Which is better: a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Medigap policy?
Answered by 8 licensed agents
There is no cookie cutter answer for this question so it's one of the most confusing, and requires the most amount of interviewing and planning to give someone the most concise answer. For example, I have met with people who were turning 65 that wanted a Medicare supplement. But after meeting with them, we found out that they were eligible for federal and state assistance that would not require them to pay for a Medicare supplement. So they were very relieved to know that they did not have to take out a Medicare, supplement and They were also not going to be required to pay the $185 monthly Medicare, part B premium. Make sure you are meeting with a unbiased Insurance agent face to face l. This can help alleviate a lot of concerns and making sure you're getting the most concise planning for your healthcare as you age.
There isn't a single "better" option between a Medicare Advantage plan and a Medigap policy. The best choice depends on individual healthcare needs and preferences. Medicare Advantage plans can offer lower monthly premiums but may have network restrictions and higher out-of-pocket costs, while Medigap plans offer broader provider choice and potentially lower out-of-pocket expenses but typically come with higher premiums.
Medical (Part B) covered at 100% after deductible (Plans G,N) 257.00 for 2025
Medicare supplement plans also known as medigap plans are regulated by the government, CMS: Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and are much better coverage.
You can go anywhere that takes original Medicare, no network issues like advantage plans.
You have several coverage options.
Medicare supplement plans can be changed at any time of the year. You can shop for identical coverage at a lower monthly premium as often as you like. Unlike medicare advantage plans, which can only be changed between Oct 15-Dec 7, and Jan 1 - Mar 31 each year.
Neither is “better” for everyone—it depends on your needs, budget, and how you use your healthcare. Medicare Advantage usually costs less each month and offers extra benefits but requires using the plan’s network, while Medigap costs more but lets you see any Medicare doctor with fewer bills.
One plan is not necessarily better than the other. The plan that you choose will be based on your needs and what works best for your health situation. They both have pros and cons and It is up to you to choose the plan, that you think you will be most comfortable with, after you fully understand the difference between the 2 types of plans.
Tough question. What's your medical situation? How do you see your future based on family history? Would you rather budget or pay as you go? Are you ok with networks or would you rather have more freedom? Do you live in a rural or urban area? If someone gives you an answer without asking you questions about your situation, I would be dubious of that answer.
Both plans have their own features and benefits. The agent can provide a side by side comparison and explained it to the client so they can make a wise decision on which plan is beneficial for them. Some people want to have the all in one coverage, some people want the original Medicare plan for their choice.
Medicare Advantage is like a package deal with lower costs but fewer choices of doctors, while Medigap costs more each month but lets you see almost any doctor and covers more of your bills.
If you want more freedom and less surprise costs, Medigap is better—but if you want extras like dental and don't mind a doctor list, Medicare Advantage might work great.