Medicare Advantage vs Traditional Medicare

Learn the Difference Between the Two Plan Types

Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage is a type of health plan offered by private companies that provides an alternative to Traditional Medicare. These plans often include additional benefits such as dental, vision, and hearing coverage, and may require you to get approval before it covers certain drugs or services.

Traditional Medicare

Medicare includes both hospital and medical insurance and allows you to use any doctor or hospital that takes Medicare anywhere in the US. In most cases you don’t need a referral to see a specialist or prior approval to cover your medical services and supplies.

Here’s Why Many Patients Are Choosing Traditional Medicare Instead

Freedom to Choose Your Doctor

Traditional Medicare is accepted by nearly every doctor and hospital in the United States — including specialists like retina physicians. With Medicare Advantage, you’re often limited to a smaller network and may need referrals or prior approvals before receiving care.

Traditional Medicare gives you the freedom to see the specialists you trust, when you need them.

No Hidden Treatment Restrictions

Many patients with ongoing or complex eye conditions have found Medicare Advantage plans can delay or restrict care due to insurer approvals. Traditional Medicare allows your physician to decide what’s medically necessary—not an insurance company.

Your care decisions stay between you and your doctor.

Predictable Costs and Simpler Coverage

While some Medicare Advantage plans advertise low monthly premiums, they often come with high co-pays and out-of-pocket costs when you need care. Traditional Medicare with a Medigap (Supplemental) plan can mean:

Consistent monthly costs
No surprise bills
Coverage that travels with you anywhere in the U.S.
Peace of mind and fewer surprises.