story: “I travel from Murrells Inlet to Florida often to visit my grandkids. I chose Medigap to see doctors anywhere,” says Susan, age 68. Her neighbor Bob, however, rarely leaves South Carolina and is happy with his local Medicare Advantage HMO plan that saved him money. Susan and Bob have good coverage – they choose the plans that fit their lives. 🙂

If you’re unsure, don’t be afraid to ask questions. This is where a local expert (like Palmetto Mutual) can help you compare side by side. The goal is to ensure you feel comfortable with whichever plan you pick.

📅 Medicare Enrollment Timelines and Deadlines (Don’t Miss Out!)

Enrolling in Medicare on time is essential to avoid gaps in coverage or penalty fees. Here are the key Medicare enrollment periods for seniors in Georgetown County (and everywhere in the U.S.), plus tips to avoid late penalties:

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):

This is when you first become eligible for Medicare, typically around your 65th birthday. It’s a 7-month window that starts 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after.

For example, if your 65th birthday is in June, your IEP runs from March 1 through September 30. During this time, you should sign up for Part A and B (unless you’re still working with employer insurance – see Special Enrollment below). Enrolling in this window ensures your coverage starts ASAP (if you enroll before your birthday month, Part A and B usually begin the first of your birth month; if you enroll in your birth month or later, your start date could be delayed a bit).

Don’t miss your IEP if you’re not covered elsewhere – otherwise, you might have to wait and potentially pay a penalty for late enrollment in Part B.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for Working Seniors:

If you or your spouse are still working at 65 and you have health insurance through that employer, you can delay enrolling in Part B (and Part A if you want) without penalty. You get a Special Enrollment Period when that employment or coverage ends. The SEP lasts 8 months, from losing employer coverage to signing up for Part B without penalty. (The window for Part D drug plans is shorter – usually just 2 months after losing other creditable coverage.)

Example: John in Georgetown worked until he was 67 and stayed on his employer’s insurance. When he retired, he had an 8-month SEP to enroll in Part B and avoid the penalty.

Important: If you continue working past 65, ensure your employer plan is creditable (as good as Medicare). Most large employer plans are. If it’s a small employer or a marketplace plan, check with a Medicare advisor to see if you should enroll in Part B.

Annual Election Period (AEP) – Oct. 15 to Dec. 7

Every year in the fall, all people with Medicare can review their plan choices for the following year. From October 15th through December 7th, you can change your Medicare Advantage plan or Part D drug plan for any reason. The new plan will start January 1. If you’re happy with your current plan, you don’t have to do anything, and it will likely be renewed.

But it’s smart to review because plan premiums, benefits, and drug formularies can change yearly. Many seniors in Georgetown County take advantage of AEP to ensure they still have the best plan for their needs.

Example: Maria from Andrews found out her Part D drug plan premium was going up by $10 next year, so during AEP, she switched to a cheaper plan that still covered all her medications.

If you have a Medigap plan, note that AEP doesn’t apply to Medigap—it’s mainly for Advantage and Part D changes (you can generally change Medigap at any time if you can pass health questions or during limited guaranteed issue situations).

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment – Jan. 1 to Mar. 31

Suppose you are in a Medicare Advantage plan and realize early in the year that you’re unhappy with it. In that case, you have a one-time chance in the first quarter (Jan 1 – Mar 31) to either switch to a different Advantage plan or drop Advantage and go back to Original Medicare (and pick up a Part D plan).

This period is only for people already in an Advantage plan as of Jan 1. You can’t switch from one Part D plan to another during this time; only change your Advantage coverage. For example, in February, Tom in Murrells Inlet decided his new Advantage PPO plan’s doctor network wasn’t convenient.

During the open enrollment window, he switched to a different plan that his primary care doctor recommended. Or, if he wanted, he could have returned to his Original Medicare and gotten a Medigap (though getting Medigap might require health underwriting). This is a nice safety net if you have buyer’s remorse about your plan choice.

General Enrollment Period – Jan. 1 to Mar. 31

This is a catch-all enrollment time for folks who missed signing up for Part B (and Part A if you have to pay for it) when first eligible and don’t have a Special Enrollment Period. If you didn’t enroll in Medicare during your IEP and weren’t covered by an employer plan, you may enroll during the General Enrollment Period at the start of the year.

But beware: a late enrollment penalty may apply for Part B and Part D if you went without coverage. The Part B penalty is 10% more on your premium for each whole 12-month period you were late, and it lasts as long as you have Part B. Part D’s penalty is a smaller amount (1% of the national base premium per month delayed) but also can add up over time.

