What's your go-to strategy for helping someone decide between Medicare Advantage and Medigap?

Question

Craig Kirscht · Accepted Answer

To help someone choose between Medicare Advantage and Medigap, I ask:
Health Usage: Frequent doctor visits or chronic conditions? → Medigap.
Budget: Want low monthly premiums? → Medicare Advantage. Prefer predictable costs? → Medigap.
Doctor Choice & Travel: Want nationwide coverage and keep any doctor? → Medigap. Okay with networks? → Medicare Advantage.
Drug Coverage: Want it included? → Medicare Advantage. Don’t mind a separate plan? → Medigap.
Simplicity: Want one bundled plan? → Medicare Advantage. Don’t mind piecing it together? → Medigap.

It's important to have a conversation going over all of this and find out what fits best for each individual. There are lots of plans out there with different benefits. Not all may fit your needs.

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

Hi, thanks for watching. So the question is, what's my go-to strategy for figuring out if someone should decide between a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare gap plan? The first thing to talk about is where does a person live? If they're in a metropolitan area, like we're in the Phoenix area, the networks here for Medicare Advantage are really good. I'm much more apt to suggest someone enroll in one. Here, because the networks are really super good, a lot of doctors and most hospital systems are in one of the Advantage networks, and it really works out well. If you're in a rural area, there's just not that many doctors. Typically, Medicare Advantage is not really the go-to kind of strategy, because the networks are a lot thinner. There's just not enough people up there. Typically, the benefits in a rural area are not as good on the Advantage plans as they are in the Valley or in a more metropolitan area. And typically, if somebody lives up in like Apache Junction, Prescott, Grand Canyon area, somewhere away from the Central Valley Phoenix area, I'm typically gonna recommend a Medicare gap plan or a supplement plan for them, because the coverage is really good. The downside to a supplement is you have to pay for it every month, whether you use it or not. And they start anywhere if you're 65, yeah, 170, 180 a month, plus a drug plan.

Mike Alexander · Answer

Doing a needs assessment to dertimine their needs, 
Asking questions about what they need and what is important to them as an individual

Mark Bilgere · Answer

My strategy starts with asking the person what is most important to them. I have a list and we go through it together. Once we go through the list we look at the plans that match the closest to their needs and wants. The hard part is they usually tell me the whole list is important. Then when I show them that there is no plan that includes everything they want at the cost they want, we go through the list again and decide what is really the most important. This is why no broker should ever tell you there is a "Best Plan." There isn't!

Once they have a better understanding of how the plans are structured, we usually start with their doctors and medications. Remember, Medicare plans are about your health first. Then, we move into costs and extra benefits.

Norman Smith · Answer

Explaining the hat you are giving up by taking an MA instead of a Medigap plan. You do not have control of your health. Instead you give to a corporate guy in a high rise smoking a nice cigar, who can approve or disapprove of your coverage. 
You give up the rights to the best doctors and facilities across the country wherever you are in the country! Not with your MA plan! Better be In Network! And for the most part going a county or 2 outside your region and you have no one in Network!
Get the Best while you can before they lessen the benefits of the best plan by removing it as a choice! They have consistently managed to put more and more responsibility on the policy holder and less for the government to have to pay. So think about it!

Lt Col Tim Brown · Answer

Explaining how supplements and advantage plans work. While you want me to make recommendations, it is important that people understand how the plans work. Doing that helps clients determine what is best for them.

Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown on May 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AL, CO & 10 other states

Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

George Ibanez · Answer

The strategy is very simple, and if the person can afford a Medicare supplement plan and they don't want to deal with networks, copays, and pre-authorizations, we always recommend to go with a Medicare supplement plan G and they will have a much more pleasant experience.

Answered by George Ibanez on February 18, 2026

Broker Licensed in AR, AL, AZ & 40 other states

Answered by George Ibanez Medicare Insurance Agent

Charise Karjala · Answer

I have a seven question algorythm that is 99% accurate.  Seven questions and the appropriate strategy is evident.

Tony Capraro III · Answer

What's your go-to strategy for helping someone decide between Medicare Advantage and Medigap? I love those questions here, mostly every day. The great thing about working with someone like me at my State Farm agency on Kelly Street in Manchester, New Hampshire, is that we offer both. We have no preconceived notions about what a client should have until we discuss their goals and objectives. We talk to them about Medicare Advantage and Medigap Medicare Supplement, sharing both the good and bad of each plan, and then let them decide. Again, it's a personal decision and a financial decision. Making these decisions at age 65, we all know that health doesn't get better as you get older. So work with someone like me who can offer both Medicare Advantage and Medigap Medicare Supplement policies to give you the pros and cons. Then you can make that decision. Great decisions come from good information. I would love to help you with that.

