The five building blocks of Medicare — Original Medicare (Parts A & B), optional drug and supplement coverage, and all-in-one Advantage plans.
Most people choose either Original Medicare plus supplements, or a Medicare Advantage plan. You cannot have Medigap and Advantage at the same time.
| Path | Includes | Often best for |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare | Part A + Part B, plus optional Part D and Medigap | Freedom to see any Medicare provider nationwide |
| Medicare Advantage | Part A + Part B + usually Part D in one plan | Predictable copays and extra benefits (dental, vision) |
2026 standard Part B premium: $202.90/month. Part A hospital deductible: $1,736 per benefit period. Higher-income beneficiaries may pay more for Part B and Part D.
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care (after a qualifying hospital stay), hospice, and some home health services. Most people pay no Part A premium if they or a spouse paid Medicare taxes for 10+ years.
Covers physician visits, outpatient care, preventive services (screenings, vaccines), lab work, mental health, and durable medical equipment. You pay the monthly Part B premium plus an annual deductible and typically 20% coinsurance for most services.
Private plans that bundle Part A and Part B — and usually Part D — into one policy. Plans must cover at least what Original Medicare covers and may add dental, vision, hearing, fitness, and OTC allowances. Network and referral rules vary by plan.
Standalone drug plans for people on Original Medicare (often paired with Medigap). Covers retail and mail-order prescriptions by tier — with a deductible, copays or coinsurance, and catastrophic coverage after you reach the out-of-pocket threshold.
Private policies that help pay deductibles, copays, and coinsurance Original Medicare leaves behind. Works with any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare. Does not include prescription drugs — pair with a separate Part D plan. Enrollment is easiest during your Medigap open enrollment period.
Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care, most dental/vision/hearing (unless through Advantage), or routine foot care. Penalties can apply for late Part B or Part D enrollment without other creditable coverage. A licensed FCIB Medicare specialist can compare plans in your county.
