How to choose the best type of Medicare coverage for you
Lesson 3
Once you have Original Medicare (Parts A and B), you have options. Not sure which is right for you? Here's some help.
Choose to stay with just Original Medicare if ...
- You don't go to the doctor often
- You have other coverage through an employer, TRICARE or the Veterans Administration (VA)
- Paying about 20% of all your hospital and medical costs is affordable for you
- You don't need prescription drug coverage, or you have it already
Add a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan if ...
- You want a plan that covers some or all of the costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover
- Paying less - or paying nothing - when you get medical care outweighs having higher monthly premiums
- You don't need prescription drug coverage, or you want to buy it separately
- You want the freedom to see any doctor who accepts Medicare
- You live outside of Michigan for more than a month each year and want to pay the same amount whether you see a doctor at home or away
Choose a Medicare Advantage with prescription drug (MAPD) plan if ...
- Paying lower monthly premiums than Medigap is important to you
- You want to get Medicare Part D bundled with your Medicare Parts A and B
- You prefer predictable copayments and deductibles over paying a deductible or 20% of costs
- A plan that pays 100% of your costs once you've paid the out-of-pocket limit gives you peace of mind
- You want to see doctors in the plan's network, which will save you money
- You don't plan to see a doctor while you're away
- You want a single card and one company for your Medicare
- The plan includes extras you want, such as dental and a free gym membership
Test yourself
Extra credit articles
Here are some helpful articles that can help you pick the Medicare coverage that is right for you.

What if I have other coverage?

About Medicare 5-star plan ratings

Medicare coverage options at a glance

Why do I need Medicare Part D?
Ready to pick a plan?
Review our Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans to find the plan that is best for you.