Medicare Supplements Vs. Medicare Advantage
When it comes to covering what Original Medicare doesn’t, you’ve got two main options—Medigap and Medicare Advantage. One works with Medicare, the other replaces it. They offer very different networks, costs, and levels of control over your care. Understanding the difference is key to making the right choice for your health and budget.
Medicare Supplements
Works with Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
Nationwide coverage – see any doctor that accepts Medicare
No networks or referrals required
No prior authorization for covered services
Helps cover deductibles, copays, and coinsurance
Predictable out-of-pocket costs
Requires separate Part D plan for prescriptions
Monthly premium may be higher, but fewer surprises
Enroll any time, but best during Medigap Open Enrollment
Medicare Advantage
Replaces Original Medicare with private plan
Coverage is ZIP code-based with restricted networks
Often requires referrals and prior authorizations
May include extras like dental, vision, hearing, and gym
Annual out-of-pocket limit, but costs can be unpredictable
Usually includes Part D drug coverage
Lower or $0 premiums—but more cost-sharing as you go
Must enroll or switch during specific enrollment periods
Plans and coverage vary greatly by location
Making the Right Choice for You
Deciding between a Medicare Supplement plan and a Medicare Advantage plan is a big step—and it’s one that deserves careful thought. Each option has unique strengths and trade-offs. Medicare Supplement plans offer stability, freedom to see any Medicare provider nationwide, and more predictable out-of-pocket costs, making them a strong choice for those who want flexibility and long-term peace of mind. On the other hand, Medicare Advantage plans often offer extra benefits and lower upfront costs, but come with network restrictions, prior authorizations, and the need to carefully manage care within plan guidelines.
Learn More About Medicare Supplements
Learn More About Medicare Advantage
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© 2025 My Medicare Now. All rights reserved. As a national Medicare brokerage, we work with multiple carriers to provide comprehensive plan options. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options. This is not a complete listing of plans available in your service area. For a complete listing please contact 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week or consult www.medicare.gov.