Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement

Choosing between a Medicare Advantage plan and a Supplement plan (Medigap)

Original Medicare Parts A and B provide important health care coverage but don’t cover everything. Original Medicare does not cover most prescription drugs, dental care, vision care, hearing aids, or gym memberships. It also doesn’t include travel coverage or extra benefits that can help you live healthier and stay independent. In addition, you have to pay deductibles and copays for your care with no annual limit on your out-of-pocket costs.

That’s why most people choose additional Medicare coverage to help fill these gaps. The two most common forms of Medicare coverage are Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) and Supplement plans (Medigap). Compare these options below to see which one is best for you.

Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage plans

Ready to learn about UPMC for Life Medicare Advantage plans?

UPMC for Life is a Medicare Advantage plan available in your area. Our members have access to UPMC and a large network of additional doctors and hospitals in your community. We want to make sure you have all the resources you need to live your best life. That’s why we offer additional benefits and services that give you more than Original Medicare. Learn more about UPMC for Life Medicare Advantage plans.

Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage plans: Frequently asked questions

Next Steps

 

Shop for Medicare Plans

Find a UPMC for Life Medicare plan that best fits your needs.

Request a Free Information Kit

Request a free information kit to learn about UPMC for Life plans and coverage options.

Contact Us

We can answer questions and help you choose a Medicare plan that's right for you.

Contact us

UPMC for Life Members
Call us toll-free: 1-877-539-3080 (TTY: 711)

Oct. 1 – March 31: 
Seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 
 
April 1 – Sept. 30: 
Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

UPMC for Life Prospective Members
Call us toll-free: 1-866-400-5077 (TTY: 711)
Oct. 1 – March 31: 
Seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 
 
April 1 – Sept. 30: 
Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This information is not a complete description of benefits. Call 1-866-400-5077 (TTY: 711) for more information. Out-of-network/Noncontracted providers are under no obligation to treat UPMC for Life members, except in emergency situations. Please call our customer service number or see your Evidence of Coverage for more information, including the cost sharing that applies to out-of-network services. Other physicians/providers are available in the UPMC for Life network.

This information is available for free in other languages. Please call our customer service number at 1-877-539-3080 (TTY: 711).

UPMC for Life has a contract with Medicare to provide HMO, HMO D-SNP, and PPO plans. The HMO D-SNP plans have a contract with the PA State Medical Assistance program. Enrollment in UPMC for Life depends on contract renewal. UPMC for Life is a product of and operated by UPMC Health Plan Inc., UPMC Health Network Inc., UPMC Health Benefits Inc., UPMC for You Inc., and UPMC Health Coverage Inc.

SilverSneakers is a registered trademark of Tivity Health Inc. SilverSneakers GO is a trademark of Tivity Health Inc. © 2024 Tivity Health Inc. All rights reserved.

UPMC for Life Members
Call us toll-free: 1-877-539-3080
TTY: 711

Oct. 1 – March 31:
Seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

April 1 – Sept. 30:
Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

UPMC for Life Prospective Members
Call us toll-free: 1-866-400-5077
TTY: 711

Oct. 1 – March 31:
Seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

April 1 – Sept. 30:
Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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Last Updated: 10/01/2024