Medicare Advantage vs. Supplement: Key Differences Explained

Female doctor writing prescription in medical office

Medicare Advantage vs. Supplement: Key Differences Explained

When you’re new to Medicare, one of the first big decisions you’ll face is whether to choose a Medicare Advantage plan or add a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy to your Original Medicare coverage. Both options are designed to fill in gaps—but they work very differently.

Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) are all-in-one solutions offered by private insurers. They typically include Part A, Part B, and often Part D (prescription drug) coverage, along with added perks like dental, vision, and fitness benefits. These plans tend to have lower premiums but require you to use a provider network and may involve more out-of-pocket expenses for services.

Medicare Supplement plans, on the other hand, work alongside Original Medicare and help pay for deductibles, coinsurance, and other out-of-pocket costs. They offer more flexibility—you can see any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare—but come with higher monthly premiums and typically don’t include extras like dental or drug coverage.

In this article, we dive deep into the pros and cons of each path, who they’re best for, and what to consider when deciding between the two. With expert insight, you’ll be better equipped to choose a plan that aligns with your lifestyle, travel needs, and budget.

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