At 65, you pick a lane. Medicare Advantage bundles everything under one private plan, often with extra perks and a low premium. Original Medicare + Medigap costs more upfront but lets you go to almost any provider in the country.
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Original Medicare + Medigap | |
|---|---|---|
| Premium | Often $0 | Medicare Part B premium + Medigap premium ($150-$300+/month) |
| Provider network | Restricted (HMO/PPO) | Almost any US provider accepting Medicare |
| Prior authorization | Common for big-ticket care | Rare |
| Out-of-pocket max | Yes (annual cap) | No cap on Original Medicare; Medigap covers most |
| Extra benefits (dental, vision, hearing, gym) | Often included | Not included; buy separately |
| Travel coverage | Limited; emergency only out of network | Nationwide; some plans cover foreign travel |
| Switching back later | Hard — Medigap underwriting can deny you for health | Easy |
| Best for | Healthy 65-year-olds, want low monthly cost | People who travel, see specialists, or expect heavy care |
Tell us what's going on. We'll help you sort the right next move — without the sales pitch.
Get a real opinionTechnically yes, during open enrollment. Practically — Medigap insurers can underwrite you for health and decline. The window to choose without underwriting is the six months after you turn 65.
Maybe. Networks change every year. Confirm before enrolling and re-confirm every fall.
Sometimes a lot. Some plans cover hearing aids, dental implants, and limited home care. Others advertise benefits with tiny utilization caps. Read the Evidence of Coverage, not the brochure.