Medicare details can change.
Enrollment dates, plan availability, benefits, costs, and rules may be updated. Confirm current information at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.
Two common approaches are Original Medicare with a separate Part D plan and optional Medigap policy, or a Medicare Advantage plan. Neither approach is automatically best for everyone.
Original Medicare with Medigap and Part D
- Use any U.S. provider who accepts Medicare.
- Original Medicare has no annual out-of-pocket maximum by itself; a Medigap policy can help with certain cost sharing.
- Prescription coverage usually requires a separate Part D plan.
- Medigap premiums are separate, and your ability to buy a policy later may depend on guaranteed-issue rights, state law, and medical underwriting.
Medicare Advantage
- Receives Part A and Part B services through a private Medicare-approved plan.
- Usually includes Part D and may include extra benefits.
- Has an annual limit on covered Part A and Part B out-of-pocket costs, but costs and rules vary by plan.
- May use provider networks, referrals, and prior authorization.
Compare for your situation
Check providers, prescriptions, total yearly cost, travel, flexibility, prior authorization, and your future ability to change coverage. Verify all details in current plan documents before enrolling.