Medicare 101: Advantage vs. Supplement

Medicare can feel like alphabet soup. Here's the version that actually helps you decide — without the jargon.

The four "parts" of Medicare

Part A covers hospital stays. Part B covers doctor visits and outpatient care. Together they're called Original Medicare. Part C (Medicare Advantage) is a private all-in-one alternative that bundles A, B and usually drug coverage. Part D is prescription drug coverage.

The decision that matters: Advantage or Supplement?

Medicare Advantage (Part C) bundles everything into one plan, often with a $0 monthly premium and extras like dental, vision and hearing. The trade-off: you generally use the plan's network and may need referrals.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works alongside Original Medicare to cover most of your out-of-pocket costs, and lets you see any doctor in the country that accepts Medicare — no networks. You pay a monthly premium, and you'd add a separate Part D drug plan.

A simple way to choose

If keeping your own doctors and predictable costs matters most — especially if you travel — a Supplement is often the better fit. If a low or $0 premium and extra benefits matter most, Advantage may win. The right answer depends on your doctors, medications and budget, which is exactly what a licensed broker checks for you — at no cost.

When can you enroll?

You're first eligible around your 65th birthday. After that, the Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 – December 7 each year, and certain life events can open a Special Enrollment Period.