One of the biggest choices during open enrollment is how you want to receive your Medicare coverage. The two main paths are Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, and neither one is right for everyone.

The basics

Original Medicare is run by the federal government and includes Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical). Many people add a Part D plan for prescriptions and sometimes a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to help with out-of-pocket costs.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) is offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans bundle hospital and medical coverage and often include drug coverage. Many also offer extras such as dental, vision, or hearing, though benefits vary by plan.

Questions worth asking

• Are my doctors and my hospital in the plan’s network?
• Are all of my prescriptions covered, and what will they cost me?
• What is the most I could pay out of pocket in a year?
• Do I need referrals or approvals before seeing a specialist?
• Do I travel or spend part of the year in another state?
• Which extras matter to me, and are they really included?

Look beyond the monthly premium

A plan with a low premium can still carry higher copays, deductibles, or a narrower network. The right comparison looks at your likely total cost and your access to the care you use, not just the number on the first line.

Remember the deadline

Open enrollment ends on December 7. If you want help comparing, it is easiest to book in October or early November before calendars fill up.

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 7 organizations which offer 50 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Want help comparing? Contact Kassi Pagel, Benefits Producer, at 715-387-6010 or kassi.pagel@marshfieldinsurance.net. Learn more at www.MarshfieldInsurance.agency.