Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage vs Original Medicare 2026

▼ Bottom Line

Original Medicare covers hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) services but has no out-of-pocket maximum. Medicare Advantage bundles all benefits with an annual cap on costs. Most people who want predictable costs prefer Medicare Advantage.

The choice between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when you become Medicare-eligible. Both have meaningful advantages depending on your health needs, budget, and lifestyle.
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Side-by-Side Comparison

Who Benefits Most from Medicare Advantage?

Who Benefits Most from Original Medicare?

See also: Medicare Advantage vs MedigapCosts Explained