Options for Medicare Beneficiaries besides Original Medicare

Medicare Options in Arizona

Medicare Part A which covers inpatient treatment for Medicare Beneficiaries and Medicare Part B which provides for outpatient services are both available to seniors and some people on disability under age 65 and is referred to as original Medicare. However, original Medicare by itself can leave the senior with significant out of pocket expense.



“As an Independent Insurance Broker in Arizona” states Ralph Dennis with Arizona Medicare Advisors, “I find a lot of confusion among seniors on what is available to them to help with medical costs. I trust this list will help to answer some of the questions that I hear” Arizona Medicare Advisors

Medicare Supplements also called a Medigap plan; a supplement pays for many of the costs that are not covered by Medicare. It is a separate plan and the company providing the coverage may ask health questions.

There are certain times and situations where a beneficiary is guaranteed issue. Also, there are several Medicare supplement plans available. Plan A, B, C, F, G, K, L, M and N. Not all companies carry all plans. I won’t go into the differences here but it is important to point out that all plan types are the same with every company. In other words Plan F with company A will be the same basic coverage as Plan F with company B. Arizona Medicare Advisors can answer your questions on plans in Arizona but consult a broker licensed in your state for particulars.


Part D Prescription Drug Plan provides coverage for prescription drugs and has copays for various tiers of drugs. In addition, it has a premium that is paid by the beneficiary. Low income seniors can apply for assistance with the premiums and copays through social security. There is an open enrollment and special enrollment periods. If a senior declines to enroll when eligible they will have a penalty if enrolled later. As with Medigap Arizona Medicare Advisors can answer your questions on plans in Arizona but consult a broker licensed in your state for particulars.

Medicare Advantage is also known as part C. These plans are available in Arizona and in many other areas as well. Once again, check with your local broker. With a Medicare Advantage plan the beneficiaries opts to receive their medical coverage from a private company. The company must provide coverage as good as or better than original Medicare. The plans provide coverage for Part A and for Part B and often incorporate Part D into the plan. Like the Part D plans, Medicare Advantage plans are guaranteed issue and have open enrollment. There is also a disenrollment period if the senior wants to return to original Medicare.