Here’s a quick overview of key differences between common private Medicare plan types:
| Medicare Supplement plans | Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) | Medicare Cost plans | Medicare Part D plans | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage for Original Medicare Part A (hospital expenses) and Part B (medical expenses) | Parts A and B are covered | Parts A and B are covered | Parts A and B are covered | Parts A and B are notcovered |
| Part D (prescription drugs) | Part D is notcovered. But you can enroll in a separate Part D plan. | Part D is usually covered | Part D is usually not covered. But you can enroll in a separate Part D plan. | Part D is covered |
| Health care providers and pharmacies | Any provider in the U.S. who accepts Medicare is covered | Providers and pharmacies in your plan’s network are covered; out-of-network coverage varies by plan | Providers and pharmacies in your plan’s network are covered; out-of-network coverage is under Original Medicare | Pharmacies in your plan’s network are covered; out-of-network coverage varies by plan |
| How to learn more |
With private Medicare plans, everything’s based on where you call home. Whether you’re interested in a Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Cost or stand-alone Medicare Part D plan, your state and county of residence are key.
Different insurers can choose to offer different plans in different areas. So if one insurer doesn’t offer a certain kind of Medicare plan where you live, another insurer might. It’s a good idea to check around with a few different insurers to get a fuller sense of your options. You can also work with a broker so you can see all your options at once.
Once you understand which plans are available to you, answering a few questions may help you compare plans and find the right option for you.
If yes: If you have a strong relationship with your current care team, you’ll want to make sure you choose a plan that includes them in its network. Also, make sure needed specialty care is covered by your plan and confirm whether you need a referral to see a specialist.
If no: You can be more flexible in the plans you choose. For example, with a Medicare Supplement plan, you can see any doctor in the U.S. who accepts Medicare and is willing to see you. No referrals needed.
If yes: People who exceed their out-of-pocket maximums or deductibles tend to get care regularly. That might make a Medicare Supplement plan a good choice. While Medicare Supplement plans tend to have higher monthly premiums than Medicare Advantage plans, they offer more predictability in what you’ll pay (if anything) when you get care. That can make it easier to manage your budget. These plans are also guaranteed renewable every year, so if you visit the doctor a lot (or expect to in the future), they may save you money overall.
If you prefer Medicare Advantage plans, a plan with lower out-of-pocket maximums might be better for you. Though your monthly premiums may be higher in a Medicare Advantage plan that has lower out-of-pocket maximums, your copays and coinsurance amounts may also be lower when you visit the doctor.
If no: If you stay well under your deductible or out-of-pocket maximum each year, a Medicare Advantage plan with higher out-of-pocket maximums could be a good fit.
People who stay under their deductible and out-of-pocket maximums usually don’t get care very often. A plan with higher out-of-pocket maximums often means your copays and coinsurance amounts may also be higher when you visit the doctor, but your monthly premiums will typically be lower.
If yes: Consider a Medicare plan that includes prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D). When you find a plan you like, look through the plan’s drug list (formulary) to see how your medicines are covered, and look through the plan's pharmacy network to see if your favorite pharmacies are available.
If no: Even if you don’t use prescription drugs right now, you may still want to consider Medicare Part D to avoid a late-enrollment penalty later.
If yes: You might be okay having separate plans for medical and prescription drug coverage. These plans usually come with separate member ID cards.
If no: You could find having all your Medicare benefits in one plan to be more convenient.
If yes: You may be able to sign up for a combined plan for people who are dual eligible for both Medicaid (Medical Assistance) and Medicare Parts A and B. If you live in the Twin Cities or central Minnesota, our HealthPartners Minnesota Senior Health Options (MSHO) plan adds extra perks and benefits, too.
If you’re not eligible for Medical Assistance, you may still be eligible for Medicare’s Low Income Subsidy (LIS), also called Extra Help. The Medicare LIS helps cover some or all of Medicare Part D prescription drug plan costs, including premiums, deductibles and copayments.
Last updated October 2026
Y0095_005698_M Accepted 09/26/26
H2422_005698_M Accepted 09/26/26
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