Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement — Which Is Right for You?
Tell us what matters most, and we'll show you which plan type is likely the better fit — plus a side-by-side breakdown of costs, coverage, and flexibility.
What Matters Most to You?
Select one or more priorities to get a personalized recommendation.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Medigap + Part D |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | $0–$50/mo (most plans) | $120–$200/mo + Part D ($15–$45/mo) |
| Deductible | Varies by plan ($0–$500) | Plan G: $240/yr (Part B deductible) |
| Doctor Choice | Network required (HMO/PPO) | Any doctor accepting Medicare |
| Out-of-Pocket Max | $3,500–$8,850/yr | Plan G: ~$240/yr then 100% covered |
| Drug Coverage | Usually included | Separate Part D plan required |
| Dental / Vision / Hearing | Often included ($0 extras) | Not included (separate policy) |
| Referrals Needed | HMO: Yes, PPO: No | No |
| Best For | Budget-conscious, want extras | Want freedom + predictable costs |
Monthly Premium
Advantage
$0–$50/mo (most plans)
Medigap + Part D
$120–$200/mo + Part D ($15–$45/mo)
Deductible
Advantage
Varies by plan ($0–$500)
Medigap + Part D
Plan G: $240/yr (Part B deductible)
Doctor Choice
Advantage
Network required (HMO/PPO)
Medigap + Part D
Any doctor accepting Medicare
Out-of-Pocket Max
Advantage
$3,500–$8,850/yr
Medigap + Part D
Plan G: ~$240/yr then 100% covered
Drug Coverage
Advantage
Usually included
Medigap + Part D
Separate Part D plan required
Dental / Vision / Hearing
Advantage
Often included ($0 extras)
Medigap + Part D
Not included (separate policy)
Referrals Needed
Advantage
HMO: Yes, PPO: No
Medigap + Part D
No
Best For
Advantage
Budget-conscious, want extras
Medigap + Part D
Want freedom + predictable costs
Important: This comparison is general guidance. Plan availability, costs, and benefits vary by county and year. A free consultation will give you exact numbers for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but timing matters. You can switch during certain enrollment periods, and in some cases you may need to pass medical underwriting for a Supplement plan. If you're within your first 12 months on a Medicare Advantage plan, you have a guaranteed-issue right to purchase a Medigap policy. After that window, approval depends on your health history. We help clients navigate this process every day.
Start with your priorities: if keeping costs low and having extra benefits (dental, vision, hearing) matters most, Medicare Advantage is often the better fit. If you want the freedom to see any doctor nationwide and prefer predictable out-of-pocket costs, a Supplement plan usually wins. Your health status, medications, and preferred doctors also play a role. A free consultation gives you exact numbers for your ZIP code.
Ohio has strong competition among Medicare Advantage carriers, which means more $0-premium plans with generous extras. For Supplements, Ohio uses attained-age rating, so premiums increase as you age — locking in a plan early (when you first turn 65) can save you thousands over time. Counties in the Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati metro areas often have the most plan options.
Get Your Personalized Plan Comparison — Free
We'll compare every plan in your county against your doctors, medications, and budget. No cost, no obligation.