When it comes to managing your money you have many options. Similarly, you'll need to make a variety of choices about your health care. In addition to Original Medicare itself, many people choose either a "Medigap" policy to supplement some of the gaps in Medicare coverageMade up of two parts: Hospital Insurance (Part A) and Medical Insurance (Part B). (See Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance); Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance).), or a Medicare Advantage planA health plan, such as a Medicare managed care plan (HMO or PPO) or Private Fee-for-Service plan offered by a private company and approved by Medicare. An alternative to the Original Medicare Plan., such as an HMOA type of Medicare managed care plan where a group of doctors, hospitals, and other health care providers agree to give health care to Medicare beneficiaries for a set amount of money from Medicare every month. You usually must get your care from the providers in the plan., PPOA type of Medicare Advantage Plan in which you pay less if you use doctors, hospitals, and providers that belong to the network. You can use doctors, hospitals, and providers outside of the network for an additional cost., or Private Fee-for-Service (PFFSA type of Medicare Advantage Plan in which you may go to any Medicare-approved doctor or hospital that accepts the plan's payment. The insurance plan, rather than the Medicare program, decides how much it will pay and what you pay for the services you get. You may pay more or less for Medicare-covered benefits. You may have extra benefits the Original Medicare Plan doesn't cover.) plan that replaces Original MedicareA federally funded fee-for-service health plan that lets you go to any doctor, hospital, or other health care supplier who accepts Medicare and is accepting new Medicare patients..
Regardless of which plan you choose to supplement your Original Medicare coverage, we hope the Getting Started resources provide you with the information and tools you need to make the right decision for you.
What Is Medicare?
Not entirely sure what Original Medicare is, who is eligible, or what coverage you get? We're here to help.
Medicare Plan Choices
Between Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Part D, sorting through your health care options can be a little confusing. Fortunately, we're here to explain your choices so you can get the coverage you need.
Medicare Costs
Choosing the right type of Medicare coverage can help reduce your health care costs. Learn how to optimize your Medicare dollars with coverage that's right for you.
Important Dates
You can only enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan or Medicare Part D plan during certain times of the year, so be aware of these important dates.
