one of the main concerns, is finding a drug plan that covers the drugs we need, [formulary] while being able to afford the plan and any co-pays the drugs will cost us. several drugs we take are hugely expensive.
as we are both on medicare, that part doesn't bother us.

Been on Medicare plus the supplement for 10 years. Type F, never have paid a dime, no copays. My agent told me five years ago the advantage plan is no good if you're sick a lot, I’ll stick with what I have, I like walking in and out, last hospital bill was $300,000 in may, 0 for me. Now other shoulder then knee in future.

I’ve got some time, but it never hurts to learn early.
Is it basically the same as shopping for home or car insurance?
Call several agents, ask friends, and decide what’s right?

For some reason I was under the impression there were only 1 or 2 choices?

When you're about to turn 65, your mailbox is full of people trying to sell you stuff. One caught my eye and I called them. Straight forward, took time to explain the options and plans, not pushy, not trying to sell me the moon. Knew what he was talking about. Name of the firm is Fairsquare Medicare. I got the regular plans along with a drug plan and one that picks up charges the first two won't.

I've had some stuff pop up that needed to be addressed. After a few years with what I signed up for, I'm happy with my decisions.

no sir, there are many choices, plans, and several companies all offering multiple plans and that is where they "gitcha".
It can be very confusing especially for an elderly person due to the choices. They are ALMOST as upfront as a used car salesperson. And it is why I put the post up. At a casual glance the existing 2024 policy appears the same as the 2025 policy. But they slipped the deductibles in for health (dr. visits) and prescriptions 🙄🙄.
Those deductibles DO NOT APPLY to the overall policy deductible. End result, Insured gets porked for another x amount (~500 to 1K) and the insurance companies save 🤑🤑🤑🤑🤑 😳😲. Who would've thought they'd be so ???