Know the parts before comparing the plans.

Part A helps cover hospital and certain other facility or home-care services. Part B helps cover medical services such as doctor visits, outpatient care, equipment and preventive care. Coverage conditions still apply.

Part D is Medicare prescription coverage. It can be obtained through a separate drug plan with Original Medicare or through a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage.

Original Medicare includes Parts A and B. Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, delivers Medicare benefits through a Medicare-approved private plan. Most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D.

Compare provider access, referrals or approval rules, premiums and service costs. An extra benefit does not answer whether the whole arrangement fits your care.

Medigap is supplemental insurance used with Original Medicare. It is not a policy for paying Medicare Advantage copayments. Buying protections and timing need their own review.

Before leaving an existing supplement, confirm your rights to obtain one later. A Medicare plan-change opportunity does not automatically establish a right to buy Medigap.

VA health care, TRICARE For Life and CHAMPVA are different programs. Do not assume military service gives every household member the same benefits.

Choose the relevant program guide, list the care and pharmacy routes you use, and check the enrollment dates that apply to you. The private worksheet helps organize those questions without collecting identifying information.