What's the highest rated Medicare plan?


Editorial team Published on

There is no single "best" Medicare plan because coverage depends entirely on your personal health needs, budget, and location.

Instead, Medicare is divided into two primary paths, and the best choice is whichever fits your lifestyle and medical requirements:

1. Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D

This path gives you maximum flexibility to see any doctor or specialist in the U.S. who accepts Medicare, without needing referrals.

  • Original Medicare (Parts A & B): Covers hospital and medical care, but leaves you with a 20% coinsurance and no yearly out-of-pocket maximum.
  • Medigap (Supplement): Standardized private plans (like Plan G or Plan N) that pay for that leftover 20% and other out-of-pocket costs.
  • Part D: A separate prescription drug plan.
  • Best for: People who want complete freedom of doctors, travel often within the U.S., or have chronic conditions requiring predictable, extensive coverage.

2. Medicare Advantage (Part C)

This path bundles your hospital, medical, and usually prescription drug coverage into one plan managed by a private insurance company.

  • Features: Often includes extra perks like dental, vision, hearing, and gym memberships, plus lower monthly premiums (many are $0).
  • Restrictions: Usually limits you to local provider networks (HMO or PPO) and may require prior authorization or referrals for specialists. Top-rated national providers include Humana and UnitedHealthcare.
  • Best for: People who want lower monthly premiums and extra benefits, and are comfortable using a specific local network of doctors.