Will I be able to keep my current doctors with Medicare?
The short answer
It depends on which Medicare path you choose. Original Medicare gives you the most flexibility with providers nationwide. Medicare Advantage plans use networks, so keeping your current doctors depends on whether they participate in the plan you pick.
The full explanation
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) works with almost any doctor, specialist, or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare. Most providers do, though it is always worth confirming a specific doctor accepts Medicare assignment before your first visit.Medicare Advantage is different. These are plans run by private insurance companies, and they use networks. Some are HMOs, which generally require you to use in-network providers and get referrals to see specialists. Others are PPOs, which give you more flexibility but usually cost more when you go out of network. If your doctor is not in a plan's network, you may pay significantly more or not be covered at all.Before you enroll in any Medicare Advantage plan, look up your doctors on that plan's provider directory. Do not rely on a general list of doctors who accept Medicare. Acceptance of Medicare and participation in a specific Advantage plan are two different things. Provider networks also change from year to year, so a doctor who was in-network when you enrolled might not be in-network the following January.If keeping a specific doctor is your top priority, Original Medicare paired with a Medicare Supplement plan (also called Medigap) tends to offer the most flexibility. Plan details vary, and you should verify current network information directly with the carrier before enrolling.
Related Medicare Resources
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In Utah, if your care is centered at Intermountain Health, SelectHealth Medicare Advantage plans are built around that system and may be a natural fit. University of Utah Health has its own network relationships, so verify your specific providers are included before choosing a plan. Rural Utahns should be especially careful with HMO-style plans, as network options in counties like Kane or Daggett can be quite limited.
What this means for you
For you, this means before you commit to any plan, pull up the provider directory and search for every doctor you see regularly, not just your primary care physician.
Related Questions
Do all doctors accept Medicare?
How do I check whether my doctor accepts Medicare and is in-network?
What is the difference between a doctor accepting Medicare and being in-network for a plan?
Do Medicare Advantage plans limit which doctors I can see?
Which Medicare option gives me the most freedom to choose my own doctors?
