How To: Shop Medicare Plans

Justin Hundley
Oct 20, 2025
3 min read

Shopping for Medicare plans can feel overwhelming — with so many options, terms, and deadlines, it’s easy to get confused. But finding the right Medicare coverage doesn’t have to be stressful.

Whether you’re new to Medicare or reviewing your options during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), knowing what to look for can help you make a confident, informed choice.

Let’s walk through how to shop Medicare plans — step-by-step.

Senior couple researching how to shop Medicare plans online. — Shopping Medicare plans doesn’t have to be stressful — we’ll help you every step of the way.

💡 Step 1: Understand the Different Types of Medicare Plans

Before you start shopping for Medicare plans, it’s important to know the basics. Medicare coverage typically falls into these main categories:

Original Medicare (Parts A & B): Covers hospital and medical services but leaves gaps for out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and coinsurance.
Medicare Advantage (Part C): Offered by private insurance companies, these plans combine Parts A and B, often with extra benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap): Helps pay for costs not covered by Original Medicare, such as copays and deductibles.
Medicare Part D: Prescription drug coverage that can be added to Original Medicare or included in some Medicare Advantage plans.

Understanding your options is the first step toward finding a plan that truly fits your needs.

📋 Step 2: Review Your Health and Budget Needs Before You Shop Medicare Plans

Before you compare plans, take time to review your current situation:

✅ Make a list of your doctors and preferred hospitals

✅ Note all prescriptions and pharmacies

✅ Think about your travel habits (some plans have regional networks)

✅ Determine how much you can afford for premiums, copays, and deductibles

By knowing your needs, you can shop Medicare plans more effectively and avoid paying for coverage you don’t need.

🔎 Step 3: Shop Medicare Plans and Compare Coverage Options

Now that you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to shop Medicare plans and compare your options side-by-side.

When comparing plans, pay close attention to:

Monthly premiums and deductibles
Prescription drug coverage (Part D)
Provider networks (Are your doctors covered?)
Out-of-pocket maximums
Extra benefits (dental, vision, hearing, and more)

There are many plans available — even within the same zip code — and not all of them are the same. Working with a licensed Medicare agent like one at Mountaineer Health and Life Insurance can help you shop smart and find the best value for your situation.

⏰ Step 4: Know When You Can Enroll

Timing is key when you’re ready to shop Medicare plans. Here are the major enrollment periods:

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): When you first qualify for Medicare, usually around your 65th birthday.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 – December 7, when you can review and change plans.
Open Enrollment Period (OEP): January 1 – March 31, when Medicare Advantage members can make one switch.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEP): Triggered by life events such as moving, losing coverage, or qualifying for financial assistance.