Should I keep original Medicare or go with an Part C, Medicare Advantage plan? What is better?

Question

Tony Capraro III · Accepted Answer

This answer is provided in a video format. Watch the agent's video response here: https://medicareagentshub.com/questions/should-i-keep-original-medicare-or-go-with-an-part-c-medicare-advantage-plan-what-is-better-#tony-capraro

William Lawler · Answer

Original Medicare (OM) is an 80/20 health plan. If hospitalized, the government pays 80% and you pay 20% of the costs. There is no limit on your 20%. A Part C (Advantage Plan) would cover a lot of these costs that OM does not. A Part C plan can also give you coverage for prescription drugs, vision, dental and hearing that OM does not.

Answered by William Lawler on May 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, FL, IA & 12 other states

Answered by William Lawler Medicare Insurance Agent

Paul Potter · Answer

You should compare both options to see which fits your requirements and needs.  I can help if you want.

Paul Potter
321-346-9996
PaulPotte@Email.com

Alondra Arce · Answer

Original Medicare lets you see almost any doctor, but it doesn't cover everything. Medicare Advantage (Part C) usually has extra perks and lower costs, but depending on the plan you have to stick to their network.

Answered by Alondra Arce on May 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 14 other states

Answered by Alondra Arce Medicare Insurance Agent

Melanie McCloud · Answer

What is better for one Medicare beneficiary, could be the biggest mistake for you. Unfortunately, there is no 'better' or 'best' when it comes to choosing your Medicare path. It is important that you work with a trusted broker to clarify your options.  

Original Medicare only should not be a consideration for most people. The financial gaps within Original Medicare will be catastrophic to most people. However, Original Medicare + a Medicare Supplement plan is what you will want to compare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. 

Most of our Medicare clients come down to the conclusion that it's Freedom VS Cost. The Medicare Supplement provides freedom of choice for a Medicare beneficiary, but typically at a higher monthly cost. The Medicare Advantage plan often has a $0 monthly premium for the plan itself, but you are often bargaining with some of your freedom of choice, such as what doctors you can see. 

Regarding the cost of a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan, we are referencing what Medicare Supplements & Medicare Advantage plans cost in the state of Florida, as costs can vary across the USA.

Diana Salisbury · Answer

Do research on your own.  Or take time to meet with an insurance professional to learn what your options might be.

Joseph Lombardo · Answer

Both original Medicare and Part C, Medicare Advantage plans have their benefits and drawbacks and to blanketly say one is better than the other would be hard to say. This is why having a licensed broker, who specializes in both original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans learn about the seniors own unique situation and help educate them would be important. Once the senior is fully informed, they themselves can make the decision on what would work best for them. I hope this helps.

Answered by Joseph Lombardo on May 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY, CT, NJ & PA

Answered by Joseph Lombardo Medicare Insurance Agent

Douglas Carney · Answer

Original Medicare offers flexibility to see any provider nationwide but lacks drug coverage and an out-of-pocket cap, risking higher costs. Medicare Advantage (Part C) bundles benefits, often includes extras like dental, and caps costs (e.g., $8,850 in 2025), but limits you to networks and may require prior approvals. If you want choice, consider Original Medicare with Medigap; if you’re healthy and prefer lower premiums, Advantage might suit you. Compare plans at Medicare.gov during open enrollment (October 15–December 7, 2024).

Answered by Douglas Carney on May 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, GA, NC, OK & TX

Answered by Douglas Carney Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Kramer · Answer

There is no "pat" answer to this questions. The variables are: #1 Where do you live, in a rural or urban area? Urban areas typically have more Dr's who take Advantage plans. #2 Did you or an agent, research your current Dr's to see which Advantage plans they accept? #3 Do you live in one place, or do you have a home in another state that you frequent? #4 Can you afford a Medicare supplement plan?

Answered by Andrew Kramer on May 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Should I keep original Medicare or go with an Part C, Medicare Advantage plan? What is better?

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Should I keep original Medicare or go with an Part C, Medicare Advantage plan? What is better?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website