Quick Answer
If you are new to Medicare or want to change your plans, finding the plan with the right health benefits for you is essential. When deciding which plan to enroll in, your first step should be to choose between Medigap plan vs. Medicare Advantage plans.
Coverage Comparison by Plan Type
| Plan Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare | Varies | Coverage depends on specific services |
| Medicare Advantage | Varies | Additional benefits may be available |
| Medigap | Supplements | Helps cover out-of-pocket costs |
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Overview
If you are new to Medicare or want to change your plans, finding the plan with the right health benefits for you is essential. When deciding which plan to enroll in, your first step should be to choose between Medigap plan vs. Medicare Advantage plans. Understanding which plan type best fits your needs is top priority when enrolling in coverage.
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What is the Difference between Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage?
While Medicare Supplement plans pay secondary to Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans become your primary source of coverage when you enroll.
Medicare pays a set amount to the carrier for the Medicare Advantage plan in which you enroll to take on your coverage needs for the calendar year.
Those [new to Medicare]() may notice a considerable amount of Medicare Advantage plan promotion through advertisements and little to no promotion of Medicare Supplement plans.
Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage Pros and Cons
There are several differences between Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage plans. A Medicare Advantage plan (Medicare Part C) is structured as an [all-in-one]() option with low monthly premiums.
Medicare Supplement plans offer additional coverage to Original Medicare with low to no out-of-pocket costs. The chart below reviews the pros and cons of Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans.
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Which is Better Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement (Medigap)?
Medicare does not offer a one-size-fits-all plan. So, the best policy for you is the policy that best meets your healthcare needs.
Medicare Supplement plans are the best option if you want complete reassurance and predictability with your healthcare but are comfortable paying higher premiums in exchange for lower out-of-pocket costs.
In contrast, Medicare Advantage plans are the best option if you hope to save on monthly premiums and receive additional benefits while accepting responsibility for additional out-of-pocket costs at the doctor’s office.
How do I Choose between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Plans?
Do you want predictable costs, the freedom to choose any doctor, avoid referrals, and peace of mind while traveling? If you answered yes, you are looking for a Medicare Supplement plan.
Are you comfortable with unpredictable copayments, strict doctor networks, and referrals in exchange for a lower monthly premium and additional benefits? If your answer is yes, Medicare Advantage could work for you.
The best part about working with agents is that no matter which option you choose, we make sure it is the best for you. Perhaps you are already thinking about making the [switch from a Medicare Advantage to a Medicare Supplement plan](), or the other way around.
✦ Frequently Asked Questions
David Haass
AuthorDavid Haass is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Elite Insurance Partners and MedicareFAQ.com.
Ashlee Zareczny
ReviewerAshlee Zareczny is the Director of Operations for MedicareFAQ. As a licensed Medicare agent in all 50 states, she is dedicated to educating those eligible for Medicare.