Medicare Advantage vs. Supplement: Which Type Is Right for You?

Answer a few questions to get a personalized starting point — then talk to a licensed independent advisor who can compare the actual plans available in your ZIP code.

Created by Cindy Kowalski — an independent Medicare advisor who compares plans from multiple carriers, not just one.

Takes just 2–3 minutes • Independent advisor • No obligation

Question 1 of 11

When are you enrolling in Medicare?

Your enrollment timing affects your plan options and eligibility for certain Medigap protections.

How important is keeping your current doctors?

Medicare Advantage plans use networks, while Medigap plans let you see any doctor accepting Medicare.

How often do you travel or spend time away from home?

With Medicare Advantage, routine care is generally limited to your plan's network and service area, although emergency and urgently needed care are covered nationwide. Medigap plans work with any Medicare-accepting provider anywhere in the U.S.

Which budget approach fits you better?

Consider both monthly premiums and potential out-of-pocket costs when you need care.

How would you describe your current health?

Your health status and expected medical needs can impact which plan type works best for you.

What are your prescription drug needs?

Medicare Advantage often includes drug coverage, while Medigap requires a separate Part D plan.

How important are extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing?

Some Medicare Advantage plans include these extras, while Medigap plans typically don't. Benefit availability and scope vary by plan and location.

How do you feel about referrals and prior authorizations?

Some Medicare Advantage plans require referrals to see specialists, and many require prior authorization for certain services. Original Medicare generally has very few such requirements.

How do you feel about reviewing and potentially changing plans annually?

Medicare Advantage plan benefits, networks, and costs can change each year. Medigap plan benefits are standardized and generally remain consistent, though premiums may change.

What's your top priority in choosing a Medicare plan?

This helps us fine-tune your recommendation to what matters most to you.

Are you currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan?

This helps us give you the most relevant guidance for where you are right now.

Here's Your Personalized Starting Point

⚠️ You may have a Medicare Advantage Trial Right. If you enrolled in Medicare Advantage for the first time within the last 12 months, you may have the right to switch back to Original Medicare and enroll in a Medigap plan without medical underwriting. This is a time-sensitive option worth discussing with Cindy before your trial period closes.
🎯 What Your Answers Reveal

⚠️ But Here's What This Quiz Can't Tell You:

• Whether your specific doctors are in-network
• If your prescriptions are covered (and at what cost)
• Which actual plans are available in your ZIP code
• What the real numbers look like for YOUR situation
• If you're eligible for programs that could lower your costs

Based on Your Priorities:

    Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

    • Accepted by any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare
    • No referrals needed for specialists
    • Very few prior authorization requirements compared with Medicare Advantage
    • Highly predictable out-of-pocket costs
    • Standardized benefits that generally remain consistent from year to year
    • Works with any Medicare-accepting provider when you travel
    • Higher monthly premiums
    • Requires a separate Part D drug plan
    • No built-in dental, vision, or hearing coverage

    Medicare Advantage

    • Lower or $0 monthly plan premiums (you still pay your Medicare Part B premium)
    • Often includes prescription drug coverage
    • Many plans include dental, vision, and hearing benefits
    • Annual out-of-pocket maximum for cost protection
    • May include fitness benefits, OTC allowances, and other extras
    • Most care is provided through plan networks; PPOs may allow out-of-network care at higher cost
    • Some plans require referrals to see specialists
    • Many plans require prior authorization for certain services
    • Plan benefits, networks, and costs can change annually
    • Routine care coverage generally limited to plan's service area
    💡 The Bottom Line

    This quiz gave you a starting direction. But choosing a Medicare plan based on a quiz is like choosing a house based on "Do you prefer 2 or 3 bedrooms?"

    You wouldn't buy a house without seeing it first. Don't choose Medicare coverage without talking to an expert who can show you the actual options available in your ZIP code.

    Want to retake the quiz? No problem.

    ✓ 100% Free • Zero Cost • No Obligation Ever

    Get the Real Answer for YOUR Situation

    A quiz points you in a direction. A licensed independent advisor can actually verify your doctors, check your prescriptions, compare every plan available in your ZIP code, and make sure you're not leaving money on the table.

    Verify your doctors are in-network
    Check your actual prescription costs
    Compare every plan in your ZIP code
    Explain everything in plain English
    Find programs that may lower your costs
    Independent — not tied to any single carrier
    It costs you $0.00
    So why wouldn't you at least have the conversation?
    Share your results:

    Seriously, what do you have to lose?
    A free conversation with an independent advisor could save you thousands of dollars and prevent coverage mistakes you can't undo.

    Licensed independent advisor • Not tied to any insurance company • Why choose Eligry?

    Want to retake the quiz? No problem.

    Important Disclaimer

    This tool provides general educational guidance based on your answers and does not constitute professional insurance advice. Medicare plan selection is a complex, individualized decision that depends on your specific healthcare providers, prescription medications, local plan availability, and complete financial picture. Speaking with a licensed Medicare advisor is recommended if you'd like personalized guidance and help comparing plans available in your area. Eligry LLC recommends consulting with a licensed advisor before making any Medicare enrollment decisions.