Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: Which is Right for You?

I think deciding between Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage plans is the most crucial Medicare choice that influences how you get your insurance benefits while on Medicare.

• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are designed to cover costs not fully paid by Original Medicare, such as deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. These plans offer extensive provider choice and predictable out-of-pocket expenses, though typically at higher monthly premiums. I call it the pay to play route. One very important thing to note about this route is that, when you are new to Medicare Part B, you can get a Medicare Supplement (or Medigap plan) without any medical underwriting or health questions. This is extremely important for folks to know (especially those without chronic health conditions). This is one reason it's so important to work with someone like me when you are new to Medicare to make sure you are taking advantage of all your options and not missing any deadlines or details.

  
  

• Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans bundle Medicare Parts A and B and often Part D (drug coverage). They typically include additional services such as dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs (free gym memberships) at lower premium costs (often $0 premiums), although they generally require the use of specific provider networks and you will pay copays as you use the plan. I call this the "pay as you go route." The network and coverage of these plans have improved greatly over the years (most due to competition and CMS oversight). Though they will never be quite as good as a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy, the best analogy for these is imagine it as an excellent group employer policy you may have had through a previous job but with a super charger on it to make everything better and cost less for you.

  
  

Your best choice depends on many factors like your health status, budget, and preference for flexibility in choosing healthcare providers.

These are the exact things we go over together when you work with me. I help you navigate this very important decision with confidence and then provide you support with all things Medicare the rest of your life. It costs you nothing to work with me and doesn't affect your rates (the carriers pay me to help you find your best plan).

Feel free to reach out to me at 615-579-7592 or email joel@wellnessinsurance.info. With years of experience guiding Medicare beneficiaries like you, you can be confident we will find your best option together.