And if you sign up in Jan-Mar under this General period, your coverage will only start July 1 of that year, meaning you might be without Medicare for a few more months. We want to avoid you ever needing this period by enrolling during IEP or SEP if at all possible 😊.

Avoiding Penalties:

• Enroll in Part B and Part D on time (either during IEP at 65 or when you retire if you have other coverage).
• Always have some form of creditable drug coverage (Part D or equivalent) if on Medicare.
• If unsure, ask for guidance before your 65th birthday or retirement date. Mark your calendar 📅 for those key dates (e.g., 3 months before 65 to start the process, Oct 15 yearly to review plans).

Keeping track of these enrollment windows will ensure continuous coverage and avoid unwanted extra costs. And remember, you can reach out to resources like SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) or Palmetto Mutual for free help understanding the timelines.

How Much Do Medicare Plans Cost in Georgetown County?

Let’s talk about costs – something on everyone’s mind. Medicare costs can include premiums (the monthly payment for coverage), deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. We’ll break down typical costs for Medicare in Georgetown County, including specific examples for our local area (Georgetown, Pawleys Island, Murrells Inlet, and Andrews). Keep in mind costs can vary by person and plan, but we’ll give general ranges:

Medicare Part A

For most seniors, Part A has no monthly premium (because you paid into Medicare during your working years). So, $0 per month is the norm. If you have to pay (not enough work credits), it could be higher than ~$500/month, but that’s uncommon.

The deductible for Part A (hospital inpatient) is over $1,600 for the benefit period. A benefit period starts when you’re admitted and ends after 60 days of no inpatient care. If you unfortunately have multiple hospital stays separated by more than 60 days, you might pay that deductible more than once.

However, many seniors never have to pay it in a year if they don’t go inpatient. In Georgetown County’s main hospital (Tidelands Georgetown Memorial), most Medicare admissions would hit that deductible; Medicare covers the rest of the approved stay.

Medicare Part B

The standard Part B premium is $185 per month in 2025. Almost everyone on Medicare pays this monthly (usually, it’s deducted from your Social Security check if you receive Social Security). If your income is above certain thresholds, you might pay an extra amount (an IRMAA surcharge), but most folks in places like Georgetown or Andrews are under those high-income levels in retirement.

Besides the premium, Part B has an annual deductible. After you meet the deductible, Part B generally covers 80% of your doctor/outpatient bills, and you pay 20%. There’s no out-of-pocket cap on that 20% with Original Medicare alone, which is why many get Medigap or Advantage to limit exposure.

If you only have Original Medicare (no Medigap) and a big outpatient surgery costs $10,000, you’d pay roughly $2,000 (20%). Medigap could cover that for you; an Advantage plan would have a copay or coinsurance and a maximum limit to protect you.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) Costs

Many Medicare Advantage plans in Georgetown County have a $0 monthly premium. You pay $0 for the plan and keep paying your Part B premium. Some plans might have a small premium (for example, $20 or $50 a month) if they offer more benefits or a wider network.

Copays and out-of-pocket: When you use healthcare under an Advantage plan, you pay as you go. Typical copays in our area might be $0-$20 for a primary care visit, $30-$50 for a specialist, and maybe $300-$400 per day for the first few days of a hospital stay (often capped at say $1,500 per stay), and perhaps $100 for an ER visit (waived if admitted).

Every Advantage plan has a maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) for the year – this is the most you would pay in copays/coinsurance for Part A and B services in a year (doesn’t count drug costs). In Georgetown County, MOOPs on Advantage plans often exceed $4,000. Some PPOs might go up to around $8,000-$9,000 max. But remember, that’s the worst-case scenario if you need a lot of care; many people never reach the MOOP.

Example: An Advantage plan in Murrells Inlet might have an MOOP of $5,500. If you had a rough year health-wise with multiple hospitalizations and many treatments, once your out-of-pocket costs hit $5,500, the plan would pay 100% of covered services for the rest of the year.

Part D (Drug Plan) Costs

If you get a stand-alone Part D plan, you’ll pay a monthly premium of as low as ~$0. In our region of South Carolina, there are usually around 15-20 drug plans each year, and the premiums often cluster around $40 for many popular ones. You also pay part of your prescription costs: typically, a deductible (up to $545, but some plans waive the deductible for Tier 1 and 2 drugs) and copays or coinsurance for each medication.

Thanks to recent changes, the cost of insulin is capped at $35 a month on Part D plans, and adult vaccines recommended by the CDC (like shingles shots) are $0. If you take only generics, your costs are very low. If you take expensive brand-name drugs, you could enter the “coverage gap” (donut hole) and pay a percentage of drug costs up to a specific limit until catastrophic coverage kicks in. For budgeting, check each plan’s formulary for your meds.

