Medicare Coverage in Wichita Falls, Texas, Made Simple

Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)

A Medicare Advantage plan takes the place of Original Medicare by folding your coverage into one plan sold by a private carrier approved by Medicare. Most of these plans bundle together:

• Hospital and medical coverage
• Prescription drug coverage
• Provider networks
• Copays and out-of-pocket limits

Some plans throw in dental, vision or hearing benefits, though what's actually covered differs by carrier and plan.

Advantage plans tend to draw seniors who want a lower monthly premium, bundled extras, predictable copays and coordinated care through a network. Provider access is the big question here. Networks shift year to year, so it pays to confirm your doctors at United Regional Health Care System or Kell West Regional Hospital still accept a plan before you sign up.

Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)

A Medicare Supplement policy rides alongside Original Medicare. It picks up costs Medicare leaves behind, such as deductibles and coinsurance. Medigap plans generally give you nationwide provider access, predictable medical bills, no referrals and no network to worry about.

Prescription drugs are not part of Medigap. You'll pair it with a separate Part D plan for medications.

Medigap often suits people who travel often, want to see any doctor who accepts Medicare, dislike surprise medical bills, or lean on healthcare services regularly, including retirees who split time between Wichita Falls and family near Lawton, Oklahoma.