When you’re looking at Medicare, it’s important to know the difference between a Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage. I want to clear up that confusion for you.
Despite some confusing terminology, it’s really quite simple. When you’re going to Medicare for coverage—not through your employer, just as an individual Medical beneficiary—your coverage will come from one of two places: Medicare or Medicare Advantage.
Coverage under Medicare
- Regular Medicare consists of Parts A and B which will provide your primary insurance coverage. When you see the doctor, go to the hospital or have surgery, the expenses will go to Medicare Parts A and B.
- The Medicare supplement called Part D provides an additional policy for your prescription drugs.
Coverage under Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage coverage is a private plan that is 100% responsible for your claims and administration. (Medicare Advantage is also called Part C.)
When you choose Medicare Advantage, Medicare is no longer insuring you. Medicare is, however, part of the controlling or regulating for these plans.
Additional Medicare Supplemental Plans
There are many choices when you are talking about Medicare supplemental plans. These choices start at Plan A and go all the way through N. It might be of benefit to look at these other supplemental plans to help you cover your medical costs. We can help you evaluate the possible benefits of these plans.
Remember, Medicare Parts A, B, and D all come from Medicare itself. When you choose Medicare Advantage, you’re in a whole different world.
If you need more information or want to look at your options and all the Medicare supplemental plans that are available, we can help. Call us at (314) 544-5400
