Step 1: The Fork in the Road
When you first become eligible for Medicare, you have one fundamental choice — which road will you take?
Step 2: How Each Path Works
Medicare Advantage Path
Parts A & B through a Medicare-approved private plan; many plans include Part D
- ✓You receive your Part A and Part B benefits through a Medicare-approved private insurance plan — covered services are handled according to the plan's network, cost-sharing, and authorization rules
- ✓Many plans may include extra benefits that Original Medicare does not cover, such as dental, vision, or hearing. Some plans may also include other supplemental benefits. Benefits vary by plan and area
- ✓Some plans may have a $0 plan premium — though you still pay your monthly Part B premium. Premiums and costs vary by plan and area
- ⚡You may pay copays or coinsurance as you use covered medical services, up to the plan's annual out-of-pocket maximum
Medicare Supplement Path
Original Medicare + Part D + Medigap
- ✓You keep Medicare with the government — Parts A & B remain your primary coverage
- ✓Add a Part D plan for prescriptions and a Medigap policy to help pay certain out-of-pocket costs Original Medicare leaves to you
- ✓Often chosen by people who want more predictable medical cost-sharing and broad access to any provider that accepts Medicare
- ⚡Comes with a higher monthly premium — you pay for more predictable cost-sharing whether or not you use medical services that month
Step 3: Side-by-Side
The key trade-off in plain English
The Core Trade-Off
On the Advantage side, you generally pay less monthly, but may pay copays or coinsurance as you use covered services — up to the plan’s annual out-of-pocket maximum. On the Supplement side, your higher monthly premium can provide more predictable cost-sharing — a Medigap policy may help cover certain cost-sharing that Original Medicare leaves to you, whether or not you use care that month.
Step 4: Let Gregory Help You Decide
Every situation is different. The right path depends on your doctors, medications, budget, and health history — and Gregory will help you sort it all out.
Gregory Mann
Licensed Independent Broker • NPN 19675431
Licensed in 40 states. Independent — not tied to any one carrier. No pressure, no sales tactics. Just clarity.