It's the most common Medicare question I get in Arizona: should I take a Medicare Advantage plan, or stick with Original Medicare and add a Medigap plan? Here's how to think about it.
The quick version
Medicare Advantage bundles everything into one private plan — often with a $0 or low premium and extras like dental, vision, and drug coverage — in exchange for using a network and paying copays as you go. Medigap keeps you on Original Medicare and pays most of the costs it leaves behind, so you can see any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare, for a higher monthly premium plus a separate Part D plan.
Medicare Advantage may fit if you...
- Like a low or $0 monthly premium and don't mind copays when you get care.
- Want dental, vision, hearing, and drug coverage bundled together.
- Are comfortable using a plan's network of local doctors and hospitals.
- Mostly get care here in Arizona.
A Medigap plan may fit if you...
- Want to see any doctor or specialist that accepts Medicare, with no network.
- Travel often or live in two states and want coverage that goes with you.
- Prefer predictable costs and minimal surprise bills, and don't mind a higher premium.
- Are willing to add a separate Part D drug plan.
What it really comes down to
Advantage trades a lower premium for copays and a network; Medigap trades a higher premium for freedom and predictability. There's no universally "better" choice — it depends on your health, your doctors, your prescriptions, your travel, and your comfort with risk.
The smartest first step is to check your specific doctors and medications against the actual plans available at your address. That's exactly what I do, free. Call 480-845-0246 and we'll compare them together.
Heads up: in most cases you can switch from Advantage, but moving to a Medigap plan later can require medical underwriting. It's worth getting the first choice right — another reason to talk it through.
Frequently asked
Can I have both Medicare Advantage and a Medigap plan?
No. Medigap only works with Original Medicare, not with a Medicare Advantage plan. You choose one path.
Is Medicare Advantage cheaper?
The premium is usually lower (often $0), but you pay copays and coinsurance as you use care, up to a yearly out-of-pocket maximum. Medigap costs more monthly but covers most of those costs. Total cost depends on how much care you use.
Do I still pay the Part B premium with Medicare Advantage?
Yes. You keep paying the standard Part B premium ($202.90/mo in 2026) with either choice.