The #1 Medicare Mistake That Could Cost You Everything
Why 70% of new Medicare beneficiaries make the wrong choice—and it's not their fault
Understanding Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage could be the most important financial decision you make at 65
⚠️ Critical Timing Alert
Your Initial Enrollment Period is likely the ONLY time you can enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan without medical underwriting. Miss this window, and you may never get another chance—regardless of your health needs.
The Truth About Why So Many Choose Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are chosen by many beneficiaries, but not always for the right reasons. Here's what the Medicare industry doesn't want you to know:
The Commission Problem
- Medicare Advantage plans pay agents 2X more in commissions than Medicare Supplement plans
- This creates a massive financial incentive for agents and agencies to push Advantage plans
- Many beneficiaries are never even told that Medicare Supplements exist
- Some agents have been trained exclusively on Advantage plans—they literally don't know enough about Supplements to offer them
- Major Medicare companies prohibit their agents from selling Supplement plans altogether
I know this firsthand. I worked for a major Medicare company that would not allow their agents to sell Supplement plans. Those agents didn't mean to deceive you, but they did nonetheless—because they were never given the full picture to share.
The Numbers Don't Lie
Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: The Real Comparison
Both options have their place, but you deserve to know the full picture before making this critical decision.
| Feature | Medicare Supplement | Medicare Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Works WITH Original Medicare. Fills in the "gaps" | REPLACES Original Medicare. All-in-one plan |
| Monthly Premium | $125-$350+ depending on plan and age | Often $0-$50 |
| Out-of-Pocket Costs | Predictable and low - Most plans cover 100% | Can be high - Copays for every service, max $8,000+ |
| Doctor Choice | Any doctor that accepts Medicare nationwide | Limited to network - can change yearly |
| Referrals | No referrals needed | Often requires referrals |
| Pre-Authorization | Rarely required | Often required |
| Travel Coverage | Works anywhere in U.S. - many include foreign travel | Limited to network area - emergency only |
| Drug Coverage | Requires separate Part D plan | Usually included |
| Extra Benefits | None (focuses on covering medical costs) | May include dental, vision, hearing, gym |
| Switching Plans | Can change anytime - but must qualify medically | Can change during Annual Enrollment |
| Medical Underwriting | Required after Initial Period - may be declined | Not required - guaranteed issue |
| Best For | People who want predictable costs and freedom to see any doctor | Healthy people comfortable with networks and willing to trade lower premiums for higher potential costs |
Why Your Initial Enrollment Period Is So Critical
Here's the issue that most people don't discover until it's too late:
⏰ This Window Closes Forever
During your Initial Enrollment Period (3 months before, your birthday month, and 3 months after you turn 65), insurance companies CANNOT ask about your health when you apply for a Medicare Supplement.
After this window closes, they can—and will—review your entire medical history.
This means you could be denied coverage, charged higher premiums, or have conditions excluded from coverage.
The Typical Scenario That Breaks My Heart:
1. John turns 65 and meets with an agent who only sells Medicare Advantage plans
2. The agent shows John Advantage plans with $0 premiums and extra benefits like dental and vision
3. John enrolls, never hearing about Medicare Supplements
4. Two years later, John has a serious health issue and realizes the Advantage plan's limitations
5. Now John wants a Supplement plan, but... he has to go through medical underwriting
6. Because of his recent health issues, he's either denied or quoted premiums 2-3X higher than he would have paid at 65
7. John is stuck with his Advantage plan, facing potential high out-of-pocket costs and network restrictions when he needs coverage most
Don't be like John. Make an informed decision while you still have the choice.
Some Perspective: Neither Choice Is "Wrong"
Medicare Advantage plans work well for many people—especially those who:
- Are in good health and expect to stay that way
- Have limited budgets and need to minimize monthly premiums
- Don't travel much and are comfortable staying in-network
- Value extra benefits like dental, vision, and fitness programs
- Are comfortable with managed care (referrals, pre-authorizations)
The problem isn't that Advantage plans exist—it's that many beneficiaries are never given the full picture or told about their Supplement option during the critical enrollment window when they could actually qualify for one.
My goal isn't to push you toward either option. My goal is to ensure you understand BOTH options so you can make the best decision for YOUR situation.
Get Unbiased Guidance Before Your Window Closes
As an independent Medicare advisor, I'm licensed to offer both Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans from multiple carriers. I have no hidden agenda—my only goal is to help you make the best decision for your unique situation.
No pressure. No sales pitch. Just honest answers to your questions.
Cindy Bidar
Licensed Independent Medicare Advisor
Eligry LLC