Medicare Advantage vs Medigap (Medicare Supplement)
Compare the two most popular ways to fill your Medicare coverage gaps.
May River Medicare makes the decision clear, with expert guidance and all the facts you need.
Compare plans. Get answers. Choose confidently.
May River Medicare makes the decision clear, with expert guidance and all the facts you need.
Compare plans. Get answers. Choose confidently.
Both Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans help reduce your out-of-pocket costs, but they work very differently.
Let’s explore how each option works, side by side.
Let’s explore how each option works, side by side.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Secondary insurance that pays after Medicare—designed to cover the gaps left by Parts A & B.
- Freedom to use any doctor or hospital nationwide that accepts Medicare
- No networks or referrals required—travel with confidence
- Predictable, minimal out-of-pocket costs after your premium
- Requires separate drug plan (Part D) for prescriptions
- Monthly premium—amount varies by plan, carrier, and personal factors
- Guaranteed renewable—can never be cancelled for health or age
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Private plans that “replace” Medicare—combines A & B and often Part D, plus extra benefits.
- Usually lower premiums—some as low as $0
- Network required—must use in-network doctors for best prices (HMO/PPO)
- Set copays for each service, with annual out-of-pocket limit
- Often includes built-in drug coverage and extras (dental, vision, hearing)
- May include gym, transportation, or over-the-counter benefits
- Annual enrollment required—can change plans each year
| Medicare Supplement | Medicare Advantage | |
|---|---|---|
| Network restrictions | No networks—see any Medicare provider in the U.S. | Must use plan’s provider network (except emergencies) |
| Referrals needed? | Never—go directly to any specialist | Often needed for specialists (HMO); PPOs offer more freedom |
| Prescription drugs included? | No—add Part D plan separately | Usually included (built-in) |
| Out-of-pocket limit | No annual max; most costs covered after deductible | Annual limit (protects you from huge bills) |
| Copays/coinsurance | Minimal or none, depending on plan | Copays for most services; varies by plan |
| Monthly premium | Yes—amount varies (typically higher than Advantage) | Usually low ($0-$70 in many areas) |
| Travel coverage | Great for travelers—nationwide coverage | Mostly local (out of area = emergency only) |
| Extras (dental, vision, gym, etc.) | Not included | Often included |
| Enrollment period | Any time (if you pass health questions outside Open Enrollment) | Annual (Oct 15 – Dec 7) or certain qualifying events |
What to Consider Before Choosing
- Freedom vs. Extras: Supplements offer more doctor freedom; Advantage plans offer more extras.
- Budget: Advantage plans often have lower premiums but may mean higher bills if you use a lot of care; Supplements cost more per month but offer predictable costs.
- How you use healthcare: Frequent doctor/hospital visits? Supplement may be more cost effective. Like extras, rarely need care? Advantage may work.
- Switching: Moving from Supplement to Advantage is easy. Switching back may require answering health questions or being denied.
- Our team compares ALL options, checks your doctors, and reviews prescriptions—so you make a truly informed choice with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have both Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage?
No—you can only have one or the other, never both at the same time.
No—you can only have one or the other, never both at the same time.
When can I switch plans?
Advantage plans: Annual Enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7). Supplement: Any time, but may require health questions if not new to Medicare.
Advantage plans: Annual Enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7). Supplement: Any time, but may require health questions if not new to Medicare.
Are prescriptions covered?
Most Advantage plans include Part D. Supplements require adding a separate Part D drug plan.
Most Advantage plans include Part D. Supplements require adding a separate Part D drug plan.
What’s the out-of-pocket max?
Advantage plans have a yearly limit (protects you from huge bills). Supplements cover nearly all costs after premiums.
Advantage plans have a yearly limit (protects you from huge bills). Supplements cover nearly all costs after premiums.
Can I keep my doctor?
Supplements: See any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare. Advantage: Check network first.
Supplements: See any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare. Advantage: Check network first.
Does May River Medicare charge for help?
Never. Our plan analysis and support are always free.
Never. Our plan analysis and support are always free.
The May River Medicare Difference
- Unbiased plan comparisons
- Personal one-on-one guidance
- Streamlined enrollment support
- Annual coverage reviews
- Licensed local and nationwide advisors
- No fee—our help is always free
We make Medicare decisions simple—no pressure, no hidden fees, and support year after year.
Have questions about Medicare Advantage or Supplement? Talk to a licensed May River Medicare expert for honest, free advice:
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