Local note: Pharmacies in Georgetown County (like Walgreens in Georgetown City, CVS in Pawleys Island, or the small community pharmacy in Andrews) may have different arrangements with each plan. For example, a plan might charge you $0 for a generic at CVS but $5 at another pharmacy, or vice versa. So, it is worth comparing plans based on where you prefer to pick up your meds.

Medigap (Supplement) Costs

As discussed, if you opt for a Medigap plan, you’ll pay a monthly premium. In South Carolina, for a 65-year-old new enrollee, Medigap Plan G might cost roughly $100-$130 per month on average (female rates are often a bit lower than male; tobacco users are higher). Plan N could be a little less, maybe $80-$110 monthly.

These are ballpark figures – actual quotes in Georgetown County could be on either end of the range. Over time, these premiums can rise due to age or inflation. If you’re older (say 75), a Plan G might cost more like $150-$200/month, depending on when you bought it. The key trade-off is that your medical bills are mostly covered with Medigap. You won’t pay copays for doctor/hospital (except Plan N’s small copays or if you didn’t choose a plan that covers Part B excess). Some plans like high-deductible Plan G exist with very low premiums (maybe $40/month), but you pay the first ~$2,700 of costs each year before it pays – those are less common but an option if you want low premiums and are okay with a high deductible.
By city: The costs mentioned are generally the same whether you live in Georgetown, Pawleys Island, Murrells Inlet, or Andrews – these towns are all in Georgetown County and insurers set rates by wider area or ZIP regions. For example, a Mutual of Omaha Plan G for a 65-year-old female might be $110/month whether she lives in Georgetown or Murrells Inlet. An Aetna Medicare Advantage plan with $0 premium and $5,900 MOOP is available to all county residents, whether in Pawleys Island or Andrews, since the plan coverage area is county-wide. So you don’t have to worry about one town having pricier options than another – you have access to the same plans and rates across the county. That said, availability of doctors might differ (Murrells Inlet has more providers since it’s larger, for instance), but the insurance plan’s cost is the same.

Programs to Reduce Costs: Don’t forget that there are programs to help if these costs are too high (next section). For example, Extra Help can significantly reduce your Part D drug costs(even make your premium $0 for specific plans). If you qualify, Medicare Savings Programs like QMB can pay your Part B premium. Also, some Advantage plans are designed for low-income or chronic conditions (like Special Needs Plans) which might offer even more benefits at low cost – for example, a Chronic Condition SNP for diabetes that has $0 copays for endocrinologist visits. Palmetto Mutual or a Medicare counselor could tell you if you qualify for these special plans or assistance programs.

By understanding these cost components, you can estimate what your Medicare coverage might cost per month and per year. Always consider both premium and out-of-pocket potential. The best plan is usually one that balances an affordable premium with manageable costs when you need care. And remember – cheapest isn’t always best if it doesn’t cover your needs, but the most expensive plan isn’t necessary if a cheaper one covers you well. It’s about finding value for your situation.

Georgetown County is highlighted in red on the South Carolina map. Whether you live in Georgetown (the county seat), the beachside Pawleys Island, the Murrells Inlet community, or small towns like Andrews, you have access to a variety of Medicare plans.

Programs for Low-Income Seniors (Extra Help & QMB)

Healthcare costs can be especially hard if you’re on a tight budget. Fortunately, there are programs that help low-income seniors in Georgetown County lower their Medicare expenses. Two key programs to know are Extra Help and QMB, and there are also other Medicare Savings Programs. Let’s break them down:

“Extra Help” with Prescription Drug Costs

What is Extra Help?
Extra Help is also called the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS). It’s a federal program (through Social Security) that helps pay for Part D prescription drug costs. If you qualify for Extra Help, you could have:

• Lower (or $0) Part D premium: Extra Help will cover some or all of your drug plan’s monthly premium, as long as you pick a plan that qualifies (many basic plans are fully covered).
• Lower drug co-pays: Your medications will cost much less at the pharmacy. For example, with full Extra Help in 2025, you might pay no more than $4 for a generic drug and $10 for a brand-name drug (just approximate figures; exact amounts are set each year). Some people pay $0 for generics with Extra Help.
• No deductible or donut hole worries: Extra Help eliminates the Part D deductible and coverage gap for those who qualify. You also won’t pay the late enrollment penalty if you delayed Part D while eligible for Extra Help.

Who qualifies?
Extra Help is based on your income and assets. In general, if your annual income is below a certain level (around $20,000 for a single person or $27,000 for a married couple in 2025, though the limits can change) and your savings/investments are below around $16,000 (single) or $30,000 (couple) – not counting your home, car, or personal belongings – you might qualify. There are different levels of Extra Help (full or partial) depending on how low your income is. Even if you think you might be a bit over the limit, it’s worth checking because some things don’t count or the limits can be higher if you have certain circumstances.

