Everyone has Part A and Part B. After that, there are two common paths. Neither is automatically better.
Starting point
Original Medicare
Keep A and B, then add what you need.
Often two or three insurance cards you will need to carry to office visits.
Medicare Advantage
One private plan that delivers Medicare (Part C).
Usually one insurance card you will need to carry to office visits.
Medigap does not work with Medicare Advantage. Confirm on Medicare.gov. Education only — not a plan pick.
Who Medicare is for
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, and for some people under 65 with qualifying disabilities or conditions such as ESRD or ALS. Eligibility and enrollment timing can depend on work history, current coverage, and how you become eligible.
Original Medicare
Original Medicare generally means Part A and Part B. It is accepted by most doctors and hospitals that take Medicare. It does not usually include routine dental, vision, or hearing, and it does not include outpatient prescription drug coverage unless you add Part D.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers approved to provide Medicare benefits. They often include extra benefits and usually include Part D, but they typically use networks, copays, and plan rules that can change each year.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Medigap plans work with Original Medicare to help pay certain deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. Standardized plan letters such as G and N describe the benefits. Medigap does not include Part D.
Where to go next
If you are approaching 65, start with the Turning 65 guide. If you are already enrolled, My Medicare Checkup can give you educational next-step information. Plan research should be done with a licensed agent using current plan data for your ZIP code.
Want the full story? Get my book. Medicare 2026: Choose the Right Plan & Avoid Costly Mistakes walks through how Medicare is built. It does not pick a plan.