• Plan Comparison

Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage

Deciding between Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medigap (Medicare Supplement) is a choice between lower monthly costs or more predictable medical bills. In 2026, the landscape has shifted slightly due to new out-of-pocket caps on prescription drugs.

2026 Comparison: Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap

Feature

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Medigap (Supplement)

How it Works

Replaces Original Medicare with a private, "all-in-one" bundled plan.

Works with Original Medicare to pay for your 20% coinsurance and deductibles.

Monthly Premium

Often $0 (beyond your Part B premium).

Higher premiums (typically $130–$250+ depending on age/plan).

Provider Choice

Usually restricted to a network (HMO/PPO). May need referrals for specialists.

Any doctor in the U.S. who accepts Medicare. No referrals needed.

Out-of-Pocket Costs

You pay copays for most visits until you hit the plan's MOOP limit (up to $9,250 in 2026). Read More

Near $0 for covered services once you meet the Part B deductible ($283).

Prescription Drugs

Usually included (MAPD plans).

Not included. You must buy a separate Part D plan.

Extra Benefits

Often includes Dental, Vision, Hearing, and Gym memberships.

Generally none. These must be purchased as separate private policies.

Travel Coverage

Usually limited to emergencies only when outside your plan’s local service area.

Nationwide coverage. Some plans include foreign travel emergency care.

Which One Should You Choose ?

Consider Medicare Advantage if

  • You are generally healthy
  • You want to keep your monthly fixed costs as low as possible
  • You like the convenience of having your medical, drug, dental, and vision coverage all on one card

Consider Medigap if

  • You want total freedom to choose any specialist in the country
  • You travel frequently
  • You prefer a "subscription" model where you pay more upfront but have zero surprise bills when you get sick

Important 2026 Context

Regardless of which path you choose, all Medicare beneficiaries now benefit from the $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap on covered prescription drugs starting in 2026. This significantly reduces the financial risk for those on the Medigap path who previously faced unlimited drug costs.