How to apply:
You can apply for Extra Help through the Social Security Administration – there’s a form you can fill out online or on paper. You can also get assistance applying from your local Georgetown County Council on Aging or SHIIP counselor, or ask Palmetto Mutual to guide you. The application will ask about your finances to determine eligibility.

Local impact:
Many seniors in South Carolina benefit from Extra Help. For example, imagine a senior in Andrews who has a modest Social Security check and little savings. She was paying $50 per month for her Part D plan and about $100 per month on medications. After qualifying for Extra Help, she now pays $0 premium for a basic drug plan and only a few dollars for each generic medicine. This saved her hundreds of dollars a year, making it easier to afford other necessities. If you think you might qualify, it’s definitely worth applying – the extra money in your pocket can be significant, and it means you won’t have to worry about high prescription costs.

QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) Program

What is QMB?
QMB is one type of Medicare Savings Program run through the state Medicaid office. If you qualify as a QMB, the program will pay for some of your Medicare costs, especially your Part B premium. QMB is actually like getting a Medicaid help for Medicare folks, but you don’t necessarily get full Medicaid benefits – it’s focused on Medicare costs.

Here’s what QMB does:

• Pays your Part B premium: Instead of that $185 being taken out of your Social Security, the state will pay it for you if you have QMB. So you essentially get Part B for free.
• Pays Medicare deductibles and coinsurance: When you go to the doctor or hospital, QMB covers the Medicare cost-sharing. Doctors aren’t even allowed to bill you for deductibles, copays, or coinsurance for services covered by Medicare – QMB will handle those (or Medicaid if the state has a Medicaid program to pay the remainder). This means if you’re QMB, you should have no out-of-pocket costs for Medicare-covered services. (Important: You must use doctors who accept Medicare/Medicaid, which most do. In practice, as long as the provider accepts Medicare, they treat you and then bill Medicare and Medicaid; you don’t get a bill.)
• Pays Part A premium (if any): If for some reason you don’t get Part A free (again, rare), QMB will pay your Part A premium too.

Who qualifies?
QMB has stricter income limits than Extra Help. It’s basically for people with very low income. In 2025, roughly, if your monthly income is below about $1,235 (single) or $1,664 (married) and your assets are below about $9,090 (single) or $13,630 (married), you could qualify for QMB. (Note: These numbers are approximate; the state sets them and usually updates each year. And some things like your house or car don’t count toward the asset limit.) There are also other Medicare Savings Programs for those with slightly higher income – for instance, SLMB and QI programs – which only pay the Part B premium but not other cost-sharing. But QMB is the most comprehensive one.

How to apply:
In South Carolina, you’d apply through the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) or local Medicaid office for QMB/Medicare Savings Programs. It’s like a Medicaid application focusing on income/assets. You can often get help from senior services or Palmetto Mutual can point you in the right direction. If you get approved, you’ll receive a card or letter indicating you’re a QMB.

Life with QMB:
For a low-income senior, QMB can be a lifesaver. Picture a senior in Georgetown who gets by on a small Social Security check of $1,000 a month. Paying $185 for Part B would take nearly 20% of their income – very hard to manage. But with QMB, that premium is gone. When they go to the doctor or need an x-ray, they pay nothing. They might even be able to see doctors and just show both their Medicare card and QMB/Medicaid card, and not worry about bills. It makes healthcare truly affordable. One caution: If you have QMB, do not let providers charge you – remind them you’re QMB. Sometimes out-of-state providers or less familiar offices don’t realize you have that protection. But legally, you owe $0 for Medicare-covered services if you’re a QMB beneficiary.

Extra Help + QMB:
It’s worth noting that if you qualify for QMB, you automatically get Extra Help for drug costs too (even if you didn’t apply separately). So QMB tends to cover Part A/B stuff and gives you the drug help as a bonus. That means your Part D costs will also be minimal or zero.

Other assistance:
South Carolina also has other programs and charities for seniors. For example, SHIP counselors can help you find programs you qualify for. And if you ever struggle with a medical bill, the hospital in Georgetown County might have financial assistance programs. Always reach out if you’re having trouble – there are folks ready to help seniors get the benefits they deserve.

In short, don’t be shy to seek help if your income is low. Extra Help and QMB are here to make sure Medicare works for everyone, especially those who need a little more support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here we answer some common questions about Medicare in Georgetown County, South Carolina. These FAQs are tailored to concerns seniors often have when looking for the best Medicare plans and how to enroll. Hopefully, they address some of your questions too!

