Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage (also known as Part C) is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and are required to cover everything that Medicare Parts A and B cover. 

Most plans also include additional benefits like prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and more, all bundled into one plan. 

To enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you must: 

• Be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (for at least 5 years)

• Live in the plan's service area

Most Individuals qualify, including those with conditions like End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

There are several times you can enroll in or make changes to a Medicare Advantage plan: 

• Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

  • Begins 3 months before your 65th birthday and ends 3 months after

• Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

  • October 15 - December 7

  • You can enroll, switch, or drop a plan

• Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA-OEP)

  • January 1 - March 31

• Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)

  • Triggered by certain life events like moving or losing coverage

All Medicare Advantage plans include:

• Hospital stays (inpatient care)

• Doctor visits and outpatient services

• Emergency and urgent care

• Preventative services

Many plans also include additional benefits such as:

• Prescription drug coverage (Part D)

• Dental, vision, and hearing coverage

• Fitness programs (like gym memberships)

• Over-the-counter allowances

Benefits vary by plan, so it's important to review details carefully.

Costs can vary depending on the plan, but here are some key things to know: 

• Some plans offer $0 monthly premiums

• You must still pay your Medicare Part B premium

• Plans may include copayments or coinsurance for services

• Each plan has an annual out-of-pocket maximum, which helps protect you from high costs

Your total cost will depend on your plan, location, and healthcare usage.

Not all Medicare Advantage plans are the same. I help you compare your options based on: 

• Your doctors and prescriptions

• Your budget

• The coverage that actually matters to you

That way, you can feel confident in the plan you choose.

If you have questions or want help comparing plans, I'm here to help. There's no cost to work with me, and I'll walk you through everything step-by-step.