Find a Licensed Medicare agent in California

In California, Medicare Advantage plans are the Medicare coverage option chosen by 51% of all enrollees. The remaining 49% choose Original Medicare. The even split reflects the variety and quality of the Medicare options available in the state.

Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans are both popular among California seniors and other Medicare-eligible people. Medicare Advantage plan availability can vary considerably from county to county and may change annually. Because the options can be hard to sift through, working with a California Medicare agent can help.

Original Medicare includes Part A and Part B coverage, but it generally doesn't include routine vision care, most dental care, and hearing services. It also doesn't cover long-term care. Medicare Advantage plans must cover the same services and equipment as Original Medicare. The California Medicare Advantage market includes many plan options that provide extra benefits beyond what Original Medicare covers. That said, Medicare Advantage plans also come with limitations, like provider networks and prior authorization requirements.

Original Medicare coverage can include services beyond standard outpatient and hospital care. It can cover short-term skilled nursing facility stays, home health care, and hospice care. It also covers certain mental health services.

Prescription coverage depends on which Medicare option you choose. Original Medicare enrollees need to enroll in a separate Part D prescription plan for prescription coverage. Meanwhile, Medicare Advantage plans typically include prescription coverage. Total out-of-pocket drug costs can vary significantly based on your coverage type.