Q1: What is the best Medicare plan for seniors in Georgetown County, SC?

A: There isn’t a one-size-fits-all “best” plan, because the best plan for you depends on your needs. However, many seniors in Georgetown County find great value in Medicare Advantage plans with low costs, while others prefer Medigap supplements for more coverage. For example, if you take a lot of prescriptions and want extra benefits like dental, a Medicare Advantage plan from a company like Humana or Aetna might be best. If you want maximum freedom to choose doctors and have minimal bills, a Medigap Plan G from Mutual of Omaha or Aflac plus a Part D drug plan could be best. It really comes down to your budget, your health, and your preferences. We recommend comparing a few top plans side by side. You can use Medicare’s Plan Finder tool or talk to a local expert. The good news is Georgetown County has 48 Medicare Advantage plans available in 2025, and plenty of Medigap options – so you can likely find an excellent plan that fits you perfectly.

Q2: How can I compare Medicare Advantage plans in Pawleys Island, SC?

A: To compare Medicare Advantage plans in Pawleys Island, you can follow these steps:

1. Make a list of your needs. Write down your doctors, medications, and any services that are important to you (like dental, vision, hearing aids).
2. Use Medicare’s online Plan Finder (at Medicare.gov) or call 1-800-MEDICARE. Enter your ZIP code (Pawleys Island uses the Georgetown County ZIPs like 29585) and it will show all the Advantage plans in your area. You can input your drugs and preferred pharmacies to see estimated costs.
3. Compare plan details. Look at each plan’s premium, copays, drug coverage, and which doctors are in their network. For instance, check if your Pawleys Island primary care doctor is in-network. Compare the out-of-pocket maximums too.
4. Consider getting advice. Medicare Advantage plans can be confusing, so you might reach out to a local insurance agent (like Palmetto Mutual) who can compare Medicare Advantage in Pawleys Island for you. They often have tools to input your info and generate a comparison of multiple plans at once. This can save time and ensure you’re not missing anything.

In Pawleys Island, popular plans include those from Humana, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, and others, often with $0 premiums. You might find, for example, Plan A has a better dental benefit but Plan B has your doctor in-network. Comparing helps you see those differences. Finally, once you find a plan you like, you can enroll online, by mail, or through an agent. Remember, you can switch plans each year during Open Enrollment if your needs change or if you’re not happy, so you’re not locked in forever if a plan isn’t working out.

Q3: When can I enroll in Medicare if I live in Murrells Inlet, SC?

A: You can enroll in Medicare at the same times as anyone else in the country – it’s a federal program, so location doesn’t change the dates. If you’re turning 65 in Murrells Inlet, you have a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period (as described earlier: 3 months before your 65th birthday month, the month of your birthday, and 3 months after). For example, if you turn 65 in October, you can sign up between July 1 and January 31, with October 1 likely being the start of your Medicare if you signed up early. If you’re already on Medicare and want to change your plan, you’d use the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7) each year to enroll in a new Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, which would start January 1 of the next year. Murrells Inlet seniors have the same Medicare deadlines:

• Initial Enrollment around age 65.
• Special Enrollment if working past 65 and then retiring (8 months after employment/insurance ends).
• Annual Enrollment every fall for plan changes (Oct 15-Dec 7).
• Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment in early year (Jan-Mar) if you need to switch from one Advantage plan to another or go to Original Medicare.

One thing to note: If you’re disabled and under 65, you get Medicare after 24 months of disability and South Carolina does allow those under 65 to get Medigap Plan A (with possibly higher cost) or you can take Advantage as well. But for most seniors in Murrells Inlet, the big one is the 65th birthday timeline. Mark your calendar so you don’t miss signing up—if you sign up late, you might face a Part B late enrollment penaltyfcc.gov. If you’re unsure, contact the Social Security office or Palmetto Mutual a few months before you turn 65. They can guide you through enrolling in Part A and B (usually through the SSA website or office). Once you have Part A and B, you can pick additional coverage (Advantage or Medigap + Part D). And don’t worry, whether you’re in Murrells Inlet, Georgetown, or any other town, the process is the same and there are folks ready to help if you have questions.

Q4: Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap – which is better for South Carolina seniors?

