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How to Compare Medicare Plans
Choosing Medicare coverage comes down to one big decision and a few smaller ones. Use these steps to compare your options. There is no single plan that fits everyone; the right fit depends on your doctors, prescriptions, budget and how you like to get care.
Step 1: Choose your path
| Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D | Medicare Advantage (Part C) | |
|---|---|---|
| Doctors | Any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare | Usually a plan network (HMO, PPO and others) |
| Monthly premiums | Part B premium plus Medigap and Part D premiums | Part B premium plus the plan premium, which may be low or $0 depending on the plan and area |
| Costs when you get care | Depends on the Medigap plan; many plans cover most Part A and Part B cost sharing | Copays and coinsurance up to the plan's yearly out-of-pocket limit |
| Drug coverage | Separate Part D plan | Usually included |
| Extra benefits | Not included in Original Medicare | Many plans include some dental, vision or hearing benefits |
| Referrals | Not required in Original Medicare | Some plans require referrals to see specialists |
Step 2: List your doctors and prescriptions
Write down every doctor, specialist, hospital and pharmacy you use, plus every prescription with its dose. With Medicare Advantage, check that your providers are in the plan's network. With any drug coverage, check each plan's formulary (drug list) and tier.
Step 3: Compare total yearly costs, not just premiums
Add up premiums, deductibles, copays and coinsurance. In 2026 the standard Part B premium is $202.90 a month and the Part B deductible is $283. For drugs, no plan can have a deductible above $615, and covered Part D drug costs are capped at $2,100 for the year.
Step 4: Think about travel and future health needs
If you spend part of the year in another state, check how each plan handles out-of-area care. Also remember that outside your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, it may be harder to switch from Medicare Advantage to a Medigap policy in most states.
Step 5: Review every year
Plans can change every January. Review your coverage during Fall Open Enrollment, October 15 to December 7. See all Medicare enrollment periods.
Where to compare
You can compare plans yourself with the Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov, or ask a licensed agent to compare the plans we represent in your area at no cost to you. Learn more about Medicare Advantage, Medigap and Part D.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Medigap and Medicare Advantage?
Medigap is supplemental insurance that works alongside Original Medicare and helps pay your share of costs. Medicare Advantage is a private plan that replaces Original Medicare for your Part A and Part B benefits and usually includes drug coverage.
Does it cost money to talk to a Medicare agent?
No. Navigate Medicare does not charge you to compare plans. Agents are paid by the insurance companies they represent.
Can I switch Medicare plans later?
Yes, during set enrollment periods such as Fall Open Enrollment from October 15 to December 7. Switching to a Medigap policy later may require health questions in most states.
What should I check when comparing Medicare drug plans?
Check that your drugs are on the plan’s formulary, the tier and copay for each drug, the deductible, the premium and whether your pharmacy is in the network.
Talk with a licensed agent
Questions about your Medicare options? Call 1-844-438-6284 (TTY 711) or request a free, no-obligation quote. We do not offer every plan available in your area.
Sources for 2026 figures: CMS 2026 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles; Medicare.gov: Medicare costs; Medicare.gov: Part D costs. For information on all of your options, contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048).