The short answer is no. If you like Original Medicare, you don’t have to make any changes. However, it would be wise to talk to an independent agent who is an expert in Medicare to ensure that original Medicare is the most appropriate choice for your specific situation. At a minimum, you should also consider enrolling in a Part D Prescription Drug plan since prescription drugs are not covered under Original Medicare. You could also be assessed a penalty if you don’t enroll in a Part D plan when initially eligible for Medicare.

There are several factors that may impact which Medicare plan is right for you. They include things like your health, financial situation, travel plans, and more. Enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan can be very affordable, and often Medicare Advantage plans include significant additional benefits not covered under Original Medicare. These include things like transportation to doctors’ visits, dental, vision, hearing, over the counter drug benefits, and more. Medicare Supplements (Medigap) plans can also reduce the amount of out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare.