Choosing your health care in retirement is a big decision, and not an easy one. One topic of confusion for people is if they should choose a Medicare Advantage plan or stick with Original Medicare and pick up a Medicare Supplement plan.
Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement Comparison
Here are some things to help you decide if Medicare Supplement is a smart choice for you.
Medicare Supplement | Medicare Advantage | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Doctor and Hospital Choice | You can use any doctor or hospital that takes Medicare, anywhere in the U.S. This means if you are traveling and need care, you’re covered. In most cases, you don’t need a referral to use a specialist. | In many cases, you can only use doctors and other providers who are in the plan’s network and service area (for non-emergency care). You may need to get a referral to use a specialist. | ||
Cost | You pay a premium. Medicare Supplement plans generally help pay the gaps in your Medicare coverage. | |||
Coverage | In most cases, you don’t have to get a service or supply approved ahead of time. You can choose your own Medicare drug coverage (Part D) to suit your needs. | In many cases, you may need to get approval from your plan before it covers certain drugs or services. Many include Medicare drug coverage, which is standardized for everyone in the plan. | ||
If you choose Medicare Supplement, you may pay a little more in premiums but gain the ability to choose your own:*
doctors
specialists
prescription drug coverage
*With a Medicare Supplement, you can receive treatment from any Medicare-approved doctor or specialist.
1. “What You’ll Pay in Out-of-Pocket Medicare Costs in 2024”, National Council on Aging, 10/13/23.
