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[Journeyman]

2. Watch it this year, then find it or a similar program next year . . .

My wife and I went to Medicare 101 three years running, at different places each time, so we really felt we understood the programs and their many options before we actually signed on. Worked very well for us.

Check with the large hospitals in your area. They probably have similar programs they run as informational sessions each year. In my area, two of the largest hospitals offered a selection of programs -- Medicare basics, Medicare supplements, Medicare drug programs -- all taught by knowledgeable people. The best classes were run by an insurance broker who presented a wide range of options and even brought in people from each plan to discuss specifics of their offerings. By law, they are not permitted to hard sell anything, information only. Well worth the couple of mornings we devoted to it over three years.