Should I choose Medigap or Medicare Advantage?

Original Medicare plus a Medigap supplement gives you broad provider freedom and predictable costs; Medicare Advantage bundles everything into one plan with lower premiums but network restrictions. With Medigap, you can see almost any doctor that accepts Medicare nationwide, and the supplement covers most of the gaps Medicare leaves, so out-of-pocket surprises are minimal — but you pay a monthly premium, and you'll add a separate Part D drug plan. Medicare Advantage often has low or zero premiums and may include dental, vision, and drug coverage, but you're limited to a network, need referrals, and face copays that can stack up if you get seriously ill. A crucial catch: you have a guaranteed right to buy Medigap when you first enroll, but switching from Advantage to Medigap later can require medical underwriting, and you could be denied. Choose carefully at 65 — your first choice is the easiest one to lock in.