Coverage types
What the different pieces actually do
The names are confusing on purpose. Here is what each one is, in plain English.
The three main types of coverage
Medicare Advantage
A private plan that replaces how you receive Parts A and B, usually with drug coverage included and a yearly cap on what you can spend.
Medicare Supplement
Keeps Original Medicare and covers what it leaves to you. Any doctor who accepts Medicare works, with no network to check.
Part D Prescriptions
Standalone drug coverage. Every plan covers a different list at different tiers, which is why your own list has to be checked by name.
Original Medicare (Parts A and B)
The federal program itself. Part A covers hospital stays, Part B covers doctor visits and outpatient care. It does not include prescription drugs, and it has no annual limit on what you pay out of pocket.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
A private plan that replaces how you receive Parts A and B, usually with prescription coverage rolled in and often extra benefits. Plans use networks, so which doctors are in that network matters a great deal.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Works alongside Original Medicare and covers costs Medicare leaves to you. Sold in standardized lettered plans, so a Plan G is a Plan G at any company. Does not include drugs, so it is usually paired with a Part D plan.
Part D prescription drug plans
Standalone drug coverage. Every plan covers a different list of drugs at different tiers, which is why your specific prescriptions have to be checked by name rather than assumed.
Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNP)
Built for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. If that is you, you may be able to review and change plans more than once a year. More on this here.
Chronic Special Needs Plans (C-SNP)
Built around specific chronic conditions. Availability depends on the plan and your eligibility, and certain benefits require a qualifying condition.
Which one is right depends entirely on you
There is no plan type that is right for everybody. It comes down to which doctors you want to keep, which prescriptions you take, whether you travel, and what you can absorb if something goes wrong. That is a ten minute conversation, not a web page.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.