How Do I Choose the Right Medicare Plan for Me?

Josh Willink
Jun 2
2 min read

Choosing a Medicare plan can feel overwhelming at first — you’re hit with options like Part A, Part B, Part D, Medicare Advantage, Medigap… and you’re left wondering:

“Where do I even start?”

Good news: you don’t have to figure it out alone. Here’s a simple, step-by-step process to help you narrow down your options and choose the right Medicare plan for you.

Step 1: Understand Your Base Coverage

Everyone starts with Original Medicare:

✅ Part A (hospital insurance)

✅ Part B (medical insurance)

But on its own, Original Medicare has gaps — no prescription coverage, no dental or vision, and no out-of-pocket maximum. That’s why most people add extra coverage.

Step 2: Decide Between Medicare Advantage and Medigap

You have two main pathways:

1️⃣ Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D

More flexibility to see any Medicare provider
More predictable costs, fewer out-of-pocket expenses
Need to buy a separate Part D drug plan

2️⃣ Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Combines hospital, medical, and often drug coverage into one plan
May include extras like dental, vision, hearing, fitness
Often has lower monthly premiums but copays/coinsurance as you go

Step 3: Consider Your Personal Needs

Ask yourself:

✅ Do I want to keep my current doctors and specialists?

✅ Do I travel often or live part of the year elsewhere?

✅ What prescriptions do I take, and how are they covered under each plan?

✅ Do I want lower premiums or more predictable costs?

✅ How important are extras like dental, vision, and hearing?

Step 4: Compare Plans and Costs

Don’t just look at monthly premiums — look at:

Deductibles
Copays and coinsurance
Maximum out-of-pocket limits
Drug formularies (for Part D and Medicare Advantage)

A slightly higher premium might save you money overall if it reduces your out-of-pocket costs when you use healthcare services.

Step 5: Get Expert Help

We help people like you every day walk through these decisions. We’ll listen to what’s most important to you, explain your options clearly, and help you compare the details — so you can feel confident you’re making the right choice.