There are many types of Medicare plans. The best way to find the right plan is to research them thoroughly and compare their costs. Medicare plans vary from state to state and even by city. In populated areas, you will have more choices than in rural areas. Each plan has a star rating based on its quality and cost. When looking for a plan, be sure to take your budget and priorities into account. Compare Medicare Advantage plans to find the best one for you.

How to Prepare For It

Part A of Medicare pays for most in-patient care, including hospitalization, skilled nursing facility care, and some home health care. However, most people must enroll in Part B during their initial enrollment period, or pay a late enrollment penalty of 10% for as long as they have Part B. Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, durable medical equipment, and preventive care, like mammograms. However, there are some disadvantages to both plans.

If you want to enroll in a plan that provides supplemental benefits, you may have to pay a premium for each one. Original Medicare covers preventive care and diagnostic tests, but a Part D plan will cover drugs to treat osteoporosis. The number of people who enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan has increased from last year to this year, but a traditional Medicare plan does not require prior authorization for preventive care or preventive services.