What is the Difference Between Medicare Advantage Plan and Medicare Supplement Plan?

Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement are different types of Medicare coverage plans. Medicare Advantage combines Part A and B typically with Part D and other types of coverage. Medicare Supplement is additional coverage you can buy if you have Original Medicare Part A and B. You cannot have both at the same time.

Original Medicare, Part A and Part B, covers most health care expenses, but it does not cover everything like routine vision or dental or prescription drugs. Items not covered are an out-of-pocket expense. Because of this, many people with Medicare enroll in two types of plans to cover these gaps in coverage. There are two options used to replace or supplement Original Medicare; Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement.

Medicare Supplement insurance plans work with Original Medicare, Part A and Part B, and typically covers certain costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover. These plans aren’t standalone insurance plans, you need to remain enrolled in Part A and Part B for your hospital and medical coverage. 

Medicare Advantage is different than Medicare Supplement is that it is an alternative to Original Medicare. But don’t worry. You’re still in the Medicare program. You’ll get your Medicare benefits through your Medicare Advantage plan, instead of through the federal program, and the Medicare Advantage plan replaces your Original Medicare coverage.

In summary, Medicare Advantage combines Part A and B; Medicare Supplement is additional coverage you can buy if you have Original Medicare Part A and B; but you cannot have both at the same time.

To find out more about the difference between Medicare Advantage Plan and Medicare Supplement Plans, Call Advanced Insurance Concepts today and Jim Rooney will work with you to find the answer. Advanced Insurance Concepts works with a variety of insurance companies and all Medicare Advantage providers in Missouri and Kansas. He is licensed to sell Health, Life and Accident Insurance, so call Jim Rooney for all your insurance needs.