A: This is a very common question! The answer: neither is universally “better”; it depends on what you need. Both Medicare Advantage and Medigap are used by South Carolina seniors with success. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:

• Medicare Advantage (Part C): Better if you want a low monthly cost and don’t mind using a network of providers. Many SC seniors like Advantage plans because of extra benefits (dental, vision, etc.) and all-in-one convenience. For example, a senior in Georgetown might pay $0 premium and get drug coverage plus dental in an Advantage plan – very budget-friendly. The trade-off is you’ll have copays for services and need to stay within the plan’s network (for HMO) or pay more out of network (for PPO). Advantage can be great if you’re relatively healthy and cost-conscious, and your doctors are in network.
• Medigap (Supplement) + Original Medicare: Better if you want predictable costs and maximum choice of doctors. You pay a higher monthly premium for the Medigap, but then most of your bills are covered. South Carolina’s popular Medigap plans (like Plan G) mean you can go to any doctor that accepts Medicare and you won’t get surprise bills – your supplement pays the 20%, etc. This can provide peace of mind, especially if you have health conditions or travel. The trade-off is paying that premium every month and needing a separate Part D plan for drugs.

Neither is specifically “better” for South Carolina in general – it’s really about the individual. About 47% of Medicare beneficiaries in SC are in Medicare Advantage plans, which means a little over half still stick with Original Medicare and possibly Medigap or other coverage. This shows it’s a pretty even split.
Ask yourself:

• Can I afford a Medigap premium every month, or would $0 premium Advantage fit my budget better?
• Do I need the extra benefits Advantage offers, or do I already have ways to get dental/vision, etc.?
• Are my doctors in the network of an Advantage plan I like? If not, am I willing to change doctors or would I rather pay more to keep them (via Medigap)?

Some seniors start with Advantage and later switch to Medigap when they want more coverage (though remember, switching to Medigap later may require health underwriting). Others start with Medigap and stick with it for life because they like that freedom. Both types of plans are regulated and must follow rules to protect you. So, think about your priorities and perhaps consult with an advisor. In short: Advantage = lower cost, less freedom; Medigap = higher cost, more freedom. The best one is the one that makes you most comfortable.

Q5: What if I can’t afford my Medicare premiums or medications?

A: If you’re worried about affording Medicare, you’re not alone – and there is help available. First, as we discussed, look into programs like Extra Help and QMB. These are specifically there to assist people with limited income:

• Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy): helps pay Part D drug costs – it can make your medications very cheap and even cover your drug plan premium in many cases.
• Medicare Savings Programs (like QMB): can pay your Part B premium and even other cost-sharing. In South Carolina, contact the local Medicaid office or Department of Health and Human Services to apply.
• Medicaid: If your income is very low, you might qualify for full Medicaid in addition to Medicare. For seniors, Medicaid can help with nursing home costs or home care, and it covers things Medicare doesn’t (like dental in some cases). You’d have to meet state requirements which are strict, but it’s worth checking if you are struggling severely.

Other tips:

• Choose a $0 premium plan: If Medigap is too pricey, look at $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans. These plans let you have coverage without an additional monthly cost (beyond Part B). Just be mindful of the copays so you’re prepared if you need care. Many folks with limited income still choose Advantage to avoid a Medigap premium, and if they also have Extra Help, their drug costs are okay too.
• Pharmaceutical assistance: Some drug manufacturers have patient assistance programs for expensive meds. If you have a high-cost medication, see if there’s a program to get it at a discount or free. Your pharmacist or doctor might know, or you can check Needymeds.org for resources.
• Community resources: In Georgetown County, check with senior centers or the Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments’ Aging services. They can sometimes connect you to resources like help with utility bills or transportation to doctors, which can ease your overall financial burden. Churches or charities occasionally have funds or volunteers to help seniors with various needs too.
• Talk to a counselor: The South Carolina State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free counseling on Medicare. They can help ensure you’re getting all the benefits you qualify for. Palmetto Mutual, as an insurance brokerage, can also review your situation and see if there’s a plan that could save you money (for instance, maybe you’re in a plan that doesn’t cover your drugs well and a different plan would reduce your out-of-pocket).

Remember, Medicare does have safety nets. No senior should have to skip care because of cost. If you ever feel like premiums or copays are too high to manage, reach out for help – there might be an option you hadn’t considered. Sometimes a simple change like switching to a new Part D plan in the next enrollment period can save a lot of money if your current plan isn’t the best for your medication list. The key is to review your coverage each year and take advantage of assistance programs. You earned these benefits through a lifetime of work, so don’t hesitate to use them!

Q6: Is it safe to give my Medicare information to callers or telemarketers?

