Compare Your Medicare Options
Once you're enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, you generally have two ways to receive your Medicare benefits: Original Medicare with an optional Medigap plan or Medicare Advantage (Part C). The comparison below highlights some of the key differences between these two coverage options.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
- Private insurance company administers your benefits
- Cost-sharing depends on your plan
- Many plans include prescription drug coverage
- Provider networks may apply
Many beneficiaries choose Medicare Advantage because it combines hospital, medical, and often prescription drug coverage into one plan while offering additional benefits not included with Original Medicare.
Original Medicare + Medigap
- Original Medicare administers your benefits
- Optional Medigap helps cover many out-of-pocket costs
- Usually requires a separate Part D plan for prescriptions
- Can generally see any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare
Many beneficiaries choose Original Medicare with Medigap for predictable healthcare costs and the flexibility to see providers nationwide who accept Medicare.