Skip to main content

Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement—the explanation you’re looking for.

Medicare Advantage vs Medicare Supplement - Senior Couple Close-up While Embracing on a Sunny Day

Home » Medicare Resources » Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement

Learn more about the differences between Medicare Advantage and Medicare supplement plans.

Trying to figure out which is better for you?

You can only have one or the other. There are pro’s and con’s to both and it comes down to what you prefer. Many people opt for an advantage plan for a low premium, predictable out of pocket costs, an out of pocket limit, drug coverage included, and extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and gym. While others opt for a medicare supplement and pay the premium to have low to no out of pocket costs for Part A & Part B services. While being able to see any doctor that accepts Medicare without a problem.

Medicare Advantage is on the rise.

Medicare Advantage is gaining popularity these days and can have a lot of perks but they aren’t perfect. Many people opt for an advantage plan because they can be more economical as an all in one plan and come with extra benefits.

Many advantage plans have no premium or a low premium and are easier on the budget while providing people all of their Part A and Part B coverage and most of the time Part D coverage. They can provide more predictable out of pocket costs than original Medicare and extra benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, gym memberships, part B giveback, and more for sometimes no premium.

Healthier people can sometimes save money paying as they go throughout the year for care with an advantage plan rather than paying a large supplement premium which adds up. While many doctors and hospital participate and accept advantage plans these days some are out of network or won’t accept them. The other drawback some people run into is high copays.

It’s important to discuss and understand your need, coverage limitations and cost sharing under your advantage plan. Contact us for more information.

When would you choose a Medicare supplement plan?

Sometimes a Medicare Supplement is a better fit. Having a supplement can provide more predictable out of pocket costs and peace of mind. They may have a sizable premium but people may opt for them anyway for the peace of mind or the fact the know they will probably use it.

The nice thing with a supplement is they allow people to see any provider who accepts Medicare without a problem and have low to no out of pocket costs for covered services. There are no networks to worry about. The main drawback is the price, usually anywhere from $150-$300 a month. As well as the fact they usually don’t offer extra benefits like dental, vision, etc. If you want drug coverage you also need to purchase a Part D plan which is an additional premium. When you turn 65 you have a 6 month window to enroll in a Supplement with no problem called the “Open Enrollment Period” If you miss that you can pick up a supplement later on but you may pay a higher premium due to your health or age and can be subject to a waiting period.

Many states have guaranteed issue rights and don’t rate based on age, smoking, or health while other states do. It’s important to check your state’s rules with Medicare Supplements. Guaranteed issue means they can’t deny the application based on your health. Many supplements waive the typical 6 month waiting period if you’ve had prior insurance such as a Medicare Advantage, Supplement plan, or employer plan within the last 63 days. Contact us to learn more.

Find Your Coverage

We’re here to help you explore your coverage options.

Request Quote

Contact OB1 Insurance

 518-661-6300
Email Us
 518-661-6302 fax

Let’s Get Started

  1. Step 1Fill out the form.
  2. Step 2Review your options with us.
  3. Step 3Get the coverage you need.

Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement Quote Request

"*" indicates required fields

Name
Please do not include sensitive, private information in this area.

Your information will be provided to a licensed agent for future contact.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Don’t like forms? Contact us at 518-661-6300 or email us.