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Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)
A Comprehensive Alternative to Original Medicare
What Is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, are all-in-one alternatives to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans bundle Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) and often include additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare—like dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage.
How Do Medicare Advantage Plans Work?
Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans typically use provider networks like HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations) or PPOs (Preferred Provider Organizations). You may need to choose a primary care physician (PCP) and get referrals to see specialists, depending on the plan type.
These plans often have low or $0 monthly premiums, but you’ll still need to pay your Part B premium and possibly some cost-sharing (copays, coinsurance, and deductibles). Each plan has an annual out-of-pocket maximum (MOOP), which helps protect you from high medical costs.
What’s Included in a Medicare Advantage Plan?
While each plan varies by provider and location, most Medicare Advantage plans may offer:
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All the benefits of Original Medicare
(Parts A & B) -
Prescription drug coverage
(Part D) -
Routine dental, vision, and hearing care
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Wellness programs and gym memberships
(e.g., SilverSneakers) -
Transportation to medical appointments
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Over-the-counter (OTC) benefits for
health-related items -
Worldwide emergency coverage
Why Choose a Medicare Advantage Plan?
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More comprehensive coverage in one plan
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Budget-friendly options with $0 premiums and added benefits
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Prescription drug coverage included in most plans
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Out-of-pocket cost protection with yearly spending limits
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Coordinated care for better health outcomes
Is Medicare Advantage Right for You?
Medicare Advantage plans can be a great fit if you:
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Want additional benefits beyond Original Medicare
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Prefer predictable copays and an annual out-of-pocket cap
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Are comfortable using a provider network
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Take prescriptions regularly and want drug coverage included
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Prefer the convenience of managing all your Medicare coverage in one plan
Important Things to Consider
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Provider networks: Make sure your doctors and hospitals are in-network.
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Plan availability: Benefits and premiums vary by county and zip code.
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Drug coverage: Check that your prescriptions are covered under the plan’s formulary.
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Enrollment periods: You can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period, the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7), or during Special Enrollment Periods if you qualify.
Need Help Comparing Plans?
Understanding your Medicare Advantage options can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. As an independent Medicare broker, I offer personalized support to help you find a plan that fits your needs, preferences, and budget.
Schedule a no cost consultation
today to explore your Medicare Advantage options with expert guidance—at no cost to you.