Retirement

How to Decide Between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Insurance

Navigating the Medicare space can be an arduous task. With Medicare advantage and Medicare Supplement packages covering various parts of the medical billing apparatus, it can be difficult to know what you need. This article can help you decide if either of these plans may be advantageous for your situation.

What Is a Medigap Policy?

Medicare Supplement Plans like Medigap can be a smart way to go if Original Medicare is your policy of choice. These supplemental plans are essentially private insurance options that help to cover the gaps that exist in Original Medicare like coinsurance, copays or deductibles. In order to purchase a Medigap policy, you’ll need to have Medicare Parts A and B. Combining Original Medicare with this type of supplemental plan can generally keep most medical expenses covered by insurance.

Medicare Advantage Plans Offer Flexibility

Also known as Medicare Part C, Medicare Advantage Plans have been an alternative option to Original Medicare since 2003. These plans are administered by private insurance and paid for by the government. Medicare Advantage Plans can provide for greater flexibility because they allow PPO and HMO options, opening up a greater range of services and available doctors. One drawback of this option is that premiums can vary from year-to-year because private companies determine them. When the benefits outweigh the costs, this can be disregarded, but it should be taken into consideration.

Choosing a Medicare plan that works for you can take time and research. Considering the benefits and costs that you anticipate can help you to reach a decision.