Original Medicare consists of Part A hospital insurance and Part B medical insurance. Medicare Advantage plans are structured the same way, but both forms of insurance are packaged in a single plan. You can also get Part D prescription drug coverage through most Medicare Advantage plans. If you are enrolled in an Advantage plan, you can’t purchase a Part D plan, so this may be required if you want affordable prescription drug coverage.
Original Medicare also only has a single plan type, while Advantage plans are available as HMO, PPO, SNP, MSA, and PFFS. Each plan type offers different advantages, so speak with an insurance professional if you want to learn which one will be best for you. An insurance agent can help you compare Medicare Advantage plans and identify whether you should switch from Original Medicare.