Medicare Advantage Plans, also known as Medicare Part C, offer a robust alternative to original Medicare (Part A and Part B) by consolidating hospital and medical insurance into one comprehensive plan. These plans are provided by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.

Key Features:

• Integrates Parts A (hospital insurance) and B (medical insurance) coverage.
• Often includes additional benefits like prescription drug coverage (Part D), vision, dental, and hearing.
• Service delivery rules (such as network requirements) vary by plan and provider.

Medicare Supplement Plans, also known as "Medigap", are tailored by private insurance companies to complement original Medicare coverage. These plans fill in the gaps left by Medicare, covering copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.

Key Features:

• Standardized benefits across plans labeled A through N.
• Provides flexibility to choose any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare.
• Premiums vary depending on the plan and insurance company.

Medicare Part D plans, also known as prescription drug plans, are standalone offerings by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans help manage the costs of prescription medications.

Key Features:

• Available as a standalone plan for those with original Medicare.
• Often included in Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) for comprehensive coverage.
• Varies by plan in terms of covered medications and costs.