Quick answer

There are four main types of Medicare coverage to compare: Medicare Advantage (Part C), an all-in-one private plan with low premiums and a provider network; Medicare Supplement (Medigap), which pairs with Original Medicare to cover most out-of-pocket gaps; Part D prescription drug plans (covered drug costs are capped at $2,100 out-of-pocket in 2026); and Special Needs Plans (SNPs) for people with certain chronic conditions or dual Medicare/Medicaid eligibility. The best fit depends on your doctors, prescriptions, and budget — and comparing them with an independent broker is free.

Part C

Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They bundle Part A, Part B, and usually Part D into a single plan — and often include extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs.

Many Los Angeles-area residents choose Medicare Advantage for the convenience of one plan, predictable costs, and added benefits that Original Medicare doesn't cover.

Who it's best for: People who want an all-in-one plan, are comfortable using a network of providers, and want extra benefits beyond basic Medicare.

Compare Advantage Plans

Key Features

✅ Combines Part A, B, and usually Part D
✅ Many plans with $0 monthly premium
✅ Often includes dental, vision & hearing
✅ Out-of-pocket maximum protects you from large bills
✅ Fitness benefits (SilverSneakers, etc.)
⚠️ Must use the plan's network of doctors
⚠️ May require referrals for specialist visits

Standardized Plans

✅ Use any doctor who accepts Medicare — no network
✅ No referrals needed for specialists
✅ Covers Medicare deductibles and copays
✅ Predictable monthly costs, minimal surprises
✅ Plan G is the most comprehensive option
⚠️ Monthly premiums are higher than Advantage
⚠️ Does not include drug coverage — need a separate Part D

Supplement

Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

Medigap plans fill in the "gaps" that Original Medicare leaves — deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance that would otherwise come out of your pocket.

With a Medigap plan, you keep Original Medicare and your Medigap plan pays after Medicare pays its share. The result is predictable, low out-of-pocket costs and the freedom to see any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare.

Who it's best for: People who see specialists regularly, travel frequently, or want the peace of mind of knowing exactly what they'll pay each month.

Compare Medigap Plans

Prescription Coverage

Part D — Prescription Drug Plans

Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs and is available as a standalone plan (if you're on Original Medicare or Medigap) or built into a Medicare Advantage plan.

Part D plans vary significantly in what drugs they cover and what they charge. The plan that's cheapest at first glance may not be cheapest once you factor in your specific medications. I use your exact prescription list to find the plan with the lowest total annual cost.

Important for 2026: The Medicare prescription drug out-of-pocket cap is $2,100 per year in 2026 (up from $2,000 in 2025) — a major improvement for people on expensive medications.

Find the Right Part D Plan

What to Know

✅ Covers brand-name and generic prescriptions
✅ $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap in 2026
✅ Medicare Extra Help available for lower incomes
✅ Plans can be switched during Annual Enrollment (Oct 15 – Dec 7)
⚠️ Late enrollment penalty if you don't sign up on time
⚠️ Not all drugs are covered by all plans — formulary matters

Specialized Coverage

Special Needs Plans (SNPs)

Special Needs Plans are a type of Medicare Advantage plan designed for people with specific chronic conditions (C-SNP), limited income (D-SNP), or those in certain care facilities (I-SNP).

If you have conditions like diabetes, heart failure, COPD, or chronic kidney disease — or if you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid (dual eligible) — a Special Needs Plan could give you better, more tailored coverage than a standard Medicare Advantage plan.

Find Out If You Qualify

Timing Matters

Medicare Enrollment Periods

Missing an enrollment window can mean penalties or gaps in coverage. Here's what you need to know.

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Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) 7-month window starting 3 months before your 65th birthday. The best time to enroll without penalties.

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Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) October 15 – December 7 every year. Switch, drop, or add plans — changes take effect January 1.

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Special Enrollment Period (SEP) Triggered by qualifying life events — losing employer coverage, moving, or changes in eligibility.

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Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (OEP) January 1 – March 31. If you're on a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch once during this period.

Make Sure You Don't Miss a Deadline

Sources & official references

Medicare.gov — official U.S. Medicare program
CMS.gov — Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Social Security (SSA.gov) — Medicare enrollment & premiums
California HICAP — free, unbiased Medicare counseling (California's SHIP)
California Department of Insurance

Last reviewed: June 2026. Medicare figures reflect 2026 and can change annually — confirm current amounts at Medicare.gov. Educational information only, not individualized advice.

Medicare Plans in Los Angeles