Medicare Plans
Understanding your Medicare options does not have to be confusing. We explain every plan in plain English so you can choose with confidence.
The Parts of Medicare
Medicare is divided into different parts. Each part covers specific services. Here is a simple breakdown so you can see what each one does.
Medicare Part A
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care services. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A because they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working.
What It Covers:
- Inpatient hospital care
- Skilled nursing facility care
- Hospice care
- Home health care
Medicare Part B
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, medical supplies, and some home health care. Part B has a monthly premium based on your income. Most people pay the standard premium amount.
What It Covers:
- Doctor visits and outpatient care
- Preventive services and screenings
- Durable medical equipment
- Mental health services
- Ambulance services
Medicare Part C
An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies. These plans include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D prescription drug coverage. Many plans also offer extra benefits Original Medicare does not cover.
What It Covers:
- Everything Part A and Part B cover
- Prescription drug coverage included on most plans
- Dental, vision, and hearing benefits often included
- Fitness programs like SilverSneakers
- Annual out-of-pocket maximum protection
Medicare Part D
Helps cover the cost of prescription medications. Offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. Each plan has a formulary listing which drugs are covered and at what cost. We help you match your medications to the right plan.
What It Covers:
- Generic and brand-name prescription drugs
- Vaccines not covered by Part B
- Wide network of pharmacies
- Mail-order options available
Medicare Supplement
Extra insurance sold by private companies to fill the gaps in Original Medicare coverage. Medigap helps pay for copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. These plans work alongside your Original Medicare coverage.
What It Covers:
- Copayments and coinsurance
- Deductibles for Part A and Part B
- Foreign travel emergency care on some plans
- Freedom to see any Medicare-accepting doctor
- No network restrictions
Plan Comparison at a Glance
See how Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Supplement, and Part D plans compare across the features that matter most.
| Feature | Original Medicare | Medicare Advantage | Supplement | Part D |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor Visits | 20% coinsurance after deductible | Low copay, often $0 to $25 | Full coverage of coinsurance | Not applicable |
| Hospital Stays | $1,632 deductible per benefit period | Daily copay, often $300 per day | Full coverage of deductible and coinsurance | Not applicable |
| Prescription Drugs | Not covered without Part D | Usually included | Not covered, need separate Part D | Varies by plan formulary |
| Dental & Vision | Not covered | Often included | Not covered | Not covered |
| Monthly Premium | Part B premium applies | $0 to low monthly premium | Higher monthly premium | Varies by plan |
| Out-of-Pocket Max | No annual limit | Yes, annual limit applies | Yes, most costs covered | Not applicable |
When Can You Enroll?
Timing matters. Here are the enrollment periods you need to know so you never miss a deadline.
Initial Enrollment Period
3 months before to 3 months after your 65th birthday
Your first opportunity to sign up for Medicare. This is a 7-month window. If you sign up before your birthday month, coverage starts the first day of your birthday month. Signing up later may delay your coverage.
Annual Enrollment Period
October 15 to December 7 each year
During this time, you can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan. Changes take effect January 1 of the following year. This is the most common time people review and update their coverage.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
January 1 to March 31 each year
If you are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or go back to Original Medicare. You can only make one change during this period.
Special Enrollment Period
Triggered by qualifying life events
Available if you move out of your plan's service area, lose other health coverage, or experience certain other life changes. The length of this period depends on the qualifying event. We can help determine if you qualify.
Not Sure Which Plan Is Right for You?
Our licensed advisors will review your doctors, medications, and budget — and show you only the plans that fit. No pressure, no confusion.