Medicare Advantage Vs. Medicare Supplement
What's the difference?
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Supplement
A bundled plan offered as an alternative to Original Medicare
A plan that works alongside your Original Medicare benefits
Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C)
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurance companies and bundle together the coverage of Parts A and B—and often Part D for prescriptions—into one plan.
Key Features
- Combines hospital, medical, and sometimes prescription drug coverage
- May include dental, vision, hearing, and wellness benefits
- Often has no or lower monthly premiums
- Requires you to use a network of providers (HMO or PPO)
- You pay copays as you go
- Has an Out-of-Pocket maximum
What Is Medicare Supplement (Medigap)?
Medicare Supplement plans work alongside Original Medicare and help cover the "gaps"—like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
Key Features
- Helps pay out-of-pocket costs not covered by Medicare
- No networks—see any doctor who accepts Medicare
- Monthly premium required
- Does not include prescription drug coverage (Part D must be purchased separately)
- Does not include Dental, Vision, or Hearing coverage (must be purchased separately)
Best For:
People who prefer an all-in-one plan with extra benefits and are comfortable using a provider network.
Best For:
Those who value predictable costs, flexibility in choosing providers, and frequent healthcare use or travel.
