Can You Have Both Medicare and Medicare Advantage?

Can You Have Both Medicare and Medicare Advantage?

December 07, 20243 min read

Understanding Original Medicare

Original Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance to people aged 65 and older, and to some younger people with disabilities. It includes two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A covers hospital services, while Part B covers medical services such as doctor visits and outpatient care. These components work together to offer basic health insurance coverage.

Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage: Key Differences

When comparing Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, it's important to understand that Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, is an alternative to Original Medicare. While Original Medicare provides coverage directly through the federal government, Medicare Advantage Plans are provided by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.

  • Original Medicare: Includes Parts A and B, with the option to add Part D for prescription drug coverage and Medigap for supplemental insurance.

  • Medicare Advantage: Combines Parts A and B, often includes Part D, and may offer extra benefits like vision and dental coverage.

Exploring Medigap and Medicare Supplement Insurance

Medigap, or Medicare Supplement Insurance, is designed to cover out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare does not cover, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Medigap policies are sold by private insurance companies and require that you have both Part A and Part B.

Choosing Between Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage

Deciding between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage depends on your specific needs and preferences. Original Medicare offers flexibility in choosing healthcare providers, while Medicare Advantage Plans may offer additional benefits like prescription drug coverage, dental, and vision.

Medicare Advantage Plan: What You Need to Know

Medicare Advantage Plans are required to offer the same services as Original Medicare and can include additional services. These plans often have a network of doctors and hospitals that accept Medicare, and they may have lower out-of-pocket costs compared to Original Medicare.

Medicare Supplement Options

If you choose Original Medicare, you can buy a Medigap policy to help with extra costs. Each Medigap policy offers different coverage options, and you can compare plans to find the one that best suits your needs.

Transitioning from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage

Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan can be done during specific enrollment periods. It's essential to compare plans and understand how your current coverage will change before making the switch.

The Best Medicare Options for You

Finding the best Medicare Plan depends on your healthcare needs, budget, and whether you want additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare. Many Medicare Advantage Plans offer comprehensive coverage that includes prescription drug plans and extra benefits.

Comparing Plans: Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage

When comparing Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, consider factors such as coverage, costs, and provider networks. Original Medicare allows more freedom in choosing healthcare providers, whereas Medicare Advantage may offer lower costs and additional benefits.

Making the Right Choice: Medicare Advantage and Medicare

Choosing between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare with a Medigap policy involves weighing the benefits of each. Consider your health needs, budget, and whether you prefer the flexibility of Original Medicare or the added benefits of Medicare Advantage.

We're Here to Help

If you have questions about Medicare coverage options or need help choosing the right plan, contact Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC. Our team in Thibodaux, Louisiana, is ready to assist you. Call us today at (985) 803-8999 to discuss your Medicare needs and find the best plan for you.

Price Started in the insurance industry over 20 years ago. Working for several well known large corporations over the years but found he could serve his clients and community better as an Independent Agency offering Medicare Supplements (Medigap), Medicare Advantage Plans, Prescription Drug Plans (PDP), and Retirement Planning Services.

Price has spent years building one of the top agencies in the Thibodaux, Louisiana. Dedicated to finding the best solutions and staying up to date on insurance trends and products.

Price Bourgeois

Price Started in the insurance industry over 20 years ago. Working for several well known large corporations over the years but found he could serve his clients and community better as an Independent Agency offering Medicare Supplements (Medigap), Medicare Advantage Plans, Prescription Drug Plans (PDP), and Retirement Planning Services. Price has spent years building one of the top agencies in the Thibodaux, Louisiana. Dedicated to finding the best solutions and staying up to date on insurance trends and products.

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