Russell Turner, CMIP, owner of Navigating My Medicare in Aiken, has built a trusted reputation for guiding seniors through one of life’s most important decisions—choosing the right healthcare coverage. With a personalized approach and a deep understanding of the complexities of Medicare, he helps individuals over 65 navigate their options to find the plan best suited to their health needs and budget. His mission is simple yet vital; take the confusion out of Medicare and empower people with clarity, confidence and peace of mind.
Can you explain any changes that Medicare recipients should be aware of before the year closes?
The annual Medicare enrollment period begins on October 15 and runs through December 7. If you have Medicare, this is the time to review your plan, because chances are it will change beginning January 1, 2026. These adjustments happen every year because of evolving legislation, and this can significantly impact coverage, premiums and prescription drug costs. Taking the time now to evaluate your options ensures you’re not caught off guard and that you’re positioned with the plan that best fits your needs.
What are the biggest pitfalls to avoid when picking a Medicare plan?
Two of the most common mistakes are choosing the wrong type of plan or spending more money than necessary. What’s right for your neighbor may not be right for you. That’s why I always take the time to sit down with each person and look at the individual needs. For example, you don’t want to choose a plan based on price alone. Many people look only at the monthly premium without considering deductibles, copays or drug coverage.
Is it better to stay on employer benefits or switch to Medicare for those still working over 65?
If someone is staying with their employer insurance, the first questions are how much is your current premium and how much is your deductible? In some cases, it’s less expensive to transition into Medicare. The only way to know for sure is to sit down and do a full needs analysis.
What is special about your business Navigating My Medicare?
I’m local, licensed and certified—and my consultations are always free. This is what I do full-time because the need in our community is so great. As we head into the annual enrollment period, it’s the perfect opportunity to compare where you are today with what’s coming in 2026.