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Medicare Advantage bundles your coverage into one private plan, often with extra benefits and a network, and caps your out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works alongside Original Medicare to pay costs it leaves behind and lets you see any provider that accepts Medicare. You can't use both at the same time.
A Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that bundles Parts A and B — and usually Part D drug coverage — together.
These plans often include extras like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness benefits, and every plan caps your annual out-of-pocket spending. In return, you generally use a provider network and may need referrals to see specialists.
A Medigap plan works alongside Original Medicare, helping pay the deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance that Original Medicare leaves behind.
Medigap plans are standardized by the federal government, so a Plan G from one carrier offers the same core benefits as a Plan G from another — what changes is the premium. With Medigap you keep the freedom to see any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare, but you'll add a separate Part D plan for drug coverage.
No. Medigap is designed to supplement Original Medicare, not Medicare Advantage, so you can't use them together.
Choosing your path is really a choice between two systems: Original Medicare plus Medigap (and Part D), or a Medicare Advantage plan. We help you weigh them side by side.
Medicare Advantage can appeal to people who want lower premiums, extra benefits, and an out-of-pocket cap, and who are comfortable using a network. Medigap can appeal to people who want maximum provider freedom and more predictable costs, and who don't mind a higher monthly premium.
Your doctors, medications, travel habits, and budget all factor in. There's no universally better choice — only the one that fits your situation best.
| Feature | Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Medicare Supplement (Medigap) |
|---|---|---|
| Provider access | Plan network (HMO/PPO) | Any provider that accepts Medicare |
| Monthly premium | Often lower; some plans have no separate premium | Higher, in addition to your Part B premium |
| Out-of-pocket limit | Yes, capped each year | Very predictable; Medigap covers most gaps |
| Prescription drugs | Usually built in | Add a standalone Part D plan |
| Extra benefits | Often dental, vision, hearing, fitness | Not included; focuses on cost-sharing |
| Referrals/networks | May require referrals | No networks or referrals |
Betsy is a licensed local broker who can walk you through your options with no pressure — and no cost.
Request a No-Cost ConsultationThe questions people ask us most — answered in plain English.
Neither is better for everyone. Medigap offers more provider freedom and predictable costs for a higher premium, while Medicare Advantage offers lower premiums, extra benefits, and an out-of-pocket cap in exchange for using a network. The right choice depends on your needs.
No. Medigap only works alongside Original Medicare, not Medicare Advantage. You choose one path or the other, and we help you compare them.
Sometimes, but it depends on timing and medical underwriting rules that vary by situation. Switching isn't always guaranteed, so it's worth understanding your options before you enroll. We can walk you through it.
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Simply Insurance helps people in Castle Pines, Castle Rock, the South Denver metro area, and across Colorado compare Medicare Advantage options, provider networks, prescription drug coverage, and enrollment next steps.
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