The Original Medicare—that’s Part A and Part B—still exists today, but on its own, it doesn’t tend to be enough for most recipients.

That’s where Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement insurance come in. The two have one defining characteristic in common—both are offered by private insurance companies. Beyond that, the two are markedly different options. When navigating this decision-making process, just remember, it pays to have the counsel of a trusted professional on hand.

In the case of Medicare Advantage plans, you get an alternative to Original Medicare. On the other hand, there are Medicare Supplement insurance plans (or Medigap) that serve to work alongside your Original Medicare coverage.

If you’re preparing to sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan, it’s best to do so only after taking the time to understand all the options available.

If you’re preparing to sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan, it’s best to do so only after taking the time to understand all the options available, as coverage and costs vary significantly. Examples of Medicare Advantage plans include HMOs, PPOs, PFFSs, MSAs, and SNPs. Finding a plan that’s compatible with your specific needs means discussing each, in detail, with an established professional.

Medicare Supplement insurance plans, also known as Medigap or MedSup, is sold through private insurance companies as well, although, it’s worth noting, it does not represent comprehensive medical coverage. Just as the name implies, Medicare Supplement acts as supplemental coverage to Original Medicare, with plans that may not include prescription drug coverage. The thing to keep in mind while learning about Medigap or MedSup (again, Medicare Supplement), is that they are lettered, as in “Plan F” or “Plan G” and they differ considerably, just as the variety of plans associated with Medicare Advantage do.

My name is Sean Kelly and I’m here to help the Buffalo community gain security and peace of mind with an insurance plan that works for them.

If you’re looking to make a decision about Medicare and you’re experiencing frustration, just remember, the right plan for you is out there and you’re ability to find it grows in direct proportion to the comprehensive understanding you’re able to gain.

That’s something I take very seriously as a Medicare Adviser—helping you find a plan that’s right for you.

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It's a good idea to have a knowledgeable expert on your side when navigating the complexities of the insurance industry.