Official data
CMS and Medicare.gov plan, benefit, county, and plan-year sources.
Local context
Plan availability is organized by ZIP code, county, and state.
User inputs
ZIP, prescriptions, providers, and preferences are used only when users choose to enter them.
Primary data sources
- CMS and Medicare.gov plan, benefit, county, and plan-year data.
- Publicly available Medicare plan information and permitted source files.
- User-entered ZIP code, county, prescriptions, provider preferences, and plan preferences when a user chooses to enter them.
How comparisons are displayed
Plan availability is localized because Medicare Advantage and Part D options vary by county and ZIP code. Medicare Choose may display premiums, deductibles, out-of-pocket limits, plan categories, supplemental benefits, Star Ratings, and estimated drug-cost context when enough data is available.
Important limitations
- Plan details can change and may vary by county, pharmacy, provider, drug dosage, or enrollment status.
- Not every plan, benefit, network detail, pharmacy price, or enrollment rule may be displayed.
- Before enrolling or switching, users should confirm details with Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, the plan sponsor, providers, pharmacies, SHIP, or a licensed insurance agent.
How we handle recommendations
Medicare Choose can help users compare options and understand tradeoffs, but it does not make final enrollment decisions. The best plan depends on the user’s doctors, prescriptions, budget, travel habits, benefits, risk tolerance, and personal circumstances.
Learn more about our editorial policy and terms of service.