@suznsl I’m 73, but until I was 70 I continued to work and had a group insurance policy that was really good. Before I retired I researched Advantage plans versus Medicare supplements. I had already been diagnosed with MGUS and I am diabetic, but it is very well managed by medication.
I have friends who are on advantage plans, and they work very well for them, however, they do not have chronic illness to deal with. We have many physicians locally who will not accept advantage plans so their services are out of pocket, but they have had no trouble finding physicians who do accept their insurance. I do believe that you have a lot more flexibility in choosing the right specialist, however, should you need one with a supplement. In addition to what is subtracted from my Social Security by Medicare, I pay $180 a month for my supplement. I have had zero difficulty getting any medical care that I need. After I pay my deductible, I have zero out-of-pocket.
It’s a difficult decision because when you’re on a fixed income, your out-of-pocket expenses are a significant consideration. I am well satisfied with my decision to go with a supplement, however. If I want a second opinion, or I want to travel to a Mayo facility, I can do that easily.
I hope that your decision-making process isn’t too much of a pain and you are able to choose the right option for your particular needs.