Medicare Advantage vs Medigap: Which Is Right for You?

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) leaves gaps — deductibles, copays, and no out-of-pocket maximum. Two very different products fill those gaps: Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap). Choosing between them is one of the most important decisions you will make about your coverage.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

These plans, offered by private insurers, bundle your Part A and B benefits and often add extras like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage. Premiums can be low — sometimes $0 — but you use a network of providers and pay copays as you go, up to an annual out-of-pocket limit.

Medigap (Medicare Supplement)

Medigap works alongside Original Medicare, paying some or all of the deductibles and coinsurance it leaves behind. You can see any provider that accepts Medicare nationwide, with little or no cost at the point of care — but monthly premiums are higher, and drug coverage is purchased separately as a Part D plan.

Which Fits You?

• Choose Advantage if you want low premiums, extra benefits, and are comfortable with a network
• Choose Medigap if you value provider freedom, predictable costs, and travel often
• Consider your prescriptions, preferred doctors, and budget together — not in isolation

Timing Matters

Your best opportunity to buy Medigap with guaranteed acceptance is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which begins when you are 65 and enrolled in Part B. Wait too long and you could face medical underwriting.