What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Supplement Plans?

Medicare Advantage offerings (PPO, HMO, PFFS), provided by private enterprises, present an alternative to Original Medicare, which is under the management and authority of the federal entity. Opting into a Medicare Advantage plan implies that you relinquish coverage from Original Medicare for any benefits not encompassed within your selected Medicare Advantage Plan. However, if you opt for a Medicare Advantage offering, Original Medicare’s coverage, a federal healthcare program, remains with you, safeguarding numerous medical services outside the scope of Medicare Advantage. These privately provided Medicare Advantage options extend supplementary perks and broader coverage when juxtaposed with Original Medicare. They are mandated to incorporate every service that Original Medicare guarantees, along with some extra benefits. Furthermore, Medicare Advantage offerings must adhere to the stipulations and framework established by Original Medicare and are obligated to include an adequate number of medical professionals and establishments within their networks. Moreover, it is compulsory for every Medicare Advantage scheme to incorporate a prescription medication plan (Part D) to address drug costs not included under Original Medicare. Embracing a Medicare Advantage solution means you are not safeguarded by Original Medicare for services beyond the purview of your Medicare Advantage plan. Nonetheless, if you subscribe to a Medicare Advantage package, you also retain the coverage of Original Medicare, ensuring a federal health coverage that extends to numerous services beyond those furnished by Medicare Advantage. With their privatized nature, Medicare Advantage programs deliver augmented benefits and more inclusive coverage relative to Original Medicare. They are obliged to include all medical services covered by Original Medicare plus additional offerings. These plans must comply with Original Medicare’s regulations and principles and must maintain a network that includes an adequate number of healthcare practitioners and facilities. All Medicare Advantage plans are mandated to present a Part D prescription drug plan, cushioning the cost of medications not included in Original Medicare.