Medicare Advantage (MA) and Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) plans include deductible and copay cost-sharing features, and typically have lower premiums than Medicare Supplement plans. In addition, individuals on an MA or MAPD plan may also receive additional benefits, such as vision, hearing, and some dental coverage.
Medicare Supplements, also referred to as Medigap plans, are exactly as they sound – they are designed to supplement and “fill the gaps” of original Medicare by paying the deductibles and coinsurance for Medicare-covered services. It is important to note that supplement coverage is secondary to Medicare and will only cover Medicare-approved services. In addition, Medicare Supplements do not provide prescription drug coverage so many individuals pair a stand-alone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) with their Medicare Supplement to help cover the costs of prescription medications. If you travel frequently, this option might be a good fit for you as this plan goes wherever you go.