Medicare Advantage Plans – Explained

Medicare Advantage Plans are often referred to as Medicare “Part C”.

A Medicare Advantage plan “replaces” original Medicare.  A private insurer provides all Part A and Part B benefits, and often prescription drug coverage (Part D), as well, all in one plan.  These plans usually require the use of doctors and hospitals within a network, as well as co-pays.

If you are considering a Medicare Advantage plan, you should consider the following:

• Medicare Advantage Plans are area specific, you have to live in the service area of the plan you would like to join.
• You must have enrolled in Medicare Part A and B.
• If you have End-Stage Renal Disease you may not be accepted into a Medicare Advantage Plan.

You are able to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan when you first become eligible for Medicare. This is your Initial Enrollment Period. You are also able to switch plans or change plans during the annual enrollment period, October 15th through December 7th.

A Medicare Advantage plan may offer additional benefits that a Medicare Supplement policy won’t offer. These include services such as dental, vision, hearing aid assistance, and even fitness programs or discounts. Not every doctor accepts Medicare Advantage plans offered in your area.

It is extremely important that you familiarize yourself with the summary of benefits, and out of network provisions.  If you are interested in exploring the benefits of the various Medicare plan types, contact a licensed insurance agent.

Our agency specializes in Medicare compatible plans, and we will be glad to assist you with getting a quote.

To find out if your doctors are in the network, and if these types of plans are right for you, CONTACT US today.