[jnieman]

Originally Posted by golfing eagles

I'm glad that you found a plan that fits your needs, there can be an advantage to advantage plans, but I've just reviewed the Villages plan and like most things, it is not and cannot be a one size fits all arrangement.
I'm happy you like the docs, I only know 2 of them, but that is for 30 years and they are the best. I also doubt either of them would have agreed to participate in a second rate practice. While I cannot speak for any of their other doctors, I have had an inside look at their SYSTEM, and they are building a first class health care delivery model of the future. The developers have poured millions into this enterprise for the benefit of TV residents; no, this is NOT going to a builder for healthcare, the people running VHC know exactly what they are doing.
As far as advantage vs supplements, advantage is cheaper. UHC plan F is 173.25/month and part D another 52.70, total 225.95 or 451.90/ month for a couple (not 700+), but still adds to the cost of living substantially.
The advantage plan, however, has multiple co-pays that can wipe out the savings if you get sick. There is $275 copay for each of the first 6 hospital days. There is a 20% copay on CT/MRI, there is 20% co-pay on radiation oncology, $16 x ray, $13 lab, $30 physical therapy and the list goes on. Out of pocket costs is capped at $4500/year, but the fine prints states no all money out of pocket goes toward this cap, and I see no list of what doesn't count. You also are paying all the prescription co-pays beyond the 4500 and that can add up in a hurry
Bottom line---if you are pretty healthy, on minimal meds, and generally will only consume preventative services and the occasional short term illness/injury, the advantage plan should suit your needs. If you already have a chronic illness that could become complicated, take a lot of meds or need specialized care, I would consider the medicare supplements

Thank you to our resident TOTV doctor for spelling it all out for us. I will be helping my 95 year old mother-in-law choose a plan in the next couple of months and always thought she should have an Advantage plan. She has several illnesses and now I see that a supplement may be the way to go for her.