Compare Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap and Part D drug plans from top US carriers — Humana, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna and more. Free, unbiased guidance.
Medicare has several parts and plan types — understanding each one is the key to choosing the right coverage.
Government coverage for hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) services. No network restrictions — see any doctor who accepts Medicare.
Private insurance that replaces Original Medicare — often includes dental, vision, hearing and drug coverage at low or $0 premiums.
Works alongside Original Medicare to cover copays, deductibles and coinsurance — dramatically reducing your out-of-pocket costs.
Stand-alone prescription drug coverage to add to Original Medicare or Medigap. Required to avoid late enrollment penalties.
Medicare Advantage plans designed for people with specific chronic conditions, dual Medicare/Medicaid eligibility or institutional needs.
If you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, you may get extra benefits and very low or zero cost-sharing through dual eligible plans.
Estimate your monthly Medicare costs based on your situation and plan type.
* Estimates based on 2026 averages. Actual costs vary by plan, location and health. Get personalized plan help →
Medicare is divided into parts — here’s what each one covers and what you pay.
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice and some home health services. Most people pay $0 premium for Part A if they worked 40+ quarters.
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, durable medical equipment. Standard 2026 premium: $174.70/month. You pay 20% of most services after deductible.
Offered by private insurers approved by Medicare. Must include all Part A and B benefits. Often adds dental, vision, hearing and prescription drugs. Usually has lower premiums than Medigap.
Stand-alone drug plans from private insurers. Covers most prescription medications. Major change in 2026: $2,000 annual out-of-pocket cap on drug costs — a huge improvement.
Private plans that fill the “gaps” in Original Medicare — covering deductibles, copays and coinsurance. Plan G is the most comprehensive plan available to 2020+ enrollees.
Initial Enrollment: 7-month window around your 65th birthday. Annual Enrollment: Oct 15–Dec 7 each year. Special Enrollment: triggered by life events. Missing windows can mean late penalties.
| Feature | Medicare Advantage | Medigap + Part D |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | Often $0–$50/mo | $100–$250+/mo total |
| Out-of-Pocket Max | $8,850 (2026 max) | Very low to zero |
| Provider Network | Usually restricted (HMO/PPO) | Any Medicare provider nationwide |
| Drug Coverage | Usually included | Need separate Part D plan |
| Extra Benefits | Dental, vision, hearing | None typically |
| Best For | Lower premiums, good health | Frequent users, travelers |
Common questions from Americans approaching Medicare eligibility or switching plans.
Compare Medicare Advantage, Medigap and Part D plans from top carriers — free guidance from licensed Medicare advisors.