Compare Options

Your Main Medicare Choices

When you turn 65, you have two main paths for Medicare coverage. Each has different benefits, costs, and rules.

Most people pick Original Medicare with a supplement plan or Medicare Advantage. Here's how to decide what works best for you.

Original Medicare + Medigap

This is the traditional Medicare setup. You get Part A and Part B from the government, then add a private supplement plan (Medigap) to fill the gaps.

What You Get

• See any doctor who accepts Medicare
• No referrals needed for specialists
• Coverage anywhere in the U.S.
• Predictable costs with Medigap

What You Pay

• Part B premium: $$185.00/month in 2025
• Medigap premium: $100–$300/month depending on plan
• Part D drug plan: $30–$60/month
• Total: Around $300–$450/month

Medicare Advantage

This is an alternative way to receive your Part A and Part B benefits through a private insurer. Many plans bundle prescription drug coverage and some supplemental perks (dental, vision, limited hearing, fitness). These perks, provider networks, and annual cost structures vary by plan and may change each year.

Potential Advantages

• Often extra benefits like dental, vision, wellness programs
• Prescription drug coverage usually included
• Lower monthly premiums (many are $0)
• Annual cap on out-of-pocket costs

Key Tradeoffs

• Must use plan's network of doctors
• May need referrals for specialists
• Coverage limited to your local area
• Plan benefits can change each year

Which Option Costs Less?

Total cost depends on utilization. Advantage can feel cheaper month-to-month if you use little care, but episodic or frequent services can push you toward the annual maximum. Original Medicare + Medigap is a higher fixed monthly commitment that smooths costs when you need more care.

Think of it as variable (Advantage) vs more predictable (Original + Medigap) cost profiles.

If You're Healthy

You may spend less overall in a low-use year with Advantage if you rarely see doctors and stay in network.

If You Have Health Issues

Original Medicare with Medigap often limits surprises by covering most Part A & B cost sharing, especially if you anticipate visiting multiple specialists or managing chronic conditions.

What About Prescription Drugs?

Both paths can include prescription drug coverage, but they work differently.

With Original Medicare

You need a separate Part D plan. Shop for one that covers your specific medications at the lowest cost.

With Medicare Advantage

Drug coverage is usually built into the plan. Check that your medications are covered before enrolling.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Do you travel a lot?

Original Medicare works anywhere in the U.S. Medicare Advantage plans usually limit coverage to your home area.

Do you have favorite doctors?

With Original Medicare, you can see any doctor who accepts Medicare. With Medicare Advantage, you're limited to the plan's network.

Do you want predictable costs?

Medigap plans give you predictable monthly costs. Medicare Advantage plans have lower premiums but higher costs when you use care.

Do you want extra benefits?

Some Medicare Advantage plans include limited dental, vision or wellness allowances. Evaluate the dollar value vs any higher copays or narrower provider access.

When Can You Switch?

You can change from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare during Open Enrollment (October 15 to December 7) each year.

You can also switch during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31).

Important: If you switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare after your first year on Medicare, you might not be able to get a Medigap plan without medical underwriting.

Getting Help With Your Decision

You don't have to figure this out alone. Start by writing down your priorities (doctor access, predictable costs, extra benefits).

Use structured internal guides like our Beginner's Guide and Medicare Questions resources to clarify concepts before comparing plan details. If you still want a one‑on‑one walkthrough, schedule a review and bring your doctor list and medications.

Making Your Choice

There's no universally "best" option. The right choice depends on your health, budget, and preferences.

Start with your priorities. Do you value doctor choice and predictable costs? Or do you prefer lower premiums and extra benefits?

Remember, you can change your mind each year during Open Enrollment. Don't stress too much about making the perfect choice right away.