Compare Medicare Plans
Understand your Medicare options and find the perfect coverage for your needs and budget
Medicare can be confusing with multiple plan types and options. This comprehensive comparison guide helps you understand the differences between Original Medicare, Medicare Supplement plans, Medicare Advantage plans, and prescription drug coverage so you can make the best choice for your health and budget.
Which Medicare Path Is Right for You?
Your Medicare decision depends on your priorities - here's how to think about your options
Want Maximum Freedom?
Choose Original Medicare + Supplement if you want to see any doctor nationwide, no referrals, and predictable costs
Want Lower Costs?
Consider Medicare Advantage if you prefer lower premiums and don't mind using a local network of doctors
Want Extra Benefits?
Medicare Advantage often includes dental, vision, hearing aids, and wellness programs not covered by Original Medicare
Have Health Issues?
Original Medicare + Supplement may be better if you need frequent specialist care or have ongoing health conditions
Medicare Plan Comparison Chart
Side-by-Side Medicare Plan Comparison
Compare the key features of each Medicare option to understand what works best for you
Original Medicare + Supplement
- See any Medicare doctor nationwide
- No referrals needed for specialists
- Predictable, low out-of-pocket costs
- Perfect for frequent travelers
- Higher monthly premiums
- Need separate Part D plan
- No extra benefits (dental, vision)
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
- Lower monthly premiums ($0-$100)
- Includes prescription drug coverage
- Extra benefits: dental, vision, hearing
- Annual out-of-pocket limit
- Limited to plan's doctor network
- May need referrals for specialists
- Limited coverage outside service area
Original Medicare Only
- Lowest monthly premium cost
- See any Medicare doctor
- No referrals for specialists
- Nationwide coverage
- High out-of-pocket costs possible
- No prescription drug coverage
- No coverage limits (potentially unlimited costs)
Real Southwest Florida Cost Examples
Compare total annual costs for different Medicare scenarios in our area
Healthy Senior
Part B: $1,845
Supplement G: $2,400
Part D: $600
Healthy Senior
Part B: $1,845
MA Premium: $480
Estimated Copays: $800
Senior with Health Issues
Part B: $1,845
Supplement G: $2,400
Part D: $600
Senior with Health Issues
Part B: $1,845
MA Premium: $480
Higher Copays: $3,500
Medicare Plan Options Available in Southwest Florida
Original Medicare + Medigap
Traditional Medicare with supplemental insurance for gap coverage
- Parts A, B + Supplement Plan
- Standardized plans (A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, N)
- Separate Part D for prescriptions
- Best for frequent healthcare users
Medicare Advantage Plans
All-in-one plans that replace Original Medicare with extra benefits
- HMO, PPO, and Special Needs Plans
- Includes prescription drug coverage
- Extra benefits: dental, vision, hearing
- Best for budget-conscious seniors
Part D Prescription Plans
Standalone prescription drug coverage for Original Medicare
- Required if you have Original Medicare
- Different formularies and pharmacy networks
- Late enrollment penalties apply
- Choose based on your medications
Special Considerations for Southwest Florida Medicare Recipients
Snowbird Lifestyle
If you split time between Florida and another state, Original Medicare + Supplement offers the best nationwide coverage. Medicare Advantage plans may have limited coverage outside their service areas.
Local Healthcare Networks
Southwest Florida has excellent Medicare Advantage networks including Lee Health, NCH Healthcare, and Sarasota Memorial. These local systems offer comprehensive MA plan options.
Hurricane Preparedness
During hurricane season, you may need care outside your normal area. Original Medicare provides more flexibility for emergency care during evacuations and temporary relocations.
No State Income Tax
Florida's lack of state income tax means you keep more of your retirement income, potentially making higher-premium Supplement plans more affordable than in other states.
Why Choose Southwest FL Medicare to Help Compare Plans?
Complete Plan Analysis
We analyze every Medicare option available in Southwest Florida, comparing costs, benefits, and networks to find your perfect match.
Local Market Expertise
18+ years helping Southwest Florida residents navigate Medicare. We know which doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies work best with each plan type.
Objective Recommendations
We're not tied to one insurance company. Our recommendations are based on what's truly best for your health, budget, and lifestyle needs.
Annual Review Service
Medicare plans change every year. We provide annual reviews to ensure your coverage still meets your needs and budget during Open Enrollment.
No-Pressure Education
We believe in educating first, selling second. Take your time to understand your options - we're here to answer questions, not pressure you into decisions.
Ongoing Support
Questions about claims, finding doctors, or plan changes? We provide ongoing support throughout the year, not just during enrollment periods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare Plan Choices
Can I switch between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare?
Yes, during Annual Open Enrollment (October 15 - December 7) you can switch between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare. You can also use the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 - March 31) to make changes.
What happens if I move between Florida and another state?
Original Medicare + Supplement travels anywhere. Medicare Advantage plans are location-specific, so frequent moves between states may trigger Special Enrollment Periods to change plans or switch to Original Medicare.
Which option is better for someone with multiple health conditions?
Original Medicare + Supplement typically works better for people with multiple conditions because of unlimited provider choice, no referrals needed, and predictable costs. Medicare Advantage can work if your doctors are in-network.
How do I know which plan covers my medications?
Every plan has a formulary (list of covered drugs). We can check your specific medications against each plan's formulary and calculate your estimated annual drug costs to find the most cost-effective option.
Get Your Personalized Medicare Plan Comparison
Stop being overwhelmed by Medicare choices. Our experts will analyze your specific needs, health conditions, budget, and lifestyle to recommend the perfect Medicare plan combination for you. Get your free, no-obligation comparison today.
Get My Free Medicare Analysis