Medicare Advantage plans provide an alternative to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Medicare Advantage is also known as Medicare Part C. Offered by private health insurance companies that are approved by Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans are legally required to offer at least the same benefits as Original Medicare, but may include additional routine coverage.

Medicare Part A is also known as Hospital Insurance. Many individuals are eligible for Part A at no premium. If not, Part A is also available to purchase for a monthly premium. There are deductible and coinsurance costs associated with Part A. Some benefits of Part A may include:

• ​Hospital stays
• Skilled nursing care
• Hospice Care
• Does not include long term care

Medicare Part B is also known as Medical Insurance. There is a monthly premium for Medicare Part B. It is important to enroll in Part B when first eligible to avoid a late enrollment penalty. There is an annual deductible and coinsurance expenses. Services that may be included under Part B are:​

• Physician services
• Outpatient Hospital services
• Some home health care
• DME (durable medical equipment)
• Preventative care​
  

Medicare Supplement Insurance, also called Medigap, helps cover the expenses that Original Medicare, Parts A and B, does not. Medicare Supplement Insurance policies are offered by private insurance companies.

Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D) provides coverage for prescription drugs not covered by Original Medicare. Part D plans are offered by private insurance companies. Part D may also be included in some Medicare Advantage Plans.

Medicare Advantage Plans are alternatives to Original Medicare (Parts A & B) and are offered by private insurance companies.