10/06/2026
Choosing your Medicare coverage is only part of the decision. Choosing your doctors and other providers matters, too.
Did you know that the rules for seeing doctors, specialists, and hospitals can vary depending on how you receive your Medicare benefits?
💚 With Original Medicare, you can generally see any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare.
💙 With Medicare Advantage, costs are often lowest when using providers in the plan's network, and some plans have referral or network requirements.
Before enrolling in a plan, consider questions like:
• Do I want flexibility to see providers in different locations?
• Are my preferred doctors and hospitals in the plan's network?
• Will I need referrals to see specialists?
• What are my potential out-of-pocket costs if I go outside the network?
Every person's health needs and priorities are different, so it's important to compare your options carefully. Contact your local SHIP for unbiased Medicare counseling, or call 1-800-MEDICARE and visit Medicare.gov to compare plans and check provider participation.
