As you approach the golden years of retirement, that all-too-important decision looms: How will you handle your insurance coverage?
Trying to navigate the specifics around Medicare is a challenge. The various parts, supplemental coverages, and fine print can leave your head spinning – and a visit to the hospital without the right coverage can be devastating.
At All Insurance Community, we spend a lot of our time helping clients understand two common – but fundamentally different – coverage options: Medicare Supplement plans (also called Medigap) and Medicare Advantage.
What are they – and how do they differ? Let’s look at both options and how you can find the right coverage for you.
Want to learn more about Medicare and how to find the best coverage for you? Chat with our team today and build your custom coverage quote to give you peace of mind.
What is Medicare Supplement Insurance?
Medicare Supplement insurance – also known as Medigap – is coverage that works alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B) to fill the “gaps” in coverage. These standardized plans, labeled with letters (like Plan G or Plan N), help cover costs such as:
- Your Part A hospital deductible ($1,676 in 2025)
- Your 20% coinsurance for medical services
- Copayments for hospital stays and skilled nursing facilities
- Some plans even cover emergency medical care when traveling internationally
Supplemental Medicare insurance allows you to see any doctor or specialist nationwide who accepts Medicare – with no referrals necessary. This flexibility is key, especially if you have complex health needs or travel frequently.
How Medicare Advantage Differs
Medicare Advantage (Part C) takes a completely different approach. Rather than supplementing Original Medicare, these plans replace it entirely.
Here are the main differences with Medicare Advantage:
- Coverage comes through private insurance companies contracted with Medicare
- You typically must use network providers and may need referrals
- Many plans include prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- Plans often offer additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as dental, vision, and hearing
- Monthly premiums are often lower (sometimes $0), but out-of-pocket costs may be higher when you receive care
Which Is Right For You?
When helping our clients choose between Medicare Supplement plans and Medicare Advantage, we start with you.
That means looking at your specific lifestyle, personal preferences, health needs, and more. When you know what you need in coverage, you can better choose an option that fits your needs today and in the future.
You May Consider Medigap if you value:
- Maximum provider flexibility and choice
- Predictable out-of-pocket costs
- The ability to see specialists without referrals
- Coverage that travels with you nationwide
- Peace of mind knowing most medical bills will be covered
You’ll Want To Consider Medicare Advantage if you prefer:
- Lower monthly premiums
- All-in-one coverage including prescription drugs
- Additional benefits beyond Original Medicare
- Managed care with a primary doctor coordinating your care
- Potentially lower costs if you stay healthy and within network
Get Expert Guidance With Medicare Experts
As an independent agency helping Palm Beach County residents, All Insurance Community is your go-to expert in all things Medicare.
Best of all, we work fast – because the best time to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan is during your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period (A period starting the month you’re 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B).
After this period, you may have to answer health questions and could be denied coverage or charged higher premiums based on pre-existing conditions. That’s why having a partner who can analyze your unique healthcare needs, budget, and preferences matters.
Want to learn more? Chat with one of our independent brokers today to find the right coverage for you. Get peace of mind when it comes to your insurance – so you can live the life you’ve always dreamed of.