Medically reviewed by Dr. Rajan Kohli, MD, board-certified Family Medicine physician — Lakewood Primary Care and Wellness, Dallas.
Turning 65 comes with one big to-do that catches many people off guard: enrolling in Medicare. Miss your window and you could face lifelong penalties; handle it right and you set up years of coverage and care. Here is a clear checklist for Dallas residents approaching 65.
This article is educational and not insurance advice. Confirm details at Medicare.gov or with a licensed advisor.
Know Your Enrollment Window
Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window: it begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends three months after. Signing up during this window helps you avoid late-enrollment penalties and coverage gaps. If you are still working and covered by an employer plan, different rules may apply — check before you delay.
Understand the Parts of Medicare
Medicare has a few moving pieces. Part A covers hospital care, Part B covers outpatient and physician services, Part D covers prescription drugs, and Part C (Medicare Advantage) bundles these through a private plan. Which combination is right for you depends on your health, budget, and the doctors you want to see. Take time to compare, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Choose Your Primary Care Doctor Early
One of the most important — and most overlooked — steps is choosing a primary care physician. The doctor you pick at 65 is often the one you keep for a decade or more, so it’s worth choosing well. Look for a physician who takes your coverage, is accepting new patients, has time for real conversations, and coordinates your specialists. Lakewood Primary Care and Wellness is accepting new Medicare patients in Dallas, on the Texas Health Presbyterian campus.
Mark the Annual Enrollment Period
After you’re enrolled, the Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 to December 7 each year. This is your yearly chance to review and change your Medicare Advantage or Part D coverage as your needs change. It’s a good habit to review your plan each fall even if you’re happy — plans and prescriptions change.
Your Turning-65 Checklist
- Mark your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period on the calendar.
- Decide between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.
- Enroll in a Part D drug plan if you need prescription coverage.
- Choose a primary care physician who is accepting new Medicare patients.
- Schedule your Welcome to Medicare or Annual Wellness Visit.
- Review your coverage each year during the October 15–December 7 window.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I sign up for Medicare?
During your Initial Enrollment Period — the 7 months around your 65th birthday (three months before through three months after).
What happens if I miss my enrollment window?
You may face late-enrollment penalties and coverage gaps. If you’re covered by an employer plan, special rules may apply — verify before delaying.
When is the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period?
October 15 to December 7 each year, for reviewing and changing Medicare Advantage and Part D plans.
How do I choose a primary care doctor for Medicare in Dallas?
Pick a physician who takes your coverage, is accepting new patients, and has time for you. Lakewood Primary Care and Wellness welcomes new Medicare patients.
Start Your Medicare Journey in Dallas
Approaching 65? Get established with a physician who will be with you for the long run. Request an appointment or call 214-810-4331.
