There are many Medicare plan options available in Texas. For example, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans help fill in the gaps left by Original Medicare, and are often paired with a prescription drug (Part D) plan. Then, there’s Medicare Advantage (Part C), an “all-in-one” alternative to Parts A and B.
The good news is that you can find an option that fits really well with what you’re looking for. The bad news? It can be confusing to know which plan is right for you. And that’s why Oak Haven Insurance Agency is here — to help you compare and find the most suitable option for your health needs and budget.
What to Compare
Let’s say you’re comparing the coverage and costs of Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage.
Many people are surprised to learn that Medicare is not free. How much you’ll pay depends on your coverage choices, the benefits and services you use during the year, and if your plan has guidelines for in-network vs. out-of-network costs. Medicare Part B charges a monthly premium, and so do most Medicare Advantage, Part D, and Medigap plans. Sometimes people also have to pay a premium for Medicare Part A.
However, when you’re seeing how much a Medicare plan can cost, you want to focus on more than the premiums. A plan may seem like a good fit due to a low premium, but it could leave you with high out-of-pocket costs. For example, you may be responsible for a large deductible or have high copays for doctor visits or prescriptions. So, consider how you’ll use your Medicare benefits and think about ALL the costs of Medicare to see the bigger picture.
Why Compare?
It’s simple. When you compare various Medicare plans, it allows you to find the best rate for the coverage you’re seeking. This concept applies whether you’re signing up for the first time or looking to change your plan during AEP. Since Medicare costs and coverage can change from year to year, you’ll want to review your policies annually to make sure you’re not overpaying.
How to Compare
Use Medicare.gov
This website is a gold mine, providing numerous resources and the information you need to compare costs and plans. You can search for Medicare Advantage programs in your area, as well as Part D plans and/or Medigap insurance policies. The site has plenty of tools and multiple comparison methods to help you narrow down your choices.
Contact a Licensed Insurance Agent
As helpful as Medicare.gov is, some people will always prefer to talk to a real person — over the phone, in person, or via Zoom. This creates a more personalized experience that a website alone cannot match.
Using an independent broker like Oak Haven Insurance won’t cost you anything extra. We’re contracted with the very best insurance companies in Texas to give you an unbiased review of your different plan options. So when you’re ready, contact our agency to get started!
