Medicare Plan Comparison Flowchart
- Are you eligible for Medicare?
- Yes → Go to step 2.
- No → Check eligibility at Medicare.gov.
- Do you want Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) or Medicare Advantage (Part C)?
- Original Medicare → Go to step 3.
- Medicare Advantage → Go to step 5.
- Do you need additional coverage for prescriptions?
- Yes → Consider enrolling in a Part D Prescription Drug Plan.
- No → Proceed with Original Medicare without Part D.
- Do you want to cover additional costs (e.g., deductibles, coinsurance)?
- Yes → Consider a Medigap (Supplement) Plan.
- No → You may proceed with just Original Medicare.
- Do you prefer a plan with extra benefits (e.g., dental, vision, hearing, or wellness programs)?
- Yes → Choose a Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plan that includes extra benefits.
- No → Choose a Basic Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plan.
- Which type of Medicare Advantage plan do you prefer?
- HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) → Requires using a network of doctors and specialists.
- PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) → Offers more flexibility in choosing doctors, but costs may be higher outside the network.
- SNP (Special Needs Plan) → Tailored for specific needs (e.g., chronic conditions, institutional care).
- Do you take prescription medications regularly?
- Yes → Ensure your Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plan includes Part D Prescription Drug Coverage.
- No → Proceed with your chosen Medicare Advantage plan.
- Compare Costs and Benefits of Selected Plans
- Premiums: Monthly cost.
- Deductibles: Out-of-pocket cost before coverage starts.
- Co-pays/Coinsurance: What you pay for services or medications.
- Network: Are your preferred doctors/hospitals covered?
- Additional Benefits: Dental, vision, hearing, wellness programs.
- Final Decision: Enroll in the Chosen Plan
Source: MedicareNews.us
