Can I Go Back to Original Medicare After Medicare Advantage?

Understanding Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans

Making the decision between Original Medicare and a Medicare Advantage Plan can feel overwhelming. But knowing your options can help you feel confident about your choice. Original Medicare includes Part A and Part B, which cover hospital and medical services. Medicare Advantage Plans, offered by private insurance companies, often include additional benefits like prescription drug coverage.

Switch From Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare

If you're considering a switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare, it's important to understand the process. You can switch during specific enrollment periods:

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period: January 1 to March 31 each year.
Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 to December 7 each year.
Special Enrollment Period: If you qualify due to certain life events.

How to Switch Back to Original Medicare

To return to Original Medicare, you will need to drop your Medicare Advantage Plan. This can be done by contacting your current plan provider or by calling Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE. Once you drop the plan, you can automatically return to Original Medicare.

Joining a Medicare Health or Drug Plan

After dropping your Medicare Advantage Plan, you may want to consider joining a Medicare Health or Drug Plan. This could mean enrolling in a Part D plan for prescription drug coverage, or a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to help cover out-of-pocket costs.

Benefits and Coverage With Original Medicare

Original Medicare offers reliable coverage, but it's essential to understand what benefits and coverage you might miss from leaving a Medicare Advantage Plan:

Coverage: Original Medicare covers hospital stays and medical services.
Medicare Part: You will rely on Part A and Part B.
Premium: Continued payment of Part B premiums is necessary.

Find Plans and Get Medicare Services

Looking for the best plan for your needs? Use Medicare's Plan Finder tool to compare and find plans that suit your healthcare and budget needs. This tool helps you understand your options without drug coverage and compare the benefits.