Ronnie Robinson Jr · Answer

Medicare 101 is always my go-to strategy for helping educate anyone on how Medicare works. It's actually the strategy of our entire team. We like sharing more than selling!

Through this concept, decisions are made with knowledge and confidence.

Christy Jones · Answer

I go over both types of plans and we talk about all of the differences between them. We discuss their current health needs as well as the cost differences between the two types of plans. How will they use their plan? How much do they want to spend on a plan? I have clients on both Medicare Supplements as well as Medicare Advantage plans, and my goal is to have a happy client.

Answered by Christy Jones on May 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID, AL, AR & 20 other states

Answered by Christy Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

Luke Rhoads · Answer

Do you want to have everything covered anywhere you want to go with no benefits or prescription drug coverage for a higher annual healthcare cost that can rise substantially as you age, or do you prefer to have co-pay exposure with some additional benefits and good prescription drug coverage for less every month.

Answered by Luke Rhoads on July 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK

Answered by Luke Rhoads Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven Whetstine · Answer

When choosing Medicare options, it is important to know what is important to the Medicare Beneficiary and Healthcare needs.

Some factors may include health risks and needs, financial concerns, lifestyle preferences and how one chooses to receive treatment or care.

For example, if your preference is to receive care through the Mayo Clinic, the Mayo Clinic only accepts original Medicare and Medicare Supplement or Medigap Plans.  They do not accept Medicare Advantage Plans.

If you like to travel or reside in more than one state in the year, then Medicare Supplement or Medigap plans typically make more sense.  You are not limited to a network and can receive your medical care anywhere.  With a Medicare Advantage plan, you typically have to wait until you get back to your local area within your network unless it is a medical emergency.

If someone has a chronic or severe condition, I evaluate their situation.  Is it during their initial enrollment period?  That has to be considered as there are no underwriting questions for a Medicare Supplement Plan or Medigap Plan and factor high utilization.  Otherwise, a chronic special needs plan may be appropriate for the person if they meet the criteria for the plan.

If one would like more flexibility in their care, a Medicare Supplement or Medigap plan may make sense because you do not have to get a referral and you can see any medical professional or visit any facility as long as they accept Medicare whereas you have to verify that your medical professionals and facilities are within the network with a Medicare Advantage plan.  

Would you prefer to pay a higher premium with less out of pocket expenses, or would you rather have no premium or much smaller premium and pay the out-of-pocket expenses as you utilize the plan?  

There are many things to consider when choosing the appropriate Medicare plan for you!

Donnie Vermillion · Answer

My strategy is to educate my client about the positives and negatives of an Advantage Plan , Medigap plan or staying with just original medicare.

Sandra Teel · Answer

My go-to is to take a look at each client individually. Each person has different health needs, different doctors and different prescriptions. What's good for one member of the family or a neighbor/friend is not necessarily good for them. I really do a deep dive into these differences and look at the Medicare options in the area to help them look at plan options. Then they can choose what works best for them.

Answered by Sandra Teel on April 28, 2026

Broker Licensed in WV, AZ, CA & 13 other states

Answered by Sandra Teel Medicare Insurance Agent

Mike Odle · Answer

Its important to understand first that Medicare Advantage plans are Medicare plans.  They are approved by Medicare every year, and in doing so, Medicare is saying this plan is as good as Original Medicare.  A person will have the same coverages, rights, and protections as Original Medicare.
The first thing I check is doctors and prescriptions.  Assuming all doctors that are important are in network for an advantage plan, I compare the difference in individual prescription costs.  A great deal of the time, prescription out of pocket is less on an advantage plan due to deductibles and copay structure.  Then I compare premiums of a Medigap with a prescription plan vs Potential out of pocket with copay's on an advantage plan.  If someone knows that they will require a great deal of medical attention over the next year, such as currently undergoing cancer treatment or having already scheduled a joint surgery such as a spinal or other joint replacement, a medigap is almost certainly going to be the way to go.  If known medical attention over the next year is relegated to a couple of doctor visits and some tests, then it's time to take hard look at if paying those premiums over the course of the year, which in my area could be $2400, is going to be a better use of funds than paying copays on a Medicare Advantage plan with a max out of pocket of $2500 for the year.  That is not to say if in the future if someone would require the aforementioned treatments that they made a bad decision by going with an advantage plan.  Under those scenarios there's a good chance someone would have paid in more in premiums to a Medigap policy than they ever would have had out of pocket on an advantage plan.  Simply put, lets make the best decision based on what we know to be true at the time we enroll.