A: Generally, no – be very careful with unsolicited calls. Unfortunately, Medicare scams are common, and seniors in South Carolina (and everywhere) are often targeted by telemarketers or even robocalls. Here are some important points:

• Medicare will NOT call out of the blue asking for your Medicare number or personal info. If someone calls claiming to be from Medicare or an “official Medicare agent” and asks for your ID number, Social Security number, or bank info, it’s a scam. Hang up. Medicare usually communicates via letters first, not surprise callsfcc.gov.
• Don’t trust caller ID. Scammers can spoof phone numbers so it might look like a local number or even say “Medicare” or a government agency on your screen. Always be cautious. If you suspect it might have been real, you can call back official numbers (like 1-800-MEDICARE) to verify, but do not give info to someone who called you unexpectedly.
• No “new Medicare card” or “upgrade” fees. A common scam is someone calling to say you need to pay for a new Medicare card or update your information to continue benefits. This is fake. Medicare cards are free and they don’t expire yearly or anything. Only time you’d get a new card is if you request a replacement or when they switched from Social Security numbers to new IDs a few years ago, and that was automatic and free.
• Beware of “Medicare Advantage” cold calls: You might get calls from call centers trying to get you to switch your plan, claiming you could get more benefits. While some are from legitimate insurance agencies, many use spammy tactics. If they are pushy or won’t clearly identify who they are, that’s a red flag. A real licensed agent will state their name and who they work with. It’s okay to say you’re not interested and hang up.
• Never give out personal info under pressure. If a caller says “act now or you’ll miss out” or tries to rush you, don’t fall for it. Scammers often prey on urgency and emotion. You have the right to take your time, ask for information by mail, or simply decline.

If you suspect a scam, you can report it. The FTC and FCC (Federal Communications Commission) have places to report scam callsfcc.gov. South Carolina’s Attorney General office also might take reports on fraud. But your best defense is to not engage with these calls in the first place.

Tip: Consider letting unknown numbers go to voicemail. Many scammers won’t leave a message. If they do and it’s about Medicare, you can listen and decide if it sounds legit. You can always call official sources directly (like Medicare or your insurance company’s number on your card) to double-check.

Finally, know that there are trustworthy resources you can share info with, like a licensed local agent you contacted or an official SHIP counselor. Just make sure you initiate the contact or it’s someone you expected (for example, if Palmetto Mutual’s agent says they will call you at a certain time, that’s different because you’re expecting that call). Protect your Medicare number like a credit card. As the saying goes, if something sounds too good to be true (“free back brace if you just give us your Medicare number!”), it likely is. Stay safe and when in doubt, don’t give it out! 🔒

🚨 Beware of Medicare Scams and Unwanted Calls

We touched on this in the FAQs, but it’s important enough to highlight on its own. Medicare scams and aggressive telemarketing are on the rise, and seniors need to be on guard. Here’s a summary of what to watch out for and how to protect yourself:

• Unsolicited calls: If someone calls saying they are from Medicare, be skeptical. Medicare does not call you uninvited to ask for personal infofcc.gov. The same goes for random calls about insurance plans you didn’t ask about. Scammers often pose as “Medicare representatives” or fake insurance agents.
• Threats or urgent requests: Some scammers might say “Your Medicare will be cancelled if you don’t give us this info!” or “You have to enroll in this plan by tomorrow!” These tactics are meant to scare or rush you. Real Medicare communications will never threaten to cancel your benefits out of nowhere or demand immediate action. You always have time to review your options during the standard enrollment periods.
• Caller ID spoofing: As mentioned, crooks can make the call display show something like “Medicare Dept” or a 843 (Georgetown local area code) number to seem local. Don’t trust the screen; trust your instincts and the content of the call.
• Medicare card scams: No one should ever charge you for a Medicare card or ask for your ID number because “we’re issuing new plastic cards” or any such story. Medicare cards are free and were already updated in 2018 (the old Social Security numbers were replaced with new IDs). If you lost yours, you contact Social Security or Medicare to get a new one – they won’t call you to send one.
• Genetic testing or medical equipment offers: Another scam trend is calls or booths (even at fairs or parking lots) offering “free genetic testing” or “free knee brace, just give us your Medicare number.” They bill Medicare for unnecessary tests or equipment. Don’t give out your number to these people. Only do such tests if your doctor ordered them. If you actually need a brace or device, go through your doctor.
• Telemarketers for legitimate companies: Not every call is a scam; some might be real insurance agencies trying (perhaps too aggressively) to get your business. Even so, you have the right to say “No thank you” and hang up. A legitimate agent will not berate you or call you relentlessly if you’re not interested. Unfortunately, some call centers will keep calling. Consider call blocking apps or letting unknown calls go to voicemail to reduce the hassle. You can also register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry, though scammers often ignore that.
• Report and share: If you do get a scam call, tell others about it. Maybe mention it at your senior center or to friends, so they know it’s going around. You can report scams to 1-800-MEDICARE or the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) at reportfraud.ftc.gov. South Carolina’s Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) is another resource; they specialize in educating and helping with Medicare fraud issues.

