Medicare Coverage Options

It Starts with Original Medicare

Original Medicare (Parts A & B) is provided by the federal government. It helps pay for hospital stays and doctor visits, but it doesn’t cover everything.

Original Medicare

Provided by the federal government

Helps pay for hospital stays and inpatient care

Helps pay for doctor visits and outpatient care


Options for Additional Coverage

Many individuals find the coverage provided by Original Medicare to be inadequate. In such cases, there are options for additional coverage offered by private companies.

OPTION 1

Choose a Medicare Advantage Plan

Medicare Advantage Plan

Offered by private companies

Combines Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) in one plan

Usually includes prescription drug coverage

May offer additional benefits not provided by Original Medicare

OPTION 2

Add one or both to Original Medicare

Medicare Supplement Plan

Offered by private companies

Helps pay some of the out-of-pocket costs that come with Original Medicare

AND / OR

Medicare Part D Plan

Offered by private companies

Helps pay for prescription drugs


Options for Combining Coverage

Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all. Parts and plans can be combined to customize coverage. There are 7 possible combinations.

ORIGINAL MEDICARE OPTIONS


Original Medicare (Parts A & B) or just Part A or just Part B

Original Medicare (Parts A & B) plus a standalone Part D plan

MEDICARE ADVANTAGE OPTIONS


A Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan with built-in drug coverage

A Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan without drug coverage

A Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan without drug coverage plus a standalone Part D plan; only works with certain Medicare Advantage plan types

MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT OPTIONS


Original Medicare (Parts A & B) plus a standalone Part D plan plus a Medicare supplement plan

Original Medicare (Parts A & B) plus a Medicare supplement plan

More Info
Medicare: Coverage Options