COSTS:
Original Medicare – Parts A & B premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance (usually 20%).
Advantage – Parts A & B premiums, plan premiums (if the plan has one) copays & coinsurance up to the plans Annual Out-of-Pocket Maximum cost share.
SUPPLEMENT INSURANCE:
Original Medicare – you can purchase a supplemental policy to pay for some or all of the costs Medicare does not cover.
Advantage – you cannot have a supplemental policy AND Advantage at the same time.
EXTRA SERVICES:
Original Medicare – covers only medically necessary services, does not cover routine services.
Advantage – many plans cover routine services (such as dental, eyecare & hearing) as well as gym memberships, over-the-counter items, etc.
NATIONWIDE PROVIDERS:
Original Medicare – ability to see any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare.
Advantage – usually restricted to network providers the plan has set up (PPO does allow more provider choices at higher costs).
DRUG COVERAGE:
Original Medicare – does not cover prescription drugs. You must purchase a separate stand-alone drug plan.
Advantage – many plans include prescription drug coverage – saving you money.
OUT-OF-POCKET LIMITS:
Original Medicare – there is no limit on what the beneficiary can spend on healthcare.
Advantage – all plans must have an annual cost-share limit. Once you reach this, you don’t owe any more for services. The maximum is $6,700, but many plans are lower than that.
Still confused? Why not visit with a professional Medicare insurance agent and let them help you compare coverage to see what fits your needs? Call, click or come in today! You’ll be glad you did. Never a fee for appointments!
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