Is Medicare Different in Each State? How Louisiana Compares

If you're nearing retirement or helping a loved one understand Medicare, you may be asking: "Is Medicare the same everywhere? Or does it change from state to state?" Great question. Let's walk through that together.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program, so the foundation stays the same across the country. But—and it’s a big but—the coverage options, plan availability, and costs can change depending on where you live. For folks here in Louisiana, that means you’ve got some unique choices to explore. And we're here to help.

At Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC, we’re proud to be part of the Thibodaux, Louisiana community, offering personalized help with Medicare enrollment and guidance. Whether you’re brand new to Medicare or looking to switch plans, we’ve got your back. Call us today at (985) 803-8999 to get started.

Medicare Enrollment & the Basics: The Same Across the U.S.

First off, let’s cover what doesn’t change. The main parts of Medicare—Medicare Part A and Part B—are the same in every state. This is what people call Original Medicare. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Part A helps cover hospital stays and skilled nursing care.

• Part B covers doctor visits, lab work, and outpatient care.

When you enroll in Medicare, you’re automatically eligible for these two parts if you’re 65 or older (or younger with certain health conditions). The Medicare enrollment process and enrollment periods are the same no matter where you live.

That’s the solid, steady foundation—but here’s where it gets more personal.

Medicare Advantage Plans in Louisiana: Coverage Options That Vary by Zip Code

Now this is where it gets interesting. The Medicare Advantage plan—also called Part C—is an alternative to Original Medicare. These plans are offered by private insurance companies, and they can include extra benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug plan or coverage.

Here in Louisiana, we have 99 Medicare Advantage plans available in 2025. Some parishes offer more than 20 options, while others offer fewer.

Each Medicare Advantage plan in Louisiana is different in terms of costs, coverage, and networks. Some plans offer $0 monthly premiums, while others charge more but offer wider coverage.

This is why local help matters. The plan you choose should match your needs, your doctors, and your prescriptions. Still unsure where to start? Give us a ring at (985) 803-8999 and speak with someone who really knows Medicare in Louisiana.

Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage Options in Louisiana

Medicare Part D is for prescription drugs. You can get Part D on its own (if you stick with Original Medicare) or it might be included in your Medicare Advantage plan.

In Louisiana, there are 14 stand-alone Part D plans available in 2025. Some have low premiums, some have low deductibles—it all depends on what medications you take.

Shopping for prescription drug coverage can be overwhelming. Formularies (the list of drugs covered) vary from plan to plan. That’s why we always recommend reviewing your meds with a local expert before signing up.

Medicare Supplement Plans in Louisiana: Filling the Gaps

Original Medicare doesn’t cover everything. That’s where Medicare Supplement Insurance, also called Medigap, comes in.

These plans help pay for things like:

• Deductibles

• Copayments

• Coinsurance

There are 10 standardized Medicare Supplement plans, labeled A through N. The good news? They’re standardized across the country, which means a Plan G in Louisiana covers the same things as a Plan G in another state.

But—the prices and availability vary by area. Here in Thibodaux, some Medigap plans in Louisiana might be more affordable than in larger cities, depending on your age and zip code.

We’ll gladly help you compare options and see what suits your needs best.

What Makes Medicare in Louisiana Different?

So, how does Medicare in Louisiana really compare to other states?

• More Choices: With many Medicare Advantage options, we’ve got a lot to work with

• Higher Healthcare Costs: Louisiana has higher spending per enrollee compared to the national average

• More Variety: Each parish has different networks, providers, and plan availability

In short, Louisiana’s Medicare market is rich with options—but that also means it can feel a little tricky. That’s where having a local guide makes all the difference.

How to Choose the Right Medicare Plan in Louisiana

Feeling unsure about all these parts and plans? That’s perfectly normal. Let’s break it down together.

1. Start with your needs: Do you travel often? See multiple doctors? Take prescriptions?

2. Decide between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage: Each comes with pros and cons.

3. Check the extras: Do you need dental, hearing, or vision coverage?

4. Understand the costs: Some plans have $0 premiums, but higher out-of-pocket costs. Others offer more coverage but charge monthly fees.

5. Get personal help: Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all. Let us help you match the plan to your life.

Let’s Make Medicare Simple, Together

At Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC, we’re not just licensed to help—we care. We live and work right here in Thibodaux, and we understand the local landscape. We know which doctors are in which networks, what plans tend to work best, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

We take pride in walking our neighbors through the Medicare enrollment process step by step.

Whether you’re looking at Medicare Advantage plans also, Medicare Part C, a Medicare Supplement plan, or just want to learn more about Medicare in general—we’re here with honest answers.

Call Today to Compare Medicare Plans in Your Area

Choosing a Medicare plan shouldn’t be stressful. It should be personal, clear, and done with care. And that’s how we do things at Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC.

So if you’re:

• Turning 65 soon

• Retiring and need coverage

• Helping a parent figure it all out

• Just want to review your current coverage

Let’s talk. Call us at (985) 803-8999. Or swing by our office in Thibodaux, Louisiana. We’re happy to help you find the right Medicare coverage options for your life and budget.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. We’re your local Medicare experts—and your neighbors.