James Hale · Answer

All cases are different but most people are not financially prepared to pay the cost for both the Part B premium AS WELL AS the Medigap premium. That being said, some medical conditions can be even more costly under a Medicare Advantage plan before all is said and done so it is a good idea to do a medical needs and cost analysis to determine if there are any compelling reasons for them to choose one plan over the other.

Answered by James Hale on March 19, 2026

Broker Licensed in GA, AL, LA, OH & TX

Answered by James Hale Medicare Insurance Agent

Nicholas Depke · Answer

Here is the updated response:

My go-to approach is to start with a simple education session before ever talking about specific products. I literally pull out a piece of paper and walk through the basics so the person in front of me can see exactly how Medicare works, what the gaps are, and why those gaps matter. When people can look at it visually and follow along, the whole thing starts to make a lot more sense. From there I assess their full picture, including their budget, their health situation, how often they use their coverage, and which doctors and medications matter most to them. Honestly, if someone can afford a Medigap policy, that is usually my first preference because the freedom, predictability, and access it provides are hard to beat, especially as people get older and start using their coverage more frequently. But the reality is that the monthly premium for a supplement plus a standalone Part D plan is out of reach for some people, and putting someone in a plan they cannot comfortably afford does not serve them well. In those cases, the goal shifts to finding the best possible Medicare Advantage plan for their specific needs, making sure their doctors are in network, their medications are covered, and their out-of-pocket exposure is manageable. There is no one size fits all answer, and anyone who tells you otherwise is not giving you the full picture. The best plan is the one that fits your life and your budget, and that looks different for everyone.

Mary Green · Answer

My Go To strategy when helping someone choose between Medigap and Medicare Advantage is to sit down with my client and crunch the numbers. That helps determine which option will make the most financial sense given their average utilization of healthcare. Which option will most likely offer them everything they want in terms of benefits at the lowest cost.

Answered by Mary Green on October 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in AL, CO, FL, GA, TN & VA

Answered by Mary Green Medicare Insurance Agent

Susan O&#039;Kelley · Answer

It's all about getting to know the person. Find out about what's important to them and ask about preferences for their doctors and scrips. Then go over the difference in costs, coverages, and coverage limits such as Copays & Cost Sharing (MAPD) versus a fixed monthly premium with a low annual deductible (Medigap). Sometimes using language such as "Bundled with Part D" (MAPD) versus "A la Carte" (Medigap with standalone Part D) helps paint the "big picture" of the difference between Medicare Advantage versus Medigap/Medicare Supplemental plans.

Answered by Susan O'Kelley on October 6, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO, AL, AZ & 20 other states

Answered by Susan O'Kelley Medicare Insurance Agent

Anthony Castelluccio · Answer

I really don't have a strategy to help someone decide Medicare Advantage vs Original Medicare. I always explain all of the details about both options. The 2 big differences are Medicare Advantage you should stay in network and if you have some chronic conditions then you could pay a lot more out of pocket then Original Medicare plus a supplement. Also if you are on a Medicare Advantage for more than 12 months you may not be able to qualify to get into a Medicare Supplemental plan. Many people i meet don't know that and are stuck paying a lot for their health care.

Answered by Anthony Castelluccio on April 12, 2025

Agent Licensed in PA, DE, MD, NJ & VA

Answered by Anthony Castelluccio Medicare Insurance Agent

Sharri Crawford · Answer

First would be does the consumer have the money to pay for a Medicare supplement?
IF Money is tight then I would recommend looking at Medicare Advantage plans.
Second is the consumer someone who spends 6 months in another state or travels a lot.
If they travel then I would recommend Supplement so it will cover them wherever they are.

Tammera Marrs · Answer

Presenting both Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement options is how we help clients decide. Normally during our presentation the client has a definite decision before we are even done presenting. We feel education is the best option

Answered by Tammera Marrs on May 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in KS

Answered by Tammera Marrs Medicare Insurance Agent

Donna Lueders · Answer

In order to determine a person's option, the first step would be to complete a thorough needs assessment. Only then, can an agent develop a strategy to determine which alternative is in the person's best interst.

Answered by Donna Lueders on February 2, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL, GA, LA, NC & SC

Answered by Donna Lueders Medicare Insurance Agent

Nathan Wright · Answer

This is the question I deal with every single day, and it really comes down to two things — budget and health. A Medicare Supplement costs more monthly but gives you much less exposure when you actually need care, while an Advantage plan has low to no premium but costs more when you use it. What's changed the game is Umbrella coverage — it fills in the gaps of an Advantage plan and gives you much stronger protection at a fraction of the cost of a Supplement — but at the end of the day it still comes down to the individual, and that's exactly what we do every day.

