The big choice
Two ways to receive your Medicare benefits
Both begin with Part A and Part B. The difference is how coverage is organized and what rules you follow.
Feature
A + BOriginal Medicare
CMedicare Advantage (Part C)
Doctors
Any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that takes Medicare
Usually a local network; out-of-network care may cost more or not be covered
Drug coverage
Add a separate Part D plan
Usually included in the plan
Medical out-of-pocket limit
No built-in yearly limit unless you have supplemental coverage
Every plan has a yearly limit for covered Medicare services
Extra benefits
Generally not routine dental, vision, or hearing
May include dental, vision, hearing, fitness, or other benefits
Plan rules
Usually no referrals or prior authorization for covered care
May require referrals, prior authorization, and network use
60-second decision aid
Which path should you explore first?
Choose what sounds more like you. This is a starting point—not a plan recommendation.