What kind of coverage do I get with Medicare Parts C and D and Medigap?

Medicare Part C = Medicare Advantage plans

• Once you have Parts A and B, you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan
• When Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription drug coverage, they're called MAPD plans
• MAPD plans are usually the lowest cost way to get Parts A, B and D together
• You'll continue to pay your Part B premium to the federal government
• Usually, you'll pay an additional monthly premium to your private insurance company, too
• Medicare Advantage plans may also include extras like dental and vision coverage
• You won't be denied due to a pre-existing condition

Medicare Part D = Prescription drug coverage

• You'll pay a monthly premium for a Part D plan unless it's included in your Medicare Advantage plan
• Each insurance company decides on a list of what drugs its Part D plan will cover (a "formulary")
• The federal government decides on some drugs Medicare will never pay for

Medigap plans = Supplemental insurance

• These plans cover costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover
• There are 10 standard Medigap plans (A through N), but not all companies offer all of them
• Plan A covers the least, Plan F covers the most if you are eligible before 1/1/20, and Plan G covers the most if you are eligible after 1/1/20
• You'll pay a monthly premium for a Medigap plan
• Medigap plans don't cover prescriptions
• You can't enroll in a Medigap plan if you have a Medicare Advantage plan
• During your guaranteed issue period you won't be denied due to a pre-existing condition

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Extra credit articles

Here are some helpful articles that can help you pick the Medicare coverage that is right for you.