Compare Plan Types
Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage — understand the trade-offs before you choose.
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Understanding Medicare
Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older, and for certain younger people with disabilities. Independent broker William Gray explains how it works — and how to choose the right coverage for your situation.
The Four Parts of Medicare
Medicare is divided into four parts. Understanding what each part covers — and what it costs — is the foundation of every coverage decision.
A
Part A
Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health services. Most people pay no premium for Part A if they or their spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
B
Part B
Medical Insurance
Covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and some home health services. Part B has a monthly premium (2025: $185/month for most people) and an annual deductible.
C
Part C
Medicare Advantage
An alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurers. Bundles Part A, Part B, and usually Part D into one plan. Often includes dental, vision, and hearing. Network-based with an annual out-of-pocket maximum.
D
Part D
Prescription Drug Coverage
Standalone prescription drug plans added to Original Medicare or a Supplement plan. Compare formularies based on your specific medications. Avoid the late enrollment penalty by enrolling when first eligible.
Where to Go Next
Whether you're turning 65, losing employer coverage, or reviewing your current plan, these resources will help you make a confident decision.
Medicare Learning Center
30 plain-language guides on enrollment, costs, coverage decisions, and life events.
Browse all guidesFrequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common Medicare questions — enrollment windows, costs, and coverage gaps.
Read the FAQEnrollment Periods
Initial Enrollment, Annual Enrollment, Special Enrollment — know your windows to avoid penalties.
Learn about enrollmentOriginal Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
The most important decision most Medicare beneficiaries face is whether to stay with Original Medicare (Parts A + B, often paired with a Supplement and Part D) or switch to Medicare Advantage (Part C). Both paths have real trade-offs.
Original Medicare + Supplement
- ✓ Any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare — nationwide
- ✓ Predictable costs — Supplement covers most out-of-pocket
- ✓ No referrals, no network restrictions
- – Higher monthly premium (Part B + Supplement + Part D)
- – Dental, vision, hearing not included (add separately)
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
- ✓ Often $0 monthly premium beyond Part B
- ✓ May include dental, vision, hearing, and drug coverage
- ✓ Annual out-of-pocket maximum limits exposure
- – Network restrictions — must use in-network providers
- – Prior authorization may be required for some services
The right choice depends on your health, your doctors, your medications, and your budget. William Gray helps you compare options across all available carriers — at no cost to you. Compare plan types in detail →
Your Independent Medicare Broker
William Gray
Founder of The Medicare Dude · Licensed Since 1998 · Independent Medicare Broker
Independent — No Carrier BiasNearly 30 Years Experienceus U.S. Air Force Veteran
Verified Google Review
"Very Knowledgable and personable! William made a seemingly difficult transition easy and seamless. I appreciated his unbiased opinion and personalized what was best for me. He took great care in listening to my concerns. I never felt rushed and felt he took a personal interest in assisting me to make the best choice. Not one of those "Big box" sales as seen on TV. Highly recommend William."
Sharon H
Medicare client
5 ★ · 83 reviews
Get Free, Independent Medicare Guidance
William Gray is an independent broker licensed in 14 states. He works for you — not the insurance companies. No pressure, no obligation.
Licensed in FL, GA, ID, IN, KS, KY, MI, NC, OH, PA, TX, VA · Independent · No cost to you