Medicare coverage options
Find the Medicare plan that fits your life
We compare plans from 20+ carriers so you don't have to. As an independent broker, we work for you — not the insurance companies.
Original Medicare is just the starting point
Medicare Parts A and B cover hospital stays and doctor visits, but they leave significant gaps — including copays, coinsurance, and no out-of-pocket maximum. That's where supplemental coverage comes in.
There are two main ways to fill those gaps: a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan that works alongside Original Medicare, or a Medicare Advantage plan that replaces it. Both have pros and cons — and the right choice depends on your health, lifestyle, and budget.
Medicare Supplement
Also called Medigap
A Medicare Supplement plan works alongside Original Medicare (Parts A & B) to cover the out-of-pocket costs Medicare doesn't pay — like copays, coinsurance, and deductibles. You keep full freedom to see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare, anywhere in the country.
Best for people who want predictable costs, travel frequently, or see specialists regularly.
- See any Medicare-accepting doctor nationwide — no networks, no referrals
- Predictable monthly premiums with little to no surprise bills
- No prior authorization required for covered services
- Ideal for frequent travelers and snowbirds
- Guaranteed renewable — can't be cancelled if you pay premiums
Available plan types
Medicare Advantage
Also called Part C
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers approved by Medicare. They bundle Parts A, B, and usually Part D (prescription drugs) into one plan — and often include extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
Best for people who want low or $0 premiums and don't mind using a network of providers.
- Often $0 or very low monthly premiums
- Bundled prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- Extra benefits: dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs
- Annual out-of-pocket maximum protects against catastrophic costs
- Wide variety of plan types: HMO, PPO, PFFS, and more
Available plan types
Supplement vs. Advantage at a glance
| Feature | Medicare Supplement | Medicare Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly premium | Higher | Often $0–low |
| Doctor choice | Any Medicare doctor nationwide | Network-based (varies by plan) |
| Referrals needed | No | Often yes (HMO) |
| Prescription drugs | Separate Part D plan needed | Usually included |
| Dental / Vision / Hearing | Not included | Often included |
| Out-of-pocket max | Very low (plan covers most costs) | Set annual limit |
| Best for | Predictability & travel | Low premiums & extra benefits |
Who qualifies
Medicare eligibility basics
Age 65+
Most Americans become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. You can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period — the 7-month window around your 65th birthday.
Under 65 with a disability
If you've received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months, you automatically qualify for Medicare regardless of age.
End-Stage Renal Disease or ALS
People with ESRD (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant) or ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) qualify at any age.
Enrollment periods
When can you enroll?
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
7 months around your 65th birthday
Starts 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after. This is the best time to enroll — you won't face late penalties.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
October 15 – December 7 each year
During AEP you can switch Medicare Advantage plans, switch from Advantage back to Original Medicare, or change your Part D drug plan. Changes take effect January 1.
Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
Triggered by qualifying life events
If you lose employer coverage, move out of your plan's service area, or experience other qualifying events, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period.
Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment
6 months starting when you enroll in Part B
During this window, insurers cannot deny you a Medigap policy or charge more due to pre-existing conditions. After it closes, medical underwriting may apply.
Not sure which plan is right for you?
Our licensed advisors will walk you through your options at no cost — no pressure, no obligation.