What kind of coverage do I get with Medicare Parts C and D and Medigap?

Lesson 2

Medicare part C is called "Medicare Advantage" and gives you additional coverage. Part D gives you prescription drug coverage.

Once you have Parts A and B, you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan
When Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription drug coverage, they're called MAPD plans
MAPD plans are usually the lowest cost way to get Parts A, B and D together
You'll continue to pay your Part B premium to the federal government
Usually, you'll pay an additional monthly premium to your private insurance company, too
Medicare Advantage plans may also include extras like dental and vision coverage
You won't be denied due to a pre-existing condition

You'll pay a monthly premium for a Part D plan unless it's included in your Medicare Advantage plan
Each insurance company decides on a list of what drugs its Part D plan will cover (a "formulary")
The federal government decides on some drugs Medicare will never pay for

These plans cover costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover
There are 10 standard Medigap plans (A through N), but not all companies offer all of them
Plan A covers the least, Plan F covers the most if you are eligible before 1/1/20, and Plan G covers the most if you are eligible after 1/1/20
You'll pay a monthly premium for a Medigap plan
Medigap plans don't cover prescriptions
You can't enroll in a Medigap plan if you have a Medicare Advantage plan
During your guaranteed issue period you won't be denied due to a pre-existing condition

Here are some helpful articles that can help you pick the Medicare coverage that is right for you.