Medicare Advantage (MA) plans provide an alternative to Original Medicare and often include extra benefits like vision, dental, and prescription drug coverage. These plans generally have low or $0 premiums but may involve copays, coinsurance, and network restrictions. You may need referrals for specialist care, and coverage can vary by plan. It’s important to compare options to ensure the plan meets your healthcare needs.

Medicare Supplement plans help cover out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare doesn’t, such as copays and deductibles. These plans offer flexibility, letting you see any doctor that accepts Medicare without needing referrals. While Medigap premiums are higher than those of Medicare Advantage plans, they provide broader access to providers. You’ll also need to enroll in a separate Part D plan for prescription drug coverage.

Part D covers prescription medications, either through a Medicare Advantage plan or a separate standalone plan. 

Starting in 2025, a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs will be implemented, and a new payment plan option will allow monthly billing for prescriptions.  If you

have a Medicare Supplement

plan, you’ll need to add a Part D plan to ensure coverage and

avoid penalties.