Answered by Nathan Wright on May 23, 2026

Broker Licensed in TN, AL, FL & 10 other states

Answered by Nathan Wright Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Ferraro · Answer

First I make sure they unerstand how Medicare works.

Next I check to see if they can afford a Medicare Supplement.

Then we go over overall health.  Many Dr visits?  Often at a specialist?

I then do a side by side comparison of a med sup and Medicare Advantage plan and explain this is just a general example so you can see how it works.

We then talk about their risk profile and I make a formal recomendation.

Once they choose we put together a list of Dr's and Medications (Even if they are going with Medigap)  and compare plans 

By the end of this process it's usually pretty clear to the client what they should do.

Keaton Lewis · Answer

When explaining the differences between the two, I like to say the Medigap is the "prepay" option and Medicare Advantage is the "pay as you go" option. If a client knows they are going to have some serious health issues and lots of medical care, i would recommend the Medigap route. However if they are pretty healthy and especially if they are looking to save money, I usually recommend Medicare Advantage, so they can "pay as they go" instead of paying up front whether or not they need it.

Answered by Keaton Lewis on May 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID, AZ, CA & 12 other states

Answered by Keaton Lewis Medicare Insurance Agent

Jon Rausch · Answer

My go to comes down to local acceptance and affordability. You can have the cheapest plan but if hardly any Doctors accept your plan. It is pretty much useless.

Steven Bleicher · Answer

There are 3 major questions that I pose to everybody who asks this common question. They are:

A) Do you or your spouse have any potentially serious health issues?

B) Do you have a favorable family history of longevity? (mother, father, siblings, etc.)

C) Do you have the finances needed to pay for the monthly premium for a Medigap?

Once I stop talking and allow my clients to ponder all of the above answers, then it is extremely important for me to review all of their implications mentioned by these 3 main questions.  Moreover, if all of the above inquiries "lean toward a negative answer", my diagnosis for this particular client is that a Medigap is the better choice than the free Advantage plan that contains a fairly steep out-of-pocket deductible cost each year.

Jim Tretola · Answer

Unfortunately, the go to question really boils down to one’s budget,Many people can not afford a Mefigap plan, so it is not an option.
However, a Broker can help you look at options, such as a high deductible Medigap plan, if that works for you, or an Advantage Plan complemented by a hospital indemnity and cancer plan, to give you great protection.

Kristen Skinner · Answer

I show them both options side by side and compare the pros and cons. Then I let them decide. I also check to make sure their doctors and drugs are in the quotes so we can see if they are in network.

Leslie Kaz · Answer

Medigap gives you freedom, predictability, and fewer surprises—it costs more monthly.
Medicare Advantage costs less monthly, includes more extras, but comes with networks and pay-as-you-go costs.
The right choice depends on whether you value control, cost, or convenience.

Kris Moen · Answer

Medigap is like prepaying your medical bills so nothing surprises you.
Advantage is cheaper each month, but if something big happens, you’ve got skin in the game.

Terry Salak · Answer

As an independent agent I do my due diligence with clients and show them both options. There are a lot of differences in benefits as well as monthly cost and I want them to understand both sides of this. It is my job to educate a potential client and help them make a decision that works for them. What is good for one person may not be what's good for someone else.

Answered by Terry Salak on November 12, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 11 other states

Answered by Terry Salak Medicare Insurance Agent

Cleo Martin · Answer

My goto strategy is to explain. Pay me now or pay me latter. Plus putting your Healthcare costs on a budget. Also talk about networks of Medicre Advantages and managed care. Then let them decided what they are comfortable with.

Answered by Cleo Martin on September 27, 2025

Agent Licensed in SC, FL, GA, MI & NC

Answered by Cleo Martin Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Yost · Answer

My strategy is to best explain both options to someone and let them decide what is best for them. Medicare is a very complicated system and people need to understand how their plan options work so they can make an informed decision.

Answered by Michael Yost on March 30, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, AL, AZ & 27 other states

Answered by Michael Yost Medicare Insurance Agent

Gus Karigan · Answer

Don’t choose based on the premium—choose based on how you want to access care.

Medicare Advantage often looks attractive because of low or $0 premiums, but it typically comes with networks, referrals, and prior authorizations. Original Medicare with a supplement costs more monthly, but gives you maximum flexibility—no networks, fewer restrictions, and predictable out-of-pocket costs.

