Senior Health Plans
Plain-language guide
Senior health plans, without the marketing pressure.
A short overview of the senior coverage paths people actually choose between, with the trade-offs that matter.
The five paths people choose between
When people say "senior plans," they usually mean one of these:
- Original Medicare — federal Part A and Part B.
- Medicare Advantage — private plans that replace Original Medicare ("Part C").
- Medicare Supplement (Medigap) — pays your share of Original Medicare cost.
- Retiree or employer plans — coverage that continues from work.
- Standalone dental, vision, or hearing — separate policies for the gaps.
Five questions to ask before deciding
- What doctors do I want to keep?
- What prescriptions do I take today, and what do they cost?
- Do I travel, or need coverage outside my home state?
- How much can I afford in premium versus out-of-pocket?
- Do I need dental, vision, or hearing?