Reasons to pick Medigap over Medicare Advantage

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• Freedom of provider choice:  With Medigap, you keep Original Medicare and can see any doctor or visit any hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans often restrict you to a specific network of providers.

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• Predictable costs:  Medigap plans have higher monthly premiums but offer low, or even zero, out-of-pocket costs when you receive care. This can be a financial lifesaver if you experience a severe illness or have a chronic condition that requires frequent care.

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• No referrals needed:  You can visit specialists without first obtaining a referral from a primary care doctor, saving both time and money.

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• Travel coverage:  Many Medigap plans provide coverage for foreign travel emergencies, a benefit rarely included with Medicare Advantage.

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• Guaranteed renewability:  As long as you pay your premiums, your Medigap policy is guaranteed renewable for life. Medicare Advantage plans can change their benefits and networks annually. 

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    Reasons to pick Medicare Advantage over Medigap

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• Lower premiums: Many Medicare Advantage plans offer low or $0 monthly premiums beyond your standard Part B premium. This can be appealing if you are on a fixed income or have limited health care needs.

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• Out-of-pocket maximum: Unlike Original Medicare (with or without Medigap), all Medicare Advantage plans have an annual out-of-pocket maximum. Once you reach this limit, your plan pays 100% of covered services for the rest of the year, protecting you from unlimited costs.

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• Bundled benefits:  Most Medicare Advantage plans bundle all your coverage—Parts A, B, and D—into a single plan. They often include extra benefits like vision, dental, and hearing services, which Medigap does not cover.

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• Lower upfront costs:  While the potential for higher total costs exists if you require extensive care, Medicare Advantage provides more budget-friendly upfront options for those who use fewer medical services.  

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  How to decide

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 Your choice depends on your priorities:

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• Choose Medigap if:  You prefer flexibility and predictability. Medigap is often a better fit for those who want the freedom to choose any doctor or hospital, travel frequently, or need to manage chronic conditions without worrying about network restrictions or high out-of-pocket costs for every visit.

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• Choose Medicare Advantage if:  You are seeking lower premiums and extra benefits. This option is better for those who are budget-conscious, primarily use doctors within a certain network, and want their medical and prescription coverage bundled into one convenient plan. 

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