Medicare enrollment with an experienced agent

When deciding between Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), consider the following factors:

1. Doctor & Hospital Choice:
   
   • Original Medicare:
     • You can go to any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, anywhere in the U.S.
     • No need for a referral to see a specialist.
   • Medicare Advantage:
     • Often requires using doctors and providers within the plan’s network and service area (except for emergencies).
     • Referrals may be necessary to see a specialist.

1. Cost:
   
   • Original Medicare:
     • For Part B-covered services, you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting your deductible.
     • Out-of-pocket costs vary, and you may have an additional premium.
     • No yearly limit on out-of-pocket expenses unless you have supplemental coverage like Medigap.
   • Medicare Advantage:
     • You pay a premium (monthly payment) for Part B and may also pay the plan’s premium.
     • Some plans have a $0 premium and may help cover Part B premiums.
     • Plans have a yearly limit on out-of-pocket costs for services covered by Part A and Part B.

1. Coverage:
   
   • Original Medicare:
     • Provides coverage for hospital stays (Part A) and outpatient services (Part B).
     • You can choose to buy Medigap to help pay remaining out-of-pocket costs.
   • Medicare Advantage:
     • Combines Part A, Part B, and often Part D (drug coverage) into one plan.
     • May include additional benefits like vision, dental, and fitness programs.

1. Foreign Travel:
   
   • Original Medicare:
     • Offers limited coverage for foreign travel emergencies.
   • Medicare Advantage:
     • Some plans provide emergency coverage during foreign travel.

Ultimately, your decision should align with your healthcare needs, budget, and preferences..

1. Medicare Advantage (Part C):
   
   • Structure: Medicare Advantage combines Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) into a single plan.
   • Coverage: It often includes Part D Prescription Drug coverage, as well as additional benefits like vision, hearing, dental, and fitness programs.
   • Provider Network: You typically have a restricted choice of providers, hospitals, and suppliers within the plan’s network (except for emergencies).
   • Costs:
     • Monthly Premiums: Some plans have a $0 premium, while others may require a premium payment.
     • Out-of-Pocket Limits: Plans have yearly limits on out-of-pocket costs for services covered by Part A and Part B.
   • International Travel Coverage: Some plans provide emergency coverage during foreign travel.

1. Medicare Supplement (Medigap):
   
   • Purpose: Medigap policies help pay the out-of-pocket expenses not covered by Original Medicare (Part A and Part B).
   • Coverage: These policies work alongside Original Medicare and cover expenses such as deductibles and copayments.
   • Provider Choice: You have more flexibility in choosing doctors and providers since Medigap doesn’t restrict your options.
   • Costs:
     • Premiums: Medigap plans may have higher monthly premiums, but they offer predictable monthly payments.
     • Out-of-Pocket Limits: Some Medigap plans (like K and L) have annual out-of-pocket limits.
   • Prescription Drugs: Medigap policies do not cover prescription drugs, so you’ll need to enroll in Part D separately.
   • Individual Coverage: Medigap policies cover only one person; spouses must purchase separate coverage.

In summary, Medicare Advantage provides an all-in-one solution with potential cost savings, while Medicare Supplement offers additional coverage to fill gaps in Original Medicare