Comparing Medicare Advantage vs Medicare Supplement
Some Medicare Advantage plans are providing richer benefits than in the past, and they are becoming more popular every year. These plans may or may not work better for you, depending on your health and/or financial situation.
With Medicare Advantage there may be anywhere from around $3000 to $7500 maximum limit per year out of pocket for co-pays and co-insurance. You could have co-pays for Doctor visits, tests, procedures, etc., and possibly co-pays per stay or per day if you have to be hospitalized. However, depending on where you live, you may not have to pay a monthly premium ($0).
When Medicare Advantage Might Be A Good Choice
If you are healthy and don’t visit the doctor very often then the Medicare Advantage plan may work very well for you. Most plans have the Rx Drug plan built in, and sometimes there are extra benefits such as Dental, Vision, Fitness memberships, and Over the Counter item benefits.
There are Networks, so you will need to make sure your doctors accept the plan in order to get the lowest costs for services. Some plans won’t cover you if you go out of Network.
If You Want Predictability With Your Costs And Coverage
If you would rather have a predictable monthly cost and all, or most everything covered if you get sick, then a Medicare Supplement would be your best option if it fits within your budget. There are no Networks.
You can see ANY doctor or provider nationwide who accepts Medicare. Your Supplement will be accepted and it does not matter which carrier you have the policy through. Medicare pays the 80% and the Supplement picks up 20%, less deductible or co pay, depending on which plan you have.
Prescription Drug Coverage And Medicare Supplement Plans
You would need to pick up a Part D Prescription Drug plan as a stand alone policy. This is not included in the Medicare Supplement plans. There would be an additional premium for this Plan. However, there is an assistance program called Extra Help with Part D through Social Security. This program is for individuals with lower income levels and helps reduce Part D costs significantly.
- Important – You still have to keep paying for your monthly Medicare Part B premium. This applies whether you have Medicare Advantage or a Medicare Supplement.
We offer both types of plans, so we can guide you to the right choice of plan for your specific needs.
There are assistance Programs such as the Medicare Savings Program which is available for lower income individuals. These programs help pay for the Medicare Part B monthly premium and also Extra Help for Part D medications. Call us for more details on these programs to see if you might qualify.
Let us help you find the best plan for your situation. Our service is 100% FREE. To contact us please call (800) 783-5901 or send an email to Info@usamedicareplan.com
