How to Compare Plans in Medicare Plan Finder (ZIP 93720): A Fresno Walkthrough

The Medicare Plan Finder is the official tool to compare Medicare Advantage and Part D plans side‑by‑side. Here’s a Fresno‑specific, 10‑minute tour to check your doctors, drugs, and total cost before you switch. Medicare

Step 1 — Gather your info

• Medicare card + current plan name

• Medication list (name, dose, quantity)

• Pharmacies you use (e.g., CVS, Walgreens, Costco)

• Doctors (The Modern Medicine Group + specialists)

  
  

Step 2 — Start your search

1. Go to Medicare.gov → Plan Compare

2. Enter ZIP 93720 (or your Fresno County ZIP)

3. Choose Medicare Advantage or Drug plan (Part D) view and continue as a guest or signed‑in user. Medicare

   
   

Step 3 — Add your medications & pharmacies

Enter each drug exactly, select dose and quantity, then pick your pharmacies. Plan Finder calculates your annual drug costs by plan and flags preferred vs standard pharmacies. Medicare

Step 4 — Compare plans the right way

• Sort by “Lowest drug + premium cost” (for Part D) or “Lowest total yearly cost” (for MA‑PD).

• Open plan details to see premiums, MOOP, copays, prior auth and formulary info.

• Check Star Ratings as a quality signal—but always confirm doctors & drugs first. Medicare

Step 5 — Confirm your doctors

For MA plans, use the plan’s provider directory link in details—then call us with your plan & member ID, and we’ll verify from the clinic side before you enroll. (Networks and referral rules vary by HMO/PPO.) Medicare+1

Step 6 — Decide how you’ll pay for prescriptions

If early‑year drug costs are heavy, consider MPPP (monthly billing through your plan). It spreads payments but doesn’t reduce total cost. Remember: the Part D OOP cap is $2,000 in 2025. Medicare+2Medicare+2

Step 7 — Enroll (or stay put) with confidence

Enroll via Medicare.gov, directly with the plan, or with HICAP/SHIP help. Coverage changes Jan 1. Medicare

Local tip: HICAP Fresno‑Madera appointments fill quickly—559‑224‑9117. Valley CRC

Want a second set of eyes?

Call 559‑369‑7787

and we’ll review your shortlist against your doctors and meds.

Resources: Plan Finder; HICAP/SHIP; “Joining/Switching” windows. Medicare+1

We don’t sell insurance. We provide medical care and education. For unbiased plan counseling, contact HICAP/SHIP Fresno‑Madera at 559‑224‑9117. Valley CRC