Imagine you’re retiring and watching your budget. A Medicare Advantage plan with no additional monthly premium catches your attention. You generally still pay your Medicare Part B premium. Most Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage.
Then you need several specialists or ongoing treatment. Depending on the plan, copays, deductibles and your share of treatment costs can add up. There is an annual limit for covered Part A and Part B medical expenses, but premiums and prescription drugs are counted separately.
Another option is Original Medicare with a supplement called Medigap. You pay an additional monthly premium to help make your share of covered medical bills more predictable. It does not cover everything, and prescription drug coverage is separate.
“Can I choose Advantage now and buy a supplement if I get sick?”
Don’t assume you can.
Your first protected Medigap enrollment period lasts six months, starting the first month you are 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. During that time, an insurer cannot turn you down or charge you more because of your health.
Later, the insurer may review your health and reject your application. Some situations and state rules give you another protected opportunity, so check before deciding.
That protection against rejection because of your health is what “guaranteed issue” means.
Think beyond today’s monthly payment. Consider your doctors, medicines, current health and the care you may need later. Could you afford a supplement now and over time? Medigap is generally guaranteed renewable if you pay your premiums, even if your health changes, but premiums can rise.
Before choosing, ask two questions: What could I pay if I get sick? And could I change coverage later?
Health & Harmony can help you understand both.
Official sources
- Medicare: Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage compared
- Medicare: When to buy Medigap and enrollment protections
- Medicare: How Medigap works
- Maryland Insurance Administration: Medicare supplement FAQs
Sources checked October 25, 2026.