All-in-one Medicare coverage with extra benefits. Compare $0 premium plans with dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage.
Last updated: January 2026 | Written by licensed CT Medicare professionals
Medicare Advantage Benefits
Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap (Medicare Supplement)
Compare the two main Medicare coverage options to find what’s right for you
Both options have advantages—the best choice depends on your healthcare needs, budget, and preferences.
Types of Medicare Advantage Plans
What’s Included in Medicare Advantage?
Standard Benefits
Extra Benefits (Many Plans)
Frequently Asked Questions
Find the Best Medicare Advantage Plan for You
Free, no-obligation plan comparison from a licensed Connecticut Medicare broker.
$0 Premium Options
Many Medicare Advantage plans offer $0 monthly premiums in Connecticut.
Drug Coverage Included
Most plans include Part D prescription drug coverage in one convenient plan.
Extra Benefits
Dental, vision, hearing, fitness memberships, and transportation benefits.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum
Annual limit on what you pay, protecting you from catastrophic costs.
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Expert Answers
What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap)?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare and typically includes drug coverage and extra benefits like dental and vision, but requires using network providers. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works alongside Original Medicare, letting you see any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare, but requires a separate Part D drug plan and doesn’t include dental/vision. Medicare Advantage often has lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs when you use services.
Do Medicare Advantage plans have out-of-pocket maximums?
Yes, Medicare Advantage plans are required to have an annual out-of-pocket maximum, which limits your total spending on covered services. In 2026, the maximum out-of-pocket limit for in-network services ranges from about $3,000 to $8,500 depending on the plan. Once you reach this limit, the plan pays 100% of covered services for the rest of the year. Original Medicare with Medigap does not have an out-of-pocket maximum but offers more predictable cost-sharing.
Can you switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare?
Yes, you can switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7), the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31), or during a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify. However, if you switch back to Original Medicare and want Medigap coverage, you may face medical underwriting and could be denied or charged more based on health conditions, unless you’re in your Medigap Open Enrollment Period or have guaranteed issue rights.
When can I enroll in Medicare Advantage?
You can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period (3 months before to 3 months after turning 65), the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7), or during special enrollment periods if you qualify.
What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one alternative that combines Part A, Part B, and usually Part D. It often includes extra benefits like dental and vision, with a network of providers and an out-of-pocket maximum.
Can I keep my doctors with Medicare Advantage?
You can keep your doctors if they’re in the plan’s network. Before enrolling, we’ll help you verify that your doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies are in-network for any plan you’re considering.
What if I take expensive medications?
We’ll review your medications against each plan’s formulary and coverage tiers to find the plan with the lowest total drug costs. Some plans offer $0 copays for tier 1 generics.