The short answer
Compare access to care, prescription coverage and total costs together. Neither path is the right fit for everyone.
Start with Parts A + B. Compare two paths.
Path one
Original Medicare
- Part A + Part B
- Add a separate Part D plan for drugs
- Consider Medigap or other supplemental coverage
- Use providers who accept Medicare across the U.S.
Path two
Medicare Advantage
- Part A + Part B through a private plan
- Usually includes Part D
- Check networks and approval requirements
- Plan-specific costs and additional benefits
You generally keep paying your Part B premium on either path. Medigap does not supplement Medicare Advantage.
Make the comparison personal
List your doctors, hospital, prescriptions and preferred pharmacy. Check each plan’s current details, including service area, referrals and prior authorization. Think about travel and how much you could afford during a year with more care.
Keep the two spending limits separate
A Medicare Advantage medical out-of-pocket limit is different from the Part D drug spending limit. Premiums and services a plan does not cover can add to your total spending.
Before leaving a plan, check Medigap rights
Returning to Original Medicare does not always mean you can buy the Medigap policy you want. Outside protected enrollment opportunities, availability and price can depend on underwriting and state rules. Confirm your options before ending coverage.
A question worth asking
Does a $0 plan premium mean my care is free?
No. You generally still pay the Part B premium, and the plan may charge deductibles, copayments or coinsurance. Compare the full year’s potential costs.
Your next-step checklist
Use this for your own notes. Checkmarks are not sent to Finwell or saved when you leave.
Sources & review
Checked against the official sources below on September 11, 2026. General education, not an individual coverage or eligibility determination.
Compare coverage options — Medicare.govBuying Medigap — Medicare.govCoverage and enrollment rules can change. Confirm the details for your situation with Medicare, Social Security, your state or the specific plan. Tell us if something needs clarification.
Keep learning
What Medicare costs in 2026
A current-year reference with the important limits and exceptions in plain language.
Read the next guide →