How to Compare Medicare With the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Option Plan

Medicare offers several different health insurance options; most people choose either original Medicare coverage or a managed care plan run by a private insurance company. Blue Cross and Blue Shield insurers offer Medicare Advantage plans, the private option, in most states.

Medicare Insurance Benefits

• Medicare is available for individuals 65 and older as well as certain people with disabilities. Original Medicare includes Part A, which covers hospital and skilled nursing facility care, and Part B, which covers physician and outpatient care. In addition to a monthly premium, patients pay co-payments and deductibles out-of-pocket. Many beneficiaries purchase a private Medigap plan, which helps cover these additional costs.

Medicare Advantage

• Most Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BC/BS) insurers offer a Medicare Advantage plan, and many plans include drug coverage. These plans may offer lower premiums as well as lower costs on preventive services and other medical care. BC/BS insurers are independent and may cover only one state or region. Consumers may check Medicare's online plan comparison tool to find the BC/BS plan in their area.

Medicare Premiums

• There is a monthly premium for Medicare Part B, $110.50 (2010) and $115.40 (2011) for individuals with annual incomes of $85,000 or less. Monthly premiums for BC/BS plans vary. Plans with limited coverage are usually $0 monthly but extra benefits and drug coverage may increase premiums dramatically.