Whether you choose to apply for a Medicare Advantage plan vs. a Medicare Supplement insurance plan depends on your needs.

Four factors to consider when deciding whether Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement is better for you:

1. Do you prefer to have all your coverage rolled into one plan? If so, a Medicare Advantage Plan may be the way to go. Many include Part D drug coverage, as well as vision, dental, and hearing, depending on the plan.
2. Do you want financial protection from unexpected out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles, copays, and coinsurance? If yes, Medicare Supplement plans work with Original Medicare and can help cover some of the remaining out-of-pocket expenses that Original Medicare doesn’t cover.
3. Do you need a plan that provides coverage for disabilities or long term care facilities? If so, Medicare Advantage offers Special Needs Plans that provide this type of coverage.
4. Do you want the freedom to see any doctors you choose? If so, Medicare Supplement plans have no required network and you can see any doctor that accepts Medicare, even if you’re away from home or traveling. Some Medicare Advantage plans may also allow you to see doctors and hospitals that are not in the plan’s network, giving you additional freedom to choose your doctors.

Can you have a Medicare Advantage plan and a Medicare Supplement plan?

Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement are different types of Medicare coverage. You cannot have both at the same time. Medicare Advantage bundles Part A and B often with Part D and other types of coverage. Medicare Supplement is additional coverage you can buy if you have Original Medicare Part A and B.

Can you change from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement plan?

During the Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year, you are free to reconsider your Medicare coverage. If you decide you want to try a Medicare Supplement plan vs. Medicare Advantage plan, you can make that change during this period.⁴

Considering Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement? One is not better than the other. They provide different types of coverage. Finding the right fit for you depends on what kind of Medicare coverage you’re seeking, as well as your health care needs. Review all details of plans when shopping and be open to considering alternatives when your needs change.

Have more questions or want to discuss your options?

We have an expert. Call WSIG Agent Schlita Pyles at  (316) 776-0777 or email her at spyles@wheatstateinsurancegroup.com.