So the real question is: 

	Do you want freedom to see any doctor nationwide without referrals? → Lean Original Medicare + Medigap

	Or are you comfortable with a managed network to save on monthly premiums? → Medicare Advantage

If someone makes the decision purely on premium, they often regret it when they actually need care.

Richard Kozlowski · Answer

It is more of providing an education on how each works, reviewing medications, doctor needs, and cost. It's a personal choice you can make if you have all the information,

Rich Kozlowski
LifeSmart Senior Services
Contact me.

Brianna Douros · Answer

Hey y'all, Brianna, your favorite life and health insurance agent, owner of Be Real Insurer, bringing you real solutions. I think quite a bit of questions are wondering the difference between the Medicare supplement and a Medicare Advantage plan. Let's break it down.

Medicare supplement, often called a Medigap plan, is going to work alongside original Medicare. It's going to help cover things like copays and deductibles that Medicare doesn't. Now, keep in mind it does not cover dental, vision, hearing, or prescription drugs. But the big advantage is freedom. You can see any doctor nationwide who accepts original Medicare without having to worry about any networks.

Medicare Advantage plans are offered through private insurance companies, and they're going to combine your Part A, your Part B, and usually your Part D prescription drug into one plan. Many of these plans are going to include extras like dental, vision, and hearing, but you'll likely have copays, deductibles, and you may even need to send to a network of providers.

So, which one is best for you? Well, that's really going to depend on your health needs, your lifestyle, and even your budget. So that's exactly where I come in here to help sort through all your options and find what's best for you. As always, don't hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions. And until next time, y'all keep it real.

Aaron Solomon · Answer

Hi there! You wanted to know about the difference between a Medicare Advantage plan and a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan. The difference is that with a Medicare Advantage plan, you pay as you go for the services you use. With the Supplement (Medigap) plan, you pay a monthly premium, and except for the deductible in Plan G, you're basically covered for everything.

The Medicare Advantage plan offers dental, vision, hearing, and extras, while the Supplement plan doesn't include those benefits. If you want dental, vision, or hearing coverage, you have to get separate plans for that. The way I tell people to look at this is to consider what is most comfortable for you; that is the right choice.

Another thing is that with a Supplement plan, you can travel in the United States and go to any hospital that accepts Medicare. With the managed plans, there are only certain plans that provide out-of-state or out-of-network medical coverage, and those are United Healthcare and Humana, specifically from the state of Ohio. I do not know what other states have. If you have any questions, please call. Otherwise, have a great day!

Carolyn Duncan · Answer

Make sure you know what the difference in how they each work, then make sure you know what happens once you sign up now and, in the future, if you want to change your plan. The rules and regulations have many in's and out's and should be well understood before signing up for any plan.

Answered by Carolyn Duncan on July 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, CA, CO & 12 other states

Answered by Carolyn Duncan Medicare Insurance Agent

Jeffrey Barone · Answer

Depending on the needs of the client, i would help determine MAPD or Medigap. Then i would explain the larger network with a Medigap plan

Marisa Mitchell · Answer

I like to see what my clients goals are in retirement. Lifestyle, premiums, network restrictions and extra benefits all factor into helping my clients achieve the peace of mind and meet their needs.

David Tedrow · Answer

If you can afford it Original Medicare with a Medigap plan and PDP is the most ideal coverage as it increases your access to care and eliminates Prior Authorization.

Michael Braden · Answer

I like to ask the prospective client, what their understanding is of both Medicare ADvantage and Original Medicare with adding a Medicare Supplement/Medigap plan.

From there, I just speak with them about their travel plans, will they be staying in their local are primarily, or; do they anticipate traveling, that is when I reiterate the differences with the plans.

Often times Medicare Advantage plans can bea good fit, if the prospect needs/desires the extra benefits taht come with the plans, but they are restrictive.  Then, I draw their attention to the MOOP, that comes with each MA plan,  Explaining that there often times, the MOOP can be 2-4 times more in poteeential out of pocket costs than having Original Medicare with a Supplement.

Lastly, I urge them to spend  time reading teh Explanation of Benefits section of any MA Plan they are considering, so they have a firm understanding of the benefits, and how   they work,

Gary Henderson · Answer

Medigap plans are the much, much better plan coverage flexibility everything 
So it's purely a matter of affordability. If you can afford a plan that is a Medigap plan n is the one I recommend that's my recommendation 
If you can't afford it, then you want to go with a Medicare advantage plan that has the least amount of perks 
Now as that might sound odd, you are being baited by the insurance companies with all these perks to have a higher Max out of pocket annually. So when you get sick they pay less you pay more

Pat Papson · Answer

Hi..
After doing this for so long, there are question I ask, to help me and the client decide which plan works for them..

