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Medicare Coverage Options

When it comes to choosing the right Medicare coverage, it is important to understand all of your options. We’re here to help you make the right choice – that’s the Benefit of Blue.

Why Purchase Other Medicare Coverage?

Medicare Part A and Part B (Original Medicare) do not cover all medical expenses. Additional coverage could help you better manage or limit your out-of-pocket expenses.

For example, Medicare Part A and Part B do not cover:

  • Hearing aids
  • Routine vision care
  • Routine dental care
  • Extended long-term care
  • Custodial care

Other Medicare coverage is available through private health insurance companies:

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer all Medicare Part A and Part B benefits, plus additional services, such as wellness programs, hearing aids and vision services, generally with lower cost sharing and an annual out-of-pocket maximum.

Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D) is an option for those with Original Medicare. It covers prescription drug costs. Individuals enrolled in Medicare Advantage do not need to purchase a Part D plan.

Medigap (Medicare Supplement) is an option for those with Original Medicare. It covers the out-of-pocket costs for the health expenses not typically covered by Medicare Parts A and B (Original Medicare). Individuals enrolled in Medicare Advantage do not need to purchase a Medigap plan.

Your Options at a Glance 

Option 1

Enroll in Original Medicare when you become eligible.
 
 

original medicare

Option 2

Enroll in Original Medicare when you become eligible, and consider selecting a Part D and/or a Medigap plan.

Medicare supplement

Consider purchasing a Part D plan for help covering your prescription drug costs.

Add medicare

Consider purchasing a Medigap plan for help filling in specific cost-sharing gaps for Medicare Part A and Part B (Original Medicare).

Option 3

Enroll in Original Medicare when you become eligible, and consider selecting a Medicare Advantage plan.

Medicare Advantage

Consider purchasing a Medicare Advantage plan for coverage that offers all Medicare Part A and Part B benefits while generally including some additional services, such as wellness programs, hearing aids and vision services. Also, most plans (such as PPO and HMO plans) include prescription drug coverage.

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Important Considerations
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Everyone’s health needs, finances and lifestyles are not the same. You should consider these factors carefully when evaluating the different Medicare coverage options.
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One Plan
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Do you want the convenience of medical and drug coverage under one plan? Consider a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan that includes prescription drug coverage.

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Hearing and Vision Benefits
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Do you need hearing and vision benefits? A Medicare Advantage plan may provide the level of benefits you need.

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Freedom to Travel
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Do you want the freedom to travel domestically and take your benefits with you? When considering other Medicare coverage options, keep in mind with Medigap plans you can receive services anywhere you go. On the other hand, Medicare Advantage plans typically have a network but will cover urgent and emergency services anywhere in the country.

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Limited Coverage
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Do you want limited medical coverage and prescription drug benefits? Medicare Parts A and B combined with a stand-alone Part D plan may meet your needs. However, you will be responsible for all Part A and B insurance deductibles and cost sharing amounts.

For help evaluating these and other relevant factors, contact your local Blue Cross Blue Shield company for assistance with choosing the Medicare option available in your area that will best meet your needs and finances.