Supplemental and Medicare Advantage. What’s the difference?

So, we just changed doctors to stay within network. Probably the best thing would be to call his office and see which advantage plans he accepts before and if we switch. It’s really confusing!

Bear with me. Once you r on Medicare a supplemental is needed to help cover the 20% Medicare doesn't pay. The Medicare Advantages combine Medicare and the supplement. Be careful, some MAs are HMOs meaning you use their doctors. Some r PPOs where you can use any doctor but if you stay in network you pay less. There are Medigaps too but don't have prescription plans. Medicare pays for part A but part B is paid by you thru ur SS check. You really need to research to see what fits you. Try your local Office of the Aging and see if they have someone who can explain all the plans to you.

Traditional Medicare (80%) + Supplement (20%) = First Option
Medicare Advantage (100%) = Second Option

Medicare Advantage often seems like the better deal, until you need medical care. With Medicare Advantage, you have to work within the Network and have limited choices of doctors, hospitals, etc. Also, once you choose Medicare Advantage, you can't EASILY go back and get a supplement program. They can require you to be medically underwritten and turn you down.

My Dad's on Medicare Advantage and Hubby is on traditional medicare + supplement. When it's my turn, I will choose traditional for as long as I can afford to.