If Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are better for long-term coverage, why don’t more people choose them?
Answered by 3 licensed agents
MA companies make it seem so easy! They lay out the positives, but don't show what is missing from the policies, such as the choice of practitioners, specialists, or travel benefits. It doesn't show that the highest quality choices very often do not accept the MA product. It doesn't show what Out-of-Pocket costs are if you do not choose a Network Provider. It doesn't clarify that in giving your Original Medicare back for the MA plan that you lose coverage for your Durable Medical Equipment needs. Those plans need to be changed every year, and the policy you have today may not be in place next year, or your Doctor may not even participate in that plan any longer. You rarely have that issue with Medigap plans.
And we cannot leave out that the premiums for the Medigap plans may be out of reach for some. Unfortunately, some find out too late that they chose "Easy" instead of "Thorough", and what they saved in premiums cost them hugely later on when they needed more quality coverage.
Answered by Norman Smith on April 1, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL & PA
Some reasons people choose Medicare Supplement:
They can afford the monthly premium - as they tend to be higher than the advantage plans and can afford the annual raise in cost.
There are no networks.
Prior authorizations are not required for services.
Referrals are not required for specialists.
Some reasons people choose Medicare Advantage over Medicare supplement:
Monthly premiums can be as low as $0.
They can include other coverages such as dental, vision, hearing and more.
Medicare Advantage Plans have a maximum out of pocket cost.
Answered by Sandra Kerley on March 30, 2025
Broker Licensed in SC, NC, OH, VA & VT
• No networks.
• Less prior authorizations.
• More financial protection if something serious happens.
• Standardized...A Plan G is a Plan G no matter where you live. They don’t change from year-to-year.
After that, the main reasons why more people don’t choose them are as follows:
1. The 800# TV ads from the corrupt, publicly traded e-brokers. The ads and agents that represent these companies do not give full disclosure about ALL the options and pros and cons of each option that a Medicare beneficiary has. Unfortunately many people that have enrolled into Medicare Advantage over the last 5 years or so have little to no clue what they have and the pros and cons that go along with it.
2. Almost 20% of Medicare beneficiaries also receive Medicaid, therefore they have no need for a Medicare Supplement.
3. Many people can’t afford the escalating premiums. For those that can’t, they need to seriously consider a High-Deductible Plan G. It is “The Best Alternative To Medicare Advantage.” See here: https://youtu.be/J3g9a3-nHaQ
4. Then you have a large percentage of Medicare beneficiaries that have group retiree coverage in place of or in addition to their regular Medicare. These would include those who have retired from federal, state, and local government, as well as those in the military that have Tricare for Life.
5. Lastly, there are people that have truly weighed their options and prefer Medicare Advantage over a Medicare Supplement because of the $0 to low premiums and the extra benefits (dental, vision, etc.). And they are willing to deal with copays, networks, and annual changes. From my experience and research, the vast majority of people that have a Medicare Advantage plan are satisfied to very satisfied with their plans.
So, “better" depends on each Medicare beneficiary's specific needs, philosophy, and budget.
I hope that helps.
Regards,
Chris
Answered by Chris Prang on March 27, 2025
Broker Licensed in VA, AZ, CA & 13 other states
Tags: Advice for Seniors Coverage Medicare Supplement
Agents: Share Your Expertise
Have insights or experiences related to this topic? Help others by sharing your knowledge and answering this question.
Add Your Answer