When it comes to choosing the right Medicare coverage, it helps to understand all of your options. Don’t worry, though – we’re here to guide you.
Medicare Coverage Options
Find the Best Medicare Plan for You
For more than 90 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies have been putting members first, which is why most doctors trust us for Medicare coverage. Explore what Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies have to offer by entering your ZIP Code to find Medicare coverage that fits your needs.
Medicare Coverage Options
Medicare is federal health insurance available for eligible individuals age 65 and over (or) individuals under 65 with certain disabilities or medical conditions, such as End-Stage Renal Disease. Medicare has different parts (referred to as Parts A, B, C and D) designed to address your health care needs.
Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
Medicare Part A and Part B (Original Medicare) are managed by the federal government. Some individuals who receive Social Security benefits are automatically enrolled in Original Medicare while others need to apply for it as they approach their 65th birthday. Original Medicare does not cover all medical expenses. Additional coverage through a Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) Medicare Advantage plan could help you better manage or limit your out-of-pocket expenses.
Additional Medicare coverage is available through private health insurance companies:
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Part C plans include both Medicare Part A (hospital stays) and Part B (doctor visits) benefits, plus additional services, such as wellness programs, hearing aids and vision services, generally with lower cost sharing and an annual out-of-pocket maximum.
Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
Part D is an option for those with Original Medicare. It covers prescription drug costs. Individuals enrolled in Medicare Advantage do not need to purchase a Part D plan.
Medigap (Medicare Supplement)
Medigap is an option for those with Original Medicare. It covers the out-of-pocket costs for health expenses not typically covered by Medicare Parts A and B (Original Medicare). Individuals enrolled in Medicare Advantage do not need to purchase a Medigap plan.
Option 1
Enroll in Original Medicare when you become eligible and select a BCBS Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan that offers all Medicare Part A and Part B benefits while generally including some additional services, such as wellness programs, hearing aids and vision services. Most plans, such as PPO and HMO plans, include prescription drug coverage.
Option 2
Enroll in Original Medicare when you become eligible and select a Part D and/or a Medigap plan.
- Purchase a Part D plan for help covering your prescription drug costs.
- Purchase a Medigap plan for help filling in specific cost-sharing gaps for Medicare Part A and Part B (Original Medicare).
Option 3
Enroll in Original Medicare when you become eligible, and consider purchasing a Medicare Advantage plan for coverage that offers all Medicare Part A and Part B benefits while generally including some additional services, such as wellness programs, hearing aids and vision services. Also, most plans (such as PPO and HMO plans) include prescription drug coverage.
How Do I Choose?
Everyone’s health needs, finances and lifestyles are different. You should consider these factors carefully when evaluating your Medicare coverage options.
One Plan
Do you want the convenience of medical and drug coverage under one plan? Consider a BCBS Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage.
Hearing and Vision Benefits
Do you need hearing and vision benefits? A BCBS Medicare Advantage plan may provide the level of benefits you need.
Freedom to Travel
Do you want the freedom to travel domestically and take your benefits with you? When considering other Medicare coverage options, keep in mind with BCBS Medigap plans you can receive services anywhere you go. Medicare Advantage plans from BCBS have broad coverage and will cover urgent and emergency services anywhere in the country.
Limited Coverage
Do you want limited medical coverage and prescription drug benefits? Medicare Parts A and B combined with a stand-alone Part D plan may meet your needs. However, you will be responsible for all Part A and B insurance deductibles and cost sharing amounts.
For help evaluating these and other relevant factors, reach out to your local Blue Cross and Blue Shield company for assistance with choosing the Medicare option available in your area that will best meet your needs and finances.
Find the Best Medicare Plan for You
For more than 90 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies have been putting members first, which is why most doctors trust us for Medicare coverage. Explore what Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies have to offer by entering your ZIP Code to find Medicare coverage that fits your needs.
Medicare overview information on this website was developed by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association to help consumers understand certain aspects about Medicare. Viewing this Medicare overview does not require you to enroll in any Blue Cross Blue Shield plans. Plans are insured and offered through separate Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies. Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans are offered by a Medicare Advantage organization and/or Part D plan sponsor with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in these plans depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. To find out about premiums and terms for these and other insurance options, how to apply for coverage, and for much more information, reach out to your local BCBS company. Each Blue Cross and Blue Shield company is responsible for the information it provides. For more information about Medicare, including a complete list of plans available in your area, please contact the Medicare program at 1.800.MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1.877.486.2048) or visit www.medicare.gov.
Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.