The Difference Between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Plans in Louisiana

Understanding Medicare can feel overwhelming. With so many options, how do you know which plan is right for you? If you live in Louisiana, you might be deciding between a Medicare Advantage plan and a Medicare Supplement insurance plan. These two types of Medicare health plans serve different purposes, and choosing the right one depends on your needs. Let’s break them down so you can make an informed decision. For personalized help, contact Bourgeois Insurance at (985) 803-8999 in Thibodaux, Louisiana to explore your options.

What Is a Medicare Advantage Plan?

A Medicare Advantage plan, also called Part C, is an alternative to Original Medicare. It combines Medicare Part A and Part B into one plan. Private insurance companies approved by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services offer these plans.

What Does a Medicare Advantage Plan Cover?

Medicare Advantage plans must provide the same Medicare benefits as Original Medicare, but many plans include additional benefits. Depending on the plan, you may receive:

• Prescription drug coverage (Part D prescription drug plans)

• Dental, vision, and hearing benefits

• Wellness programs

• Transportation services

How Much Does a Medicare Advantage Plan Cost?

A Medicare Advantage plan may have a lower monthly premium than a Medicare Supplement insurance plan. However, you will likely pay copays, coinsurance, and deductibles when receiving services.

In Louisiana, the average monthly premium for a Medicare Advantage plan varies, but some plans offer $0 premium options. Popular insurance companies in Louisiana providing these plans include Aetna and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana. Currently, there are 99 Medicare Advantage plans available for Louisiana residents.

Provider Networks in Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage plans typically require you to use a network of doctors and hospitals. There are different plan types, including:

• HMO plans: Require you to see doctors within the network.

• PPO plans: Allow more flexibility but may have higher out-of-pocket costs.

If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may be limited to providers in your area. However, Medicare Advantage plans may also cover out-of-network emergencies.

What Is a Medicare Supplement Plan?

A Medicare Supplement plan, also called Medigap, helps cover out-of-pocket costs that are not covered by Original Medicare. These include:

• Copayments

• Coinsurance

• Deductibles

Private insurance companies sell these plans, and they are regulated by the Medicare program.

What Does a Medicare Supplement Plan Cover?

A Medigap plan does not replace Original Medicare. Instead, it works alongside Medicare Part A and Part B.

• Medicare Supplement insurance plans do not include prescription drug coverage, so you must enroll in a separate Part D plan if you need medications.

• These plans don’t cover everything, such as dental, vision, or hearing benefits.

Types of Medicare Supplement Plans

There are different Medigap plan types, including:

• Plan G: Covers most out-of-pocket costs except for the Medicare Part B deductible.

• Plan F: Covers all Medicare-approved costs, but is only available to those who were eligible for Medicare before 2020.

• Plan N: Has lower premiums but may include some copays.

How Much Does a Medicare Supplement Plan Cost?

A Medicare Supplement plan typically has higher premiums but may result in fewer out-of-pocket expenses.

In Louisiana, the costs associated with Original Medicare and Medigap plans depend on factors such as age and location. Several insurance companies offer coverage options in Louisiana, giving you many choices.

Provider Flexibility in Medicare Supplement Plans

Unlike Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement plans have no provider network restrictions. You can see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare nationwide. This can be a good option if you travel frequently or want more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers.

Key Differences Between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Plans

Feature

Medicare Advantage

Medicare Supplement

Purpose

Replaces Original Medicare

Works with Original Medicare

Costs

Lower premiums but may have more out-of-pocket expenses

Higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs

Extra Benefits

May include dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage

No extra benefits included

Provider Network

Requires in-network providers except in emergencies

No network restrictions—see any provider that accepts Medicare

Prescription Drug Coverage

Often included (Part D)

Requires a separate Part D plan

Choosing the Right Plan in Louisiana

When shopping for Medicare Advantage plans or Medicare Supplement insurance plans, consider:

• Your budget: Do you prefer lower monthly premiums or fewer out-of-pocket costs?

• Your health needs: Do you need extra benefits like dental and vision?

• Your provider preferences: Do you want the freedom to see any doctor who accepts Medicare?

• Your lifestyle: Do you travel often and need nationwide coverage?

Enrollment Periods

• Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: October 15 – December 7 each year.

• Medicare Supplement Enrollment: Best time to enroll is during your Medicare Part B enrollment period, as you may face medical underwriting later.

Switching Plans

If you are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan but want to switch to Original Medicare, you can do so during the Medicare Open Enrollment period. If you want to return to Original Medicare, you may also consider adding a Medicare Supplement insurance plan for additional coverage.

Conclusion

Both Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans provide valuable health insurance coverage, but they serve different purposes. If you want lower premiums and extra benefits, a Medicare Advantage plan may be the right choice. If you prefer more flexibility and fewer out-of-pocket costs, a Medicare Supplement plan might be better.

Get in Touch With Us

Before you enroll in Original Medicare or choose a type of plan, consider your needs and compare options for Medicare coverage. Whether you choose one plan or another, having the right Medicare coverage will help you stay protected in 2025 and beyond. For personalized help, contact Bourgeois Insurance at (985) 803-8999 in Thibodaux, Louisiana to explore your options.