This includes income, and health.. Since a Supplement provides one of the Best plans, if you definitely want to go where you want for your health care, but then, hearing, vision, dental and Prescription are coverages not usually in a Supplement plan. And Supplements usually increase in price annuallt

I absolutely try my best for the plan to fit the clients needs..

Thanks for your question

Rodolfo Rojas · Answer

Need analysis. You have to decide what the customer wants and decide with me by looking at the different options. Is he in good health? Can he afford a supplemental policy? Does he understand the supplement model?

Answered by Rodolfo Rojas on July 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in NV, AL, AR & 36 other states

Answered by Rodolfo Rojas Medicare Insurance Agent

Antonio Rodriguez · Answer

My go-to strategy is simple: I don’t start with the plans — I start with you.

First, I ask about your doctors and prescriptions.
Second, I ask about your budget — are you more comfortable with a higher monthly premium and very little surprise bills, or lower premium and pay-as-you-go costs?
Third, I look at how often you travel and whether nationwide access matters to you.
Fourth, I talk about long-term flexibility — because switching later can be harder depending on health.

Then we compare side-by-side:

• Medigap = higher premium, very predictable costs, broad doctor access nationwide.
• Medicare Advantage = lower premium, copays as you use services, network-based, includes extra benefits.

There’s no “one size fits all.” The right answer depends on your health, risk tolerance, and financial comfort level.

John Motsinger · Answer

I wouldn't call it a strategy.I just do a very good job.E educating my client on the difference between medicare advantage and medicare supplement so they can make the best decision for themselves. Now if they don't have income to pay the premium and assets to protect then, I encourage them to go medicare advantage instead of med sup. Now if they have chronic health conditions and they do have income to pay the premiums and the assets to protect then i'm going to encourage them to enroll in a medicare supplement.

Answered by John Motsinger on September 28, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY, CO, FL & 9 other states

Answered by John Motsinger Medicare Insurance Agent

Tamela Clayton · Answer

My go-to strategy is a simple needs assessment in plain English. 
I start by looking at three things: their doctors, their medications, and their budget. 
If a Medigap premium is realistic, we walk through how that would work versus Medicare Advantage options in their area. 
If a Medigap premium really isn’t affordable, then it’s not a true ‘either/or’ decision, so we focus on finding the Medicare Advantage plan that best fits their providers and drugs. 
In those cases I spend extra time educating them on the real-world costs, rules, and networks so they’re not surprised later by copays, referrals, or prior authorizations.

Lillian Hill · Answer

Beginning with a needs analysis to establish priorities of each individual that I counsel and represent. During these processes my client details what matters most to them in areas such as budget, medical providers, pharmaceuticals, travel, dental, vision, hearing, over the counter benefits (OTC), wellness-lifestyle benefits and most especially pre-existing health issues and underwriting qualifications. We figure it out together.

This is a great question, and I am glad you brought it up!

🎯

James Wareheim · Answer

There is not a set answer.  We would need to talk about the needs of the client.  Look at their budget and other factors to help them decide what is best for them.

Shahwali Hotaki · Answer

Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap

1. Do you want to see any doctor in the U.S. who takes Medicare?
➡ Yes → Medigap
➡ No → Go to Question 2

2. Is keeping your monthly premium as low as possible your top priority?
➡ Yes → Medicare Advantage
➡ No → Medigap

Charlie Fitzgerald · Answer

Spending as much time as necessary to discuss their expectations and desires for coverage. Identifying what makes the best sense for their individual case. Then explaining all the options that they have available and recommending the option that best meets their needs.

Answered by Charlie Fitzgerald on September 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in NV, AZ, CA & 12 other states

Answered by Charlie Fitzgerald Medicare Insurance Agent

Patrick Stinson · Answer

In my opinion, there is no go to strategy or one size fits all. Everyone has a different situation that creates different needs. No two are the same. I suggest you talk with a licensed Broker / Agent. I hope this helps.

Answered by Patrick Stinson on November 30, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX, AR, AZ & 9 other states

Answered by Patrick Stinson Medicare Insurance Agent

Ingrid Kollmann · Answer

Show the client the advantages and disadvantages as well as costs.  Not one size fits all. It all depends on the client's needs and financial situation.

William Wheatley · Answer

The real choice here should be Parts A and B with a Medigap plan and Part D plan for prescription drug coverage versus a Part C Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage. I will show real-life examples of what one offers for a hospital stay of several days compared to the other. Medicare Advantage is more complete, like a major medical plan, but a Medigap plan is still paired with Medicare Parts A and B and usually helps with paying some of the out-of-pocket co-pays and deductibles. You are responsible fora deductible of around $9,000 and 20% thereafter of the bill.

