Is a Medicare Supplement or a Medicare Advantage Plan Better?

Which is Better – Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplements?

We get this question a lot from concerned seniors who are trying to maximize their Medicare health insurance benefits. If you are not sure what the difference is between these two options, you may want to refer to this article – Medicare Supplements vs. Medicare Advantage (Which is Best?). That article outlines the differences, but really does not tell you which is the best choice for you or a senior you may care for.

There Is Not One Best Medicare Health Plan For Everybody!

First, let me point out that our opinion is that there is not one best plan for everybody. You own good choice will depend upon your health needs, budget, and the way you like to access your health care. The area you live in will affect your choices too. This is because some plans are only sold in certain areas, and also because network provider networks may be more comprehensive in some areas than they are in others.

Compare Medicare Advantage (MA) and Medicare Supplements In Your Local Area

So you may want to start by finding out what plans are in your area. As you know, poliices and prices will vary by state, county, and even by zip code. This page has a handy only Medicare health plan quote form so you can get the information you need to compare Medicare Health Plans online - or through a phone call or email to a local professional.

Some Things To Consider About Medicare Health Plans

There are dozens of things to consider, and a qualified professoinal who represents more than one option in your area can be a big help. But here are some general considerations when you are trying to decide which type of health plan is best for you!

• Medicare Advantage (MA) plans may come with a lower monthly premium than supplements.  Some may even not require an additional premiums, and some plans even lower the Part B contribution which typically comes out of social security checks. This makes them attractive for the millions of seniors who have to be very careful with their budgets!
• On the other hand, some MA plans may have higher out of pocket maximums for covered services than supplements do. Some supplements may pay 100% of covered services that are not covered by the original Medicare system. Typically, MA plans will have deductibles and copays and some set out of pocket maximum.
• MA plans come in 3 basic flavors, which have their own advantages and disadvantages. HMO plans require the member to use a plan network for almost all coverred services. PPO plans are more flexible, but require a member to use the network to get the best coverage. In general it is much simpler to use a network because network medical providers usually handle most of the claims. Fee For Service (PFFS) plans do not use a network, but it can be confusing to make sure that the medical service providers actually accept the insurance plan and are familiar with the claims process!

If you still are not sure if a supplement or MA plan is best for you, it is probably time to chat with a local area professional who can provide multiple options and explain the pros and cons of each. There may not be one best choice for everybody, but there is probably a best choice for you!

Get Free Medicare Health Plan Quotes and find contact information for local agents and companies.

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