In short: Be very cautious with your Medicare card number. Treat it like a credit card number. Only discuss your Medicare details or give your number when you initiate the contact to a trusted entity (like calling Medicare, speaking to a known insurance agent, or signing up on Medicare’s secure website). If someone calls you offering help, it’s okay to hang up and instead reach out to a known local resource, like Palmetto Mutual or the Council on Aging, for guidance.

Staying informed is your best defense. We want you to get all the benefits you’re entitled to – but from the right sources, not scammers. Stay safe out there! 💙

✅ Palmetto Mutual: Your Local Medicare Partner (and How We Can Help)

Medicare can feel like a maze, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Palmetto Mutual is here to guide you through every step in Georgetown County, SC. We’re a local, independent insurance brokerage based in the Grand Strand area (right here in South Carolina) that specializes in Medicare plans. Our mission is to make Medicare simple, personal, and stress-free for you. Here’s how Palmetto Mutual can help (and why it’s a better choice than calling those random 1-800 numbers or responding to spammy mailers):

• Friendly, Personal Guidance: We understand the needs of seniors in Georgetown County because we’re part of this community. When you talk to Palmetto Mutual, you’re likely speaking with someone who knows our local hospitals, the difference between living in Murrells Inlet vs. Andrews, and even the insurance quirks of South Carolina. You’ll get a real person who listens to your situation. 😊 We take the time to explain your options in everyday language (no confusing jargon). Have a question about a doctor or a prescription? We’ll help find the answer. We treat you like family, not a sales quota.
• No Cost and No Pressure: Our services come at no extra cost to you. As licensed agents, we’re paid by insurance companies if you enroll through us – you pay the same premium whether you go through Palmetto Mutual or sign up on your own. That means you get our help for free. And unlike some telemarketers, we’re not pushy. Our goal isn’t to cram you into any plan for a commission – we want you truly happy with your coverage so you’ll trust us and tell your friends. If that means telling you to stick with your current plan because it’s already your best option, we’ll do that! We build our reputation on honesty and trust, not quick sales.
• We Compare Plans for You: Remember all those companies we mentioned (Aetna, Humana, Mutual of Omaha, Aflac, UHC, Accendo, etc.)? Palmetto Mutual works with many of them. We can objectively compare the different Medicare plans side by side – Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Part D – to find what fits your doctors, your medications, and your budget. Instead of you having to call each insurance company or struggle with online forms, we do the legwork. We’ll present you with a few good options, highlighting the pros and cons of each. It’s like having a Medicare shopping buddy who already knows all the best deals!
• Local Enrollment Support: If you decide on a plan, we assist with the enrollment paperwork or online forms. This can be a relief if you’re not comfortable filling out forms or worried about making a mistake. We double-check everything. You won’t get that level of service by just signing up on a generic website or calling a big call center. And after you enroll, we’re still here for you. Got an issue in February with your new card? Call us, and we’ll help resolve it. Need to change plans next year? We’ll remember your details and make the next comparison even easier.
• No Spam, No Gimmicks: We’ve heard the horror stories – seniors call one 1-800 ad and then get 50 calls from different agents. With Palmetto Mutual, your information stays with us. We’re not a lead generator; we won’t sell your info to anyone. You get the help you need without opening the floodgates to telemarketers. We pride ourselves on being the trusted, local choice. We don’t do gimmicks – no “free dinner if you sign up now” trick here – just reliable advice.
• Empowering You: Our approach is education-first. That means our priority is to empower you with knowledge. We love when our clients say, “I finally understand how Medicare works!” That’s a win. Because an informed decision is the best decision. And we’ll be here year after year as your needs change or if Medicare rules change. We keep up with the latest (so you don’t have to), whether it’s a new plan coming to Georgetown County or an update to Medicare benefits.

In contrast to confusing call centers or spammy alternatives, Palmetto Mutual offers clarity, trust, and a personal touch. We’re not some far-away telemarketer who doesn’t care about your outcome. We’re your neighbors (our office is not far – you could even visit in person if you like!), and we truly care that you get the health coverage that gives you peace of mind.

Call to Action: Ready to find the best Medicare plan for you in Georgetown County? 🤝 Reach out to Palmetto Mutual today. You can give us a call or send us a message, and we’ll schedule a convenient time to talk. Whether you’re just turning 65 and feeling overwhelmed, or you’ve been on Medicare for a while and want to make sure you still have the right plan, we’re happy to help.

Let Palmetto Mutual be your Medicare partner. We’ll cut through the clutter, protect you from scams, and make the whole process easy and reassuring. Your health and peace of mind are too important to leave to chance or high-pressure salespeople. With Palmetto Mutual by your side, you can confidently choose a Medicare plan and then get back to enjoying life in our beautiful Georgetown County, knowing you’re covered. We’ve got your back! 💙