Answered by William Wheatley on January 19, 2026

Agent Licensed in MD

Answered by William Wheatley Medicare Insurance Agent

Matthew Moreno · Answer

I look at network first. If the Medicare advantage plan does not have there doctors then I go to medicare supplement. Next is I look at what my client values in terms of a plan. Do you plan to travel? Is the premium a concern you have for a medicare supplement plan? If no concern then I usually recommend a medicare supplement/medigap plan if they have a concern on network and prior authorizations.

Answered by Matthew Moreno on August 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, AZ, FL, TX & VA

Answered by Matthew Moreno Medicare Insurance Agent

Brenda Skasko · Answer

First and foremost, getting to know what the prospect/client is already familiar with in regards to Healthcare, what’s important to them, and then keeping it as simple as possible. I listen to their top priorities, do my homework, and give them the best options that fits their budget and needs.

Answered by Brenda Skasko on November 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in DE, MD & PA

Answered by Brenda Skasko Medicare Insurance Agent

Ira Smith · Answer

Primary strategy is determining what doctors are in their network so as to best service their needs, making things most convenient for them. Medical is for those who are not within any reasonable network & need to spend more money regardless.

Answered by Ira Smith on May 4, 2026

Agent Licensed in OK

Answered by Ira Smith Medicare Insurance Agent

Sue Mendoza · Answer

I talk with the client to see what their goals are and how I can help them achieve their goals. I explain both options after reviewing their goals.

Roseann Vandevender · Answer

I always list the pros and cons to their personal situation. This helps them make an informed decision. I also stress that a T 65 or First time Part B enrollee has a "freebie in" to any MediGap policy per Medicare rules. if the want to switch at a later date they might not qualify for the coverage.

Answered by Roseann Vandevender on June 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in OH, AZ, CO & TX

Answered by Roseann Vandevender Medicare Insurance Agent

Dalyaness Martinez · Answer

Depends on the personal needs of someone. Some people need transportation, or extra money for food, bills, OTC products. Or other people need the freedom to travel anywhere and still be covered for medical. It's truly based on personal needs and wants.

Answered by Dalyaness Martinez on August 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in AR & FL

Answered by Dalyaness Martinez Medicare Insurance Agent

Gabrielle Sones · Answer

Hello, it's Gabrielle, your go-to insurance girl. One of the biggest questions I get is which is better: Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement? Honestly, it depends on you, your lifestyle, your health, and your budget. Let me break it down, starting with a Medicare Supplement.

A Medicare Supplement works in conjunction with your Original Medicare. Your Original Medicare is going to be your Part A and Part B. A lot of people like to choose this route because with Original Medicare, you don't need a referral for a specialist. There's not an HMO or PPO network to worry about. As long as you go to any facility or doctor that accepts Original Medicare, you're going to be okay. The only thing you would have to purchase separately is a prescription drug plan, or Part D, because that's not included with your Supplement, along with a separate dental and vision plan if that's something you need or want. The only downside to a Medicare Supplement option is that it could be a little bit more on the pricier end monthly.

Now, with a Medicare Advantage plan, also called Part C, you will have all your benefits bundled together through a carrier. So, your hospital, your medical, and usually your prescription drugs are all in one. Depending on the plan, some of these plans have extra benefits like dental, vision, gym memberships, and over-the-counter benefits. However, they do have a network that you need to stay within for certain providers and facilities, as well as service areas. One upside to these plans is that they can be a little bit less monthly.

So, which option do I recommend? I don't recommend just one. I recommend what's best for you. Some people love the flexibility of Original Medicare with a Supplement, and others just love the simplicity and extra benefits of a Medicare Advantage plan. That's why I'm here to help you compare side by side and choose what fits your life.

Jeff LeSourd · Answer

Determining client needs/ requirements for the following items:
Original Medicare (OM) with Medigap allows choice of all Drs that accept Medicare vs. limited Medicare Advantage (MA) plans.
Medical health of patient now and possible future issues. 
Concern about future medical issues being delayed or denied by MA plans vs. Not Applicable with Medigap. 
Copays and coinsurance costs and billing issues only with MA plans.
MOOP Maximum Out Of Pocket costs/risk with MA plans vs. Monthly premiums and one time annual deductible with Medigap. 
Significant changes in the MA market. 
If dental and vision services are critical.

