Selecting a Medicare Plan

You can choose between two Medicare plans, according to Medicare.gov: the original Medicare plan, which covers some health care needs and drugs, and Medicare Advantage plans, which work with other health plans such as health maintenance organizations to cover additional needs. If you need prescription drug coverage, consider a Medicare prescription drug plan.

Instructions

• 1

  Set an appointment for a consultation with your doctor. Inquire about your health and prescription drug needs. Seek advice on joining either Medicare plan and the Medicare prescription drug plan based on your requirements.

• 2

  Meet with your current insurance provider and review your current policy.

• 3

  Create a health care needs list, suggests the AGIS site. Based on information from your doctor and insurance provider, review your current health care needs, coverage options and level of flexibility you require. Determine if original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan would be a better fit for you, and if you need the prescription drug plan.

• 4

  Consider cost. There is a wide range of options in Medicare plans that affect your costs, benefits and accessibility. The original Medicare plan will not cover all your expenses, so if you choose it you may need to buy a Medigap plan, which will cost more. If you choose an Advantage plan, you don't need a Medigap plan, but you'll lose some flexibility, according to the Medicare site. If you have a lot of prescription drug costs, you might save money with a prescription drug plan.