If you’ve started researching Medicare, you’ve likely come across two major options: Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (also known as Medigap) plans.
At first glance, they may seem similar—they both help cover healthcare costs in retirement. But the differences between them are significant, and choosing the wrong path can lead to frustration, higher out-of-pocket costs, or limited access to care.
This post will walk you through the key differences so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Option 1: Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D (Supplement Path)
This option starts with Original Medicare (Parts A & B) and builds around it:
- You add a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to help pay for what Original Medicare doesn’t cover (like deductibles, coinsurance, and copays)
- You add a standalone Part D drug plan
What you get:
- Freedom to see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare nationwide
- Predictable costs, especially with higher-level Medigap plans like Plan G
- Fewer restrictions—no network, no referrals, and no prior authorizations in most cases
- You pay a monthly premium for Medigap and Part D, but your out-of-pocket costs during the year are typically lower and more predictable
What to consider:
- Medigap plans often have higher monthly premiums
- You need to buy a Part D drug plan separately
- You may need to pass medical underwriting if you switch plans later
Option 2: Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage plans are private plans that replace Original Medicare. They include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D—all in one plan.
What you get:
- Often $0 or low monthly premiums
- All-in-one coverage, including drug benefits
- May include extras like dental, vision, hearing, or gym memberships
- Annual out-of-pocket max to protect against very high costs
What to consider:
- You typically have to use a local provider network
- You may need referrals or prior authorizations for care
- Coverage and copays can vary widely between plans
- Plans can change each year, so you’ll need to review them annually
- If you want to switch to a Medigap plan later, you may face medical underwriting
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Medicare Supplement | Medicare Advantage |
| Monthly Premium | Higher | Often Low or $0 |
| Doctor Choice | Any doctor accepting Medicare | In-network providers only |
| Referrals Required | No | Often Yes |
| Drug Coverage | Separate Part D required | Usually included |
| Out-of-Pocket Predictability | High | Varies by plan |
| Travel Coverage | Nationwide | Local/regional |
| Plan Stability | Stays the same year-to-year | Can change annually |
| Underwriting Required? | Sometimes, if switching later | No |
So, Which One Is Better?
That depends entirely on your healthcare needs, budget, and preferences.
Choose Medigap if you want flexibility, predictability, and low surprise costs.
Choose Medicare Advantage if you’re comfortable with networks and want lower premiums with more bundled benefits.
Still not sure? That’s where guidance from a licensed, independent Medicare agent can make all the difference. We help people compare these options every day—and explain the trade-offs in plain language, not fine print.
Need Help Choosing Between Medicare Advantage and Medigap?
We get it—this is one of the biggest Medicare decisions you’ll make. At Brickhouse, we work with many major carriers and walk you through both options objectively.
Our only job is helping you make a smart choice, based on your healthcare needs and your budget.
Schedule a free consultation with Niki or a member of our team. There’s no cost and no obligation to enroll.
Written by Niki Feret
Licensed Independent Medicare Insurance Agent
Founder, Brickhouse Agency & Chicagoland Medicare
As a female agency owner in a space that’s often dominated by call centers and cookie-cutter advice, I started Brickhouse to do things differently.
We’re a boutique Medicare agency—real people helping real people. No scripts, no pressure, and no one-size-fits-all recommendations. Just thoughtful, personalized guidance that helps you make confident Medicare decisions. If you’re ready to feel supported—not sold—
Schedule a free consultation here. There’s no cost and no obligation to enroll. Ever.