The comparison
What matters most to you?
How coverage works
Medicare Advantage
Your benefits through a private plan.
Medicare-approved private plan
Out-of-pocket costs
Compare the plan’s premiums and what you pay when you use care.
Prescription drugs
Part D is usually included.
Medicare Supplement
Extra insurance alongside Original Medicare.
Original Medicare
Out-of-pocket costs
Supplement / Medigap helps pay certain out-of-pocket costs.
Prescription drugs
Consider a separate Part D plan.
Doctors and hospitals
Networks and service areas can apply. Check the exact plan.
You can generally use providers that accept Medicare. Confirm provider acceptance and costs.
Prescription coverage
Most plans include Part D; verify the details.
Modern Medigap policies do not include Part D; consider a separate drug plan.
Costs to compare
Premiums, copayments, coinsurance, and the plan’s annual limit for covered Medicare services.
Part B and Medigap premiums, prescription coverage, and any costs your policy does not cover.
When you can change
Enrollment periods and qualifying events govern when changes are allowed.
Medigap enrollment protections differ; underwriting and state rules may affect later applications.
Medicare Supplement plans
Considering a Supplement?
Plan G.
Helps with most Original Medicare cost sharing. You pay the Part B deductible.
Plan N.
Like Plan G, you pay the Part B deductible. You also pay some office and emergency-room copayments. Plan N does not cover Part B excess charges.
Both have premiums and coverage limits. Standardized benefits differ in some states. Compare actual policies before choosing.
Sources & further reading
When you want to go deeper
A few more details.
Referrals and care approvals
Original Medicare generally does not require a referral to see a specialist. Medicare Advantage plans can have referral and prior-authorization rules. Check the particular service and plan.
Travel and time away
Original Medicare can generally be used with participating providers across the U.S. Medicare Advantage routine care may depend on your network and service area. Emergency coverage and coverage outside the U.S. require a separate check.
Dental, vision, and hearing
Some Medicare Advantage plans offer additional benefits. Original Medicare and Medigap do not generally cover routine dental, vision, or hearing services. Check benefits, allowances, provider rules, and separate options.
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