Medicare Advantage Plans work like traditional HMOs and PPOs.
You may already be familiar with these types of plans (HMOs and PPOs). Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, makes it possible for people with Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) to receive their Medicare benefits in an alternative way. Here’s what is (and isn’t):
Yes
- You’re enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A and B).
- You’d like to keep premiums and copays as low as possible.
- You want to combine medical and prescription coverage in one easy plan.
- You want benefits Original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as dental and vision.
No
- You’re enrolling separately in Medicare Part D for prescription drug coverage.
- You have coverage from an employer that pays all or some of the costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover.
- You have coverage through your union that pays all or some of the costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover.
The Pros of Medicare Advantage plans
- Medicare Advantage plans must offer at least the same level of coverage as Medicare Part A and Part B and many plans offer added benefits.
- Medicare Advantage plans may cost you less.
- Medicare Advantage plans coordinate care among your health care providers.
- Medicare Advantage plans can serve as your “one-stop” center for all your health and prescription drug coverage needs.
Do you have other questions