Medicare Education Is about More than Medicare
How a Medicare educator's passion for inclusion and simplification transforms confusion into understanding.
Medicare Education Is About More Than Medicare
By Susan Lyn Sykes
Yesterday, I walked into a senior center thinking I knew exactly how the afternoon would go.
I had prepared a Medicare matching game, but my printed cards turned out to be far too small. So, I changed plans and relied on my Medicare Made Simple presentation, journals, a Medicare calendar, and, of course, snacks.
The cheddar popcorn turned out to be the biggest hit! 😂
But what happened next was much more meaningful.
The group became engaged and started asking questions—about Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Part F, medical underwriting, hospital stays, and swing beds. Some of the questions were things I had never encountered before, so I learned right along with them.
One woman initially sat apart from the group. I made sure she received the same materials and snacks as everyone else and intentionally included her throughout the presentation. Before long, she joined the group.
That moment meant a lot to me.
My background is in special education, and I’ve always believed that everyone should receive the same opportunity to participate and understand.
Medicare can be complicated. But the people trying to make decisions about their healthcare shouldn’t have to feel overwhelmed by the process.
My goal is to take the information, simplify it, listen to people’s questions, and help them understand their choices.
At the end of the afternoon, one woman wanted to learn more about her Medicare Advantage plan, and I received permission to contact her.
But honestly, the best part wasn’t gaining a potential client.
It was hearing people say, “I understand that now.”
And then being invited to come back anytime.
That’s a win.
