10/15/2026
Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage both provide Medicare coverage—but they work differently.
🔹 Original Medicare: The federal program includes Part A and Part B. You can see any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare. Many people add a separate Part D prescription drug plan and may consider a Medigap policy to help with certain out-of-pocket costs.
🔹 Medicare Advantage: A private plan approved by Medicare that provides your Part A and Part B benefits. Plans often include prescription drug coverage and may offer extra benefits, but they commonly use provider networks and plan-specific cost-sharing rules.
Questions to consider:
• Are your doctors, hospitals, medications, and pharmacies covered?
• What will you pay in premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance?
• Do you want nationwide provider flexibility or are you comfortable using a plan network?
• How important are additional benefits such as routine dental, vision, or hearing services?
⚠️ There is no single best choice for everyone. Compare the total costs, coverage rules, and provider access based on your individual needs—and review your options each year.
A local Bay Aging VICAP counselor can help you compare plans with free, unbiased guidance. Call 1-866-758-2386 Ext: 1235 or email: [email protected].
