Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage have their own benefits and are separate from each other. One is not notably better than the other as that depends on the person who chooses to enroll. However, it is essential to understand the coverage differences between each Medicare plan to determine which plan is right for you.

Original Medicare

Original Medicare Overview:

• Original Medicare refers to Medicare Parts A and B
• Part A helps with hospital costs (as well as skilled nursing facility care and hospice care)
• Part B helps with outpatient costs (e.g., doctor’s visits, examinations, consultations, etc.)
• Excludes Part D (the prescription drug plan), as it must be purchased separately
• You can get treatment at any hospital or office in the U.S. that accepts Medicare
• You can have another form of health insurance to go along with Original Medicare

Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage Overview:

• Also called Medicare Part C
• Composite of Medicare Parts A, B, and D
• Required to offer extra benefits beyond what Original Medicare covers (e.g., dental and eye care)
• Must have Medicare Parts A and B prior to enrolling
• You cannot get supplemental insurance
• You cannot switch to a different prescription drug plan
• You will have to get referrals to see specialists

How can I choose what is right for me?

The ideal choice between Medicare plans depends on the individual.

Original Medicare is ideal for a person who:

• Travels to various parts of the U.S. This is where the fact that Original Medicare allows someone to get treatment at any facility that accepts it comes to be a deciding factor. Treatment is more accessible.
• Needs supplemental insurance. A person who qualifies for Medigap or Medicaid may not be able to afford a plan which requires an additional cost.
• Has End-Stage Renal Disease.

Medicare Advantage is ideal for someone who:

• Needs access to more affordable dental care or other services typically excluded from Original Medicare
• Wants an all-in-one coverage
• Prefers to stay within a specific network of healthcare professionals

Have questions?

There are multiple layers to Medicare insurance, and there are many great options available to you. Still, it can be a tough decision to make, and you may have some questions or concerns. You don’t have to go through this process alone. We want to help. Give us a call today at (509) 993-9887 for more information.