Medigap and Medicare Advantage are different choices.

Medigap is supplemental insurance used with Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage is another way to receive Medicare benefits. Do not treat Medigap as a policy that pays Medicare Advantage copayments.

Compare these as different arrangements, including premiums, provider access, prescription coverage and existing military-related benefits.

The federal six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period starts in the first month a person is both 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. Outside that period, access may depend on guaranteed-issue rights or insurer rules.

States can provide additional protections. Medicare advises checking with the state insurance department. Do not assume that leaving a policy now means you can buy it back later on the same terms.

A person with TFL or CHAMPVA may already have a program that pays after Medicare for covered services. That calls for a different review from one for a veteran relying only on VA health care.

Confirm the actual program, covered services and costs. Then compare what an additional premium would purchase instead of assuming every veteran needs the same supplement.