Michael Ross · Answer

First and foremost, I perform a needs assessment which in turn allows me to make the proper recommendations based on your healthcare needs. Next, we will determine the costs of these plans to be sure you do not let these plans out-price your current and future budget.

Answered by Michael Ross on December 12, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY, CT, FL & 5 other states

Answered by Michael Ross Medicare Insurance Agent

Anthony Scott · Answer

My go-to strategy for helping someone decide between Medicare advantage and Medigap is to ask the right questions as I do my needs assessment in order to determine their needs, and their wishes.

I feel that I have to develop a good knowledge foundation of my Prospect in order to best serve them.

Rene Casanova · Answer

What is most important to the client such as the freedom to go to any doctor or hospital without having to make sure they are in a network or getting a referral to see a specialist, and their budget.  If they can afford a Medigap policy and Part D prescription drug plan and want the freedom to choose any doctor they want to see the choice is an easy one.

Kevin Price · Answer

It all depends on the persons situation. Everyone’s is different. I gather all the info and make a recommendation between the 2 choices.

Jeffrey Brucculeri · Answer

It really boils down to their needs and how they want to manage their medical expenses. With an advantage plan, many carriers offer $0 premium plans, so if the client is relatively healthy, they may decide they would like to keep their money in their own pocket and pay copays along the way if they need any medical services. With a Medigap or supplement plan, the client will pay a premium each month but may have a deductible or copays (depending on what plan they pick). A Medigap plan might be beneficial for someone who has many health issues and needs a lot of care. The monthly premium instead of copays, might help them plan their budget easier for the year.

Danielle Moody · Answer

I like to do a thorough needs assessment and go over all options with my clients to determine which plan options are best for their situation. Sometimes, depending on income, travel, and other factors, it makes a big difference.

Joseph &quot;Joey&quot; Gutierrez · Answer

A thorough needs analysis and benefit comparison and cost comparison where you understand the difference.

Jake Dalton · Answer

Education. Then they make their choice. We educate our clients first. Then help them with their decision get enrolled. Simple as that.

Trevor Nahodil · Answer

cost break down and how it fits into their lives now vs in the future is a key component that I focus on and look into also they can be better for different people as well.

Alaina Frederick · Answer

I have  Sonny and Cher presentation that everyone finds very helpful. We look at what Sonny will pay and what his advantages and disadvantages are on a Medigap. Then, we look at what Cher will pay and what her advantages and disadvantages are on a Medicare Advantage. I introduce a scenario of Sonny and Cher both having an emergency ride to the Hospital, having a surgery and admission in the Hospital for 5 days. We look at what each person will incur in expense and also claims , authorizations, networks. All the things!

Ciriaco Gelera · Answer

To boil the decision down to key trade-offs (Cost, Choice, and Coverage) and then personalize the choice base on their answers.

Denise Berg · Answer

My strategy is to explain each and ask follow up questions like;

a) Do you travel within the US and do you reside in another state for 6 months?
b) Do you want the freedom to see any doctor?
c) How do you feel about copays?
d) Would you rather have one card to access your all of your benefits?
e) Would you prefer not to have a schedule for preventive services that limits exams?

Jennifer Stark · Answer

My go to strategy is to show the difference between the 2 plans. making sure the client understands how they differ in each coverage. Then helping them break down what their personal needs are, and answering all questions they have. From there they can decide what works best for the healthcare needs.

Jessica Yen Le · Answer

It would be depends on each case situation. I believe if you can afford the medigap, go for it, because the cost will increase by you aged. If you cannot, go for advantage, the medical group can follow up with your health journey to make sure you get enough care as well as they have system to avoid the malpractice problems,etc. Each of them have their own pros & cons. So make sure to understand what they are and which one is suitable for your own situation & requirements. Hope each of you get the right plan.

Wayne Creeden · Answer

The only way to know for sure would be to sit with someone who is a certified financial planner, otherwise, an agent may be doing it based on the amount of commission they get.  I would recommend calling an agency like IRACARE.  They have multiple certified financial planners.

David Perkins · Answer

The best thing to do is call & schedule an appointment with me at my office. You can find contact info by searching for united seniors insurance agency.

Roderick Gilliam · Answer

While financial means  is always taken into consideration. I also want to understand the clients medical needs and lifestyle . 

It generally comes to two categories with the question being which do you value more flexibility or predictability. Once that’s been established, I will prepare options. We will. thoroughly discuss the options and revise if necessary.

DeeDee England · Answer

My strategy for helping someone decide between Medicare Advantage and Medigap would be to first go over how Medicare works.  Then I would explain how each of these options works with Original Medicare.  I would show them all the options for each of these with the companies available in their area as well as the costs involved.