Compare Medicare vs Medicare Advantage
| Features | Original Medicare | Medicare Advantage (Part C) |
|---|---|---|
| Includes | Part A (Hospitals) + Part B (Medical/Drs) Part B cost $185 standard rate for 2025 |
Must cover everything original Medicare does, often includes Part D |
| Choice of Doctors | Any Doctor/Hospital that accepts Medicare | Access to In-Network Providers (HMO/PPO) |
| Are Referrals Needed? | No referral are needed to see a Specialist | Often required in HMOs |
| Costs | 20% Coinsurance after deductibles; you can buy Supplemental Insurance (medigap) for help | Varies by plan (copays, premiums); annual out-of-pocket Maximum |
| Drug Coverage (Part D) | Not Included - Must buy a separate Part D Plan | Most of the time Part D is included |
| Extra Benefits (Vision, Dental, Hearing Aids, Transportation, Gym Membership, OTC, and More...) | Not Included in Original Medicare | Most of the medicare advantage health plans include extra benefits. |
| Out-of-Pocket Limit | No limit unless you have Medigap | Yes - Capped annually (Varies by plan) |