Medicare Plans Made Simple

Your Medicare Coverage Options

Most people choose between Original Medicare with optional supplemental coverage or a Medicare Advantage plan. The right approach depends on your doctors, prescriptions, travel habits, budget, and preference for predictable costs.

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Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, is another way to receive your Medicare benefits through a private insurance company approved by Medicare. Plans cover Part A and Part B services, and many include prescription drug coverage and additional benefits.

• Often uses a provider network
• May include prescription drug coverage
• May include dental, vision, hearing, or wellness benefits
• Has plan-specific copayments, coinsurance, rules, and annual out-of-pocket limits

A good fit may depend on: your doctors, hospitals, prescriptions, preferred pharmacies, travel needs, and expected health-care usage.

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Medicare Supplement Insurance

Medicare Supplement Insurance, commonly called Medigap, works alongside Original Medicare. It can help pay some deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments that Original Medicare does not pay.

• Works with Original Medicare Part A and Part B
• Generally allows use of any provider that accepts Medicare
• Requires a separate monthly premium
• Usually does not include prescription drug coverage

A good fit may depend on: how much provider flexibility you want, your travel patterns, premium budget, and preference for predictable medical costs.

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Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans

Medicare Part D helps cover brand-name and generic prescription drugs. Coverage may come through a stand-alone Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage.

• Each plan has its own formulary, pharmacy network, and cost-sharing structure
• Your prescriptions and preferred pharmacies should be checked before enrolling
• Going without creditable drug coverage may result in a late-enrollment penalty

Common Medicare Questions

What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement?

Medicare Advantage is another way to receive Medicare benefits through a private plan. Medicare Supplement works alongside Original Medicare and helps pay certain out-of-pocket costs. You generally cannot use both at the same time.

Do I need Medicare if I am still working?

It depends on employer size, coverage type, and whether coverage is based on current employment. Check how employer coverage coordinates with Medicare before delaying enrollment.

Can I keep my doctors?

Original Medicare generally allows providers who accept Medicare, while Medicare Advantage plans may use networks. Verify doctors before enrolling.

Does Medicare cover prescription drugs?

Original Medicare does not automatically include most outpatient drug coverage. Part D may be obtained through a stand-alone plan or a Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage.

When can I change my Medicare plan?

Medicare has specific enrollment periods, including Annual Enrollment from October 15 through December 7. Other opportunities may apply based on your circumstances.