Just using your Medicare Card Alone
If you’re only using your Original Medicare card (Part A and Part B), you might not realize that you’re missing out on a whole world of options to help manage your healthcare needs. Original Medicare doesn’t cover everything—leaving gaps in prescription drug coverage,
vision, dental, and out-of-pocket costs.
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is your chance to review your options and consider whether a different plan might better meet your needs. In this post, we’ll walk through
some options that might be a better fit for you, and how Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans compare to Original Medicare.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are an increasingly popular choice for those looking to combine their Medicare benefits (Parts A and B) with extra perks like prescription drug
coverage, dental, vision, and wellness programs—all in one plan.
1. Medicare Advantage: Is It Right for You?
Why Consider Medicare Advantage?
- Low or $0 premiums: Many Advantage plans offer low-cost premiums, making them appealing for those on a fixed income.
- Additional coverage: Beyond medical care, many Advantage plans include coverage for prescriptions, dental, vision, and hearing —benefits not provided by Original Medicare.
- Out-of-pocket maximums: Advantage plans have annual out-of-pocket maximums, which means there’s a cap on what you’ll pay for covered services in a year.
However, Advantage plans aren’t for everyone. Network restrictions and referral
requirements can limit flexibility compared to other plans. If you travel often or prefer to choose your doctor freely, you might want to consider other options.
2. Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)
Medicare Supplement plans (also called Medigap) help pay for the gaps in coverage left by Original Medicare. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and can cover co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles that you would otherwise pay out of pocket.
Why Consider a Medicare Supplement Plan?
- No network restrictions: You can see any doctor who accepts Medicare, which is great for those who value flexibility.
- Predictable costs: Medigap plans offer set premiums and coverage, so you know what to expect each month.
- Nationwide access: If you travel or live in different states during the year, Medigap makes it easier to find providers across the country.
Medicare Supplement Plan G
Plan G is one of the most popular Medigap plans because it offers extensive coverage,
including covering almost all of the gaps in Original Medicare, except the Part B deductible. However, Plan G premiums can be higher than a Medicare Advantage plan or even some other Medigap plans.
For those with chronic conditions or who need frequent care, Medigap Plan G might provide greater peace of mind because it covers most out-of-pocket costs once the deductible is met.
High Deductible Plan G (HDG)
If you’re healthy and don’t expect to use many healthcare services, the High Deductible Plan G (HDG) could be a great alternative to traditional Medigap Plan G. It works similarly but with a higher deductible ($2,800 in 2025) that you must pay out-of-pocket before the plan kicks in.
Why Consider HDG?
- Lower premiums: Since you’re agreeing to take on a higher deductible, your monthly premiums will be significantly lower.
- Same coverage as Plan G: Once the deductible is met, you get the same benefits as the regular Plan G comprehensive coverage for most healthcare costs.
3. Special Needs Plans (SNPs)
If you have specific healthcare needs—such as a chronic condition, disability, or eligibility for both Medicare and Medicaid Special Needs Plans (SNPs) could be a great option.
These Medicare Advantage plans are tailored specifically to people with special needs, providing more coordinated care and coverage for the specific health conditions you have.
Why Consider a Special Needs Plan?
- Customized benefits: SNPs are designed for people with chronic conditions, disabilities, or specific eligibility requirements, such as dual-eligibility for both Medicare and Medicaid.
- Care coordination: SNPs help manage all aspects of care hospital visits, medications, and specialists—so you don’t have to navigate the system on your own.
- Extra benefits: Many SNPs offer additional services like transportation to doctor’s appointments, home healthcare, and other services tailored to special needs.
If you’re managing a chronic illness or have a disability, SNPs may provide better coverage and care coordination that will help you stay on top of your healthcare needs.
Is It Time for a Change?
Even if you’re happy with your current Medicare plan, it’s always worth reviewing your options during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans can
change year to year—whether it’s in terms of premiums, deductibles, or additional benefits.
Here are a few reasons you might want to consider making a switch
- Plan changes: Your current plan may have increased premiums, reduced benefits, or a smaller network of doctors.
- Health changes: If you’ve developed new health conditions, you may need more comprehensive coverage.
- Prescription changes: Your medications may no longer be covered under your current Part D or Medicare Advantage plan.
The AEP is your time to review, compare options, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure you’re getting the best value for your healthcare.
Final Thoughts: Choose What’s Right for You
Choosing a Medicare plan doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding all your
options—whether it’s Medicare Advantage, Medigap, or a Special Needs Plan —you can make a decision that’s tailored to your unique needs and health situation.
Your Medicare advisor will guide you to the most appropriate plan for your individual needs, ensuring you get the right coverage and save money where possible.
Remember: The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is the perfect opportunity to review your coverage. Take your time, make an informed choice, and don’t let the overwhelming ads and solicitations cloud your judgment.
