Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement: What’s the Difference?

If you're approaching age 65 or already enrolled in Medicare, you've probably heard about

Medicare Advantage

and

Medicare Supplement

plans. Both offer ways to help cover the costs that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) doesn’t pay for—but they work very differently.

Let’s break it down so you can decide which path may be right for you.

The Basics

Original Medicare (Parts A & B)

This is the federal program that covers hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) services. But it doesn’t cover everything—there are deductibles, copays, and no cap on out-of-pocket costs. That’s where Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans come in.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Medicare Advantage plans are offered by

private insurance companies

approved by Medicare. These plans

replace

Original Medicare and often include extra benefits.

Pros:

All-in-one coverage: Combines Parts A and B, and usually includes Part D (prescription drug coverage).Extras: Many plans offer vision, dental, hearing, gym memberships, and other perks.Low or $0 premiums: Some plans come with very low monthly premiums (though you still pay your Part B premium).Out-of-pocket max: There’s a yearly limit on what you’ll pay.

Cons:

Networks: You usually need to stay in-network (especially with HMO plans) or get referrals for specialists.Copays and coinsurance: You may pay as you go for services, which can add up.Plan restrictions: Coverage and costs can change every year.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

Medigap plans are also offered by

private insurance companies

, but they work

with

Original Medicare—not in place of it.

Pros:

Freedom of choice: See any doctor or specialist in the U.S. who accepts Medicare—no referrals or networks.Predictable costs: Helps pay for deductibles, copays, and coinsurance, so your costs are more consistent.Peace of mind: Great for frequent travelers or those who want fewer billing surprises.

Cons:

Separate drug plan needed: You’ll need to buy a standalone Part D plan if you want prescription coverage.Higher monthly premiums: You’ll pay more up front, but potentially less out of pocket later.Limited enrollment: The best time to buy is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (6 months after enrolling in Part B). After that, you may be subject to medical underwriting.

Which Is Right for You?

Choose Medicare Advantage if you want:Low premiums and extra benefits like dental or visionDon’t mind using a provider networkPrefer paying as you goChoose Medicare Supplement if you want:Freedom to choose any doctorTravel flexibilityLower out-of-pocket costs over time

Final Thoughts

Choosing between Medicare Advantage and Medigap isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your health needs, budget, and preferences. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone.

If you’d like help comparing your options, contact us at

Wahl Insurance

. We’re here to guide you through the Medicare maze with honest, personalized advice.