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Medigap |
Medicare Advantage |
How it relates to Original Medicare Parts A & B |
Private supplemental coverage that pays all or most Part A & B deductibles and co-insurance. |
Private health plan that provides Part A & B benefits directly in place of Original Medicare. |
Premium |
Average of about $150 to $200 a month. Can vary by age, health history, or both.
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$0 to more than $100 a month depending on the plan. All plan enrollees pay the same regardless of age or health history. |
Out-of-pocket costs |
Low to none (not counting premium). |
In-network medical deductibles and copays of up to $3,400 to $6,700 a year, depending on the plan. |
Choice of doctors and hospitals |
Any that participate in Medicare. |
HMOs: Plan providers only. PPOs: Any provider, but out-of-network providers cost more. |
When you can buy |
First six months after you sign up for Part B and are at least 65 years old. After that, in most states you can be turned down or charged extra for pre-existing conditions. |
When you first enroll in both Medicare A and B and annually thereafter during Open Enrollment (Oct. 15-Dec. 7). |
Part D (drug) coverage |
Not ibncluded. You must buy a separate Part D plan for this. |
Most plans include a Part D add-on. If not you can buy a separate plan. |
Quality information available |
No. |
Yes. Medicare.gov has star ratings (5 stars are the best). Consumer Reports has Medicare Advantage quality rankings from NCQA. |
Cards in your purse or wallet |
Three. 1. Red, white, and blue Medicare card. 2. Medigap card. 3. Part D card. |
Usually just one Medicare Advantage card (two if you have a standalone drug plan). Red, white, and blue Medicare card can stay in your desk drawer. |
Paperwork |
Little to none. Medigap almost always automatically cuts a check to providers after Medicare pays its share. |
Some, because you pay deductibles and copays directly to providers. |
