Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap: What's the Real Difference?

Two of the most common paths people take after Original Medicare are Medicare Advantage and Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans. They work very differently, and understanding the basics helps you ask better questions.

Medicare Advantage

An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare, often bundling hospital, medical, and sometimes drug coverage, typically through a network of providers.

Medigap

Works alongside Original Medicare to help cover out-of-pocket costs like copays and deductibles, generally with more flexibility in choosing providers.

Neither option is automatically 'better' — the right fit depends on your health needs, budget, and how you like to access care. That's a conversation worth having one-on-one.