Medicare is the US public health program for seniors and disabled people. Did you know that there are over 40 million US Medicare beneficiaries?

Probably because it provides health coverage to so many people, there are a lot of options. People can choose how to get their health covered. Choices are good, but they can also make the right decision harder to make.

Before deciding on a health plan, understand the basic way that Medicare works. The original plan included Part A and Part B to cover medial and hospital care. But even these plans will leave you wil out of pocket costs. Why? They do not cover all medical services. And they do have copays and deductibles for covered services.

Supplemental plans were rolled out to cover some costs that the original plan did not pay for. Health insurance companies sell these plans, and the come in a variety of standard choices. Since they come from insurers, they also come with a premium. These are also called medigap plans or medsups.

More recently, beneficiaries could choose to be covered with a Medicare Advantage Plan (MA) instead of original Medicare. These plans also come from private companies, but are partially funded with tax dollars.

Do not confuse MA with supplements. Supplements add benefits to Part A and B. MA plans replace them. They are required to provide benefits as good as, or better than, the original Part A and B.

Prescription coverage comes from the newest type of plan. These are called Part D plans. They help cover the cost of prescription medication. They do come from health insurance companies, and they may require a premium, but are still funded with some tax dollars.

How can you decide which plan is right for you? Every beneficiary has unique needs. You must look at the choices, and then balance them against your own budget, lifestyle, and health needs.

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