Comparing Medicare Health Care Plans

When it comes to purchasing a health care plan, putting forth the time for research is key to making sure you get the most out of your money. Compare Medicare health plans, or Medicare Advantage plans, to ensure you are receiving the best health care in your price range.

Where to Look

• Go to the official Medicare website and use their plan finder tool. This tool allows you to input information about your health care status. The tool then supplies you with plans available in your area and gives you the option to compare plans side-by-side. Call each plan provider directly to have them answer any questions you may have.

What to Look For

• When comparing plans, make sure that plans are available in your area.Take into consideration the monthly premium, the deductible and co-payment costs.

What to Ask

• Ask about whether any particular services you know you'll need are covered. If they are covered, find out if they'll have any restrictions placed on them, such as prior authorization. Make sure your doctor is in the plan's network. Ask about the plan's drug coverage. Find out if they cover the drugs you need, if there any restrictions on the drugs, and if the plan offers any coverage during a coverage gap.