Advice on Medicare Advantage vs Medigap

[Teacher Terry]

Here with a advantage plan it covers everything

[Rogar]

I was getting confused and had to look it up. This is what Investopedia says. I have read that many start out in an Advantage plan and then shift into a Medigap when more health issues develop.

Cost: Medigap coverage usually has a higher monthly premium, but could result in lower out-of-pocket expenses than some Medicare Advantage plans. Medicare Advantage plans, on the other hand, generally cost less and cover more services, which can be the better option for your budget.

Choice: Medicare Advantage plans generally limit you to the doctors and facilities within the HMO or PPO, and may or may not cover any out-of-network care. Traditional Medicare and Medigap policies cover you if you go to any doctor or facility that accepts Medicare. If you require particular specialists or hospitals, check whether they are covered by the plan you select.

Lifestyle: Medicare Advantage plans often only operate with a certain region. If you’re a snowbird living in more than one state throughout the year, traditional Medicare plus Medigap is probably a better choice than an Advantage plan. This may also be true if you travel frequently: Some Medigap plans provide coverage when traveling outside of the United States and cover you in all 50 states; Advantage plans generally do not.

[Teacher Terry]

Our local advantage plans don’t work in the way you describe so people should check carefully in their own area so they get the right plan for themselves.

[iris lilies]

Mom always had a gap plan. She was on SS only and she knew exactly what her healthcare would cost-just her premium. And all expenses were paid by it. That said, she died in 2007. Her premium was $168 and she liked the peace of mind it offered her. She had 2 total joints and a triple bypass with that plan over 15 years.

Don't forget about plan D. There is an accumulating penalty if you don't have it.

yes, Plan D! Thank you. I knew there was one I needed to keep an eye on.

I plan to use a local i surance broker who specializes in Medicare.