If you’re approaching Medicare eligibility or reviewing your coverage during Medicare Annual Enrollment 2026, you may find yourself faced with one of the most important decisions: Should you choose a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) or a Medicare Supplement Plan (Medigap)?

Both options offer valuable coverage, but the right choice depends on your health needs, lifestyle, and budget. At Loman-Ray Insurance Group, we help individuals across Central Illinois compare plans side by side to make confident, informed decisions.

What Is Medicare Advantage (Part C)?

Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They combine your Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) into a single plan, often with added benefits.

Key Features of Medicare Advantage:

• All-in-one coverage (hospital, medical, sometimes prescription drugs).

• May include extras like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness benefits.

• Typically have lower monthly premiums, but you’ll pay copays and coinsurance as you use services.

• Requires using doctors and hospitals within the plan’s network.

Best fit for: Individuals who want bundled coverage, are comfortable using a provider network, and prefer lower monthly premiums.

What Is a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan?

Medicare Supplement Plans, also known as Medigap, work alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B). They don’t replace Medicare but instead fill in the “gaps”, helping cover deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

Key Features of Medicare Supplements:

• Broad access to doctors and hospitals nationwide, no network restrictions.

• Higher monthly premiums but predictable out-of-pocket costs.

• Prescription drug coverage is not included, you may need a separate Part D plan.

• Designed for people who want peace of mind and flexibility when seeking care.

Best fit for: Individuals who travel often, want freedom to choose providers, and prefer predictable healthcare costs.

Comparing Costs: Premiums vs. Out-of-Pocket

• Medicare Advantage often has lower monthly premiums, but costs add up through copays, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums.

• Medicare Supplements have higher monthly premiums, but they cover most out-of-pocket expenses, offering more stability in annual healthcare costs.

Example:

• A Medicare Advantage plan may cost $0–$40/month but include $40 copays for doctor visits and higher hospital stay costs.

• A Medicare Supplement plan may cost $100–$200/month but cover nearly all deductibles and copays.

Lifestyle Considerations

When deciding between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplements, think about your daily life and long-term health needs:

• Do you travel frequently?
  Medicare Supplements are better since they work nationwide.

• Do you want added perks like dental or vision?
  Medicare Advantage often includes these extras.

• Do you prefer predictable costs?
  Medicare Supplements offer more stability.

• Are you comfortable with provider networks?
  Medicare Advantage plans require staying in-network for lower costs.

When Can You Enroll?

• Medicare Advantage: You can enroll or switch plans during Medicare Annual Enrollment (October 15 – December 7).

• Medicare Supplements: The best time to enroll is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which starts when you’re first eligible for Medicare Part B. You can apply later, but acceptance may depend on health underwriting in some cases.

How Loman-Ray Can Help You Decide

At Loman-Ray Insurance Group, we know that no two people are the same, and neither are their Medicare needs. That’s why we:

• Offer both Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement options.

• Provide personalized comparisons based on your doctors, prescriptions, and budget.

• Explain the details in clear, simple language so you feel confident in your choice.

Whether you want the bundled convenience of a Medicare Advantage Plan or the flexibility and peace of mind of a Medicare Supplement, our local team is here to guide you every step of the way.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement question. The best plan is the one that fits your health needs, lifestyle, and budget.

Contact your local Loman-Ray office today to schedule a Medicare review. Let us help you find the right plan before the December 7 enrollment deadline.