What it is: A private plan that replaces Original Medicare, combining Part A and Part B, often with extras like Part D, dental, vision, or hearing.

Costs: Low or $0 premiums (plus Part B). Pay copays/coinsurance, but there’s an annual out-of-pocket cap.

Networks: HMO or PPO style—must use in-network doctors and hospitals.

Extras: Often includes vision, dental, hearing, fitness memberships, and sometimes over-the-counter allowances.

Travel coverage: Limited to your plan’s service area (emergency coverage outside).

Flexibility: All-in-one plan, but you’re tied to networks and rules (referrals, prior authorization for some care).

Renewal: Benefits may change yearly. You can remain in a plan unless you disenroll at election times.

Costs: Higher monthly premium, but you may have little to no cost when you use services (depending on the plan letter, e.g., Plan G, Plan N).

Networks: No networks—accepted by any provider in the U.S. that takes Medicare.

Extras: Does not include prescription drug coverage (need a separate Part D plan). Doesn’t usually cover dental, vision, or hearing.

Travel coverage: Some plans include limited foreign travel emergency coverage.

Flexibility: Very predictable costs, freedom to see any Medicare doctor nationwide. Coverage doesn’t change year to year.

Renewal: Guaranteed renewable as long as you pay the premium. Benefits never change