As we age, access to reliable, affordable healthcare becomes increasingly important. For seniors in the U.S., Medicare is the primary health insurance option—but it doesn’t cover everything. That’s where Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans come in, offering added protection and peace of mind.
In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans and highlight some of the best options available for seniors in 2025.
Understanding Medicare Basics
Before diving into specific plans, it’s essential to understand how Medicare works.
Original Medicare:
- Part A: Hospital insurance (covers inpatient care)
- Part B: Medical insurance (covers outpatient care, doctor visits)
While this covers many healthcare needs, it doesn’t include prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing, or coverage for extended stays in skilled nursing facilities. It also comes with deductibles and 20% coinsurance for most services.
To fill these gaps, seniors typically enroll in either:
- A Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan — a bundled, private alternative to Original Medicare
- Or a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan — which works alongside Original Medicare
Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers and combine Parts A, B, and often Part D (prescription drugs) into one plan. These plans may also include dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs.
Benefits:
- All-in-one coverage
- Low or $0 premiums (in many cases)
- Extra benefits like gym memberships, telehealth, and preventive care
- Out-of-pocket maximums (Original Medicare doesn’t have one)
Best Medicare Advantage Plans in 2025:
- Humana
- Known for its low-cost plans and strong network of providers.
- Offers extra benefits like OTC allowances, transportation, and SilverSneakers fitness.
- UnitedHealthcare (UHC)
- Partnered with AARP, UHC offers extensive national coverage.
- Includes robust virtual care, wellness incentives, and large provider networks.
- Kaiser Permanente
- Top-rated for customer satisfaction and care coordination.
- Best for seniors in regions where Kaiser operates (California, Colorado, etc.).
- Aetna
- Affordable plans with generous benefits and nationwide coverage.
- Includes dental, vision, and hearing along with strong preventive care services.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
- Offers plans under different names in various states.
- Strong coverage flexibility, especially in rural areas.
Tip: Always compare plans based on your ZIP code, as availability and benefits vary by location.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans
If you want to stick with Original Medicare but avoid high out-of-pocket costs, Medigap is a solid option. These plans cover costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Medigap plans are standardized into Plan A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N (though C and F are no longer available to new enrollees).
Best Medigap Plans for 2025:
- Plan G
- Most comprehensive option for new enrollees.
- Covers everything except the Part B deductible.
- Plan N
- Slightly lower premiums than Plan G, with minor copays for office visits and ER.
- Plan K & L
- Lower-cost plans that cover a percentage of out-of-pocket costs.
- Ideal for healthy seniors looking to save on premiums.
Top Providers for Medigap:
- Mutual of Omaha: Known for affordable premiums and excellent customer service.
- Aetna: Offers competitive rates and household discounts.
- Cigna: Strong customer satisfaction and wide availability.
- UnitedHealthcare (AARP): Largest Medigap provider, trusted name, and valuable member resources.
Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap: Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | Medicare Advantage | Medigap + Original Medicare |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premiums | Usually lower | Typically higher |
| Doctor Choice | Network-based | Any provider accepting Medicare |
| Prescription Coverage | Often included | Requires separate Part D plan |
| Out-of-Pocket Maximum | Yes | No (but costs covered by plan) |
| Extra Benefits | Yes (dental, vision, etc.) | No |
Choose Medicare Advantage if you want all-in-one coverage with extra perks and are okay with using a provider network.
Choose Medigap if you want flexibility, lower out-of-pocket costs, and don’t mind paying a higher premium.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right health insurance plan as a senior can dramatically affect your healthcare experience and finances. Take time to evaluate your health needs, medications, preferred doctors, and travel habits.
Whether you go with a comprehensive Medicare Advantage plan or a flexible Medigap policy, the key is to compare plans annually, especially during Open Enrollment (October 15 – December 7). A little research now can save you thousands—and ensure better care in the years ahead.