Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage: Which fits your life and budget?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is run by the federal government. Medicare Advantage (Part C) is offered by private insurers approved by Medicare and replaces how you receive your Part A and B benefits.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.
The short answer
Original Medicare
Best if you want to see any provider that accepts Medicare nationwide and plan to add a Supplement and Part D plan.
Medicare Advantage
Best if you prefer one bundled plan with drug coverage, extra benefits and a yearly out-of-pocket maximum.
Side-by-side comparison
| What matters | Original Medicare | Medicare Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Who runs it | The federal government | Private insurers approved by Medicare |
| Doctor choice | Any provider in the U.S. that accepts Medicare | Usually an HMO or PPO network |
| Out-of-pocket maximum | None unless you add a Supplement | Yes, every plan has one |
| Drug coverage | Add a separate Part D plan | Usually included |
| Extras | No routine dental, vision or hearing | Often includes dental, vision, hearing |
Original Medicare in detail
Original Medicare covers hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) services. It typically leaves 20% coinsurance with no cap, which is why many people add a Medigap policy.
Medicare Advantage in detail
Medicare Advantage plans cover everything Original Medicare does and usually add prescription drugs and extras, in exchange for using a network and paying copays as you use care.
Original Medicare: pros and cons
- Nationwide provider choice
- No referrals
- Pairs with Medigap for predictable costs
- No out-of-pocket cap on its own
- Drug coverage purchased separately
Medicare Advantage: pros and cons
- All-in-one coverage
- Annual out-of-pocket maximum
- Extra benefits
- Network restrictions
- Benefits can change yearly
Still unsure? Get guidance.
A licensed, bilingual advisor will walk you through these options for your situation — free, with no obligation.
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