Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, are an alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies.
These plans combine Medicare Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) into one plan and often include additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage (Part D), dental, vision, hearing, wellness programs, and more.
When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you still have Medicare coverage. However, your healthcare services are managed through a private insurance plan, which may include provider networks, copays, and plan-specific benefits.
Types of Medicare
Advantage Plans
HMO
Use in-network doctors and hospitals, except in emergencies.
PPO
Use in-network or out-of-network providers, often at a higher cost..
SNP
For people with specific conditions,
on Medicare and Medicaid, or in
certain care facilities.
Benefits of Medicare Advantage Plans
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Medicare Advantage plans combine Medicare Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) coverage into one plan. Many plans also include Part D prescription drug coverage and additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, wellness programs, and transportation assistance.
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Many Medicare Advantage plans have lower out-of-pocket costs than Original Medicare. This may include lower deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Some plans also include annual out-of-pocket maximums, helping protect you from high medical expenses.
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Many plans, such as HMOs and PPOs, offer coordinated care to help ensure you receive the right care at the right time. This may include a primary care physician, referrals to specialists, and additional support to help manage your healthcare needs.
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Many plans, such as HMOs and PPOs, offer coordinated care to help ensure you receive the right care at the right time. This may include a primary care physician, referrals to specialists, and additional support to help manage your healthcare needs.
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Many plans, such as HMOs and PPOs, offer coordinated care to help ensure you receive the right care at the right time. This may include a primary care physician, referrals to specialists, and additional support to help manage your healthcare needs.
When to Sign Up for Medicare Advantage
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Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) 7-Month Window
Your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period surrounds your 65th birthday and is generally your first opportunity to enroll in Medicare.
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Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) Oct 15 - Dec 7
Review your coverage and switch, join, or drop a Medicare Advantage plan for the following year.
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Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) Jan 1 - Mar 31
If you're enrolled in Medicare Advantage, you can switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare.
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Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)
Certain life events or changes in circumstances may allow you to make coverage changes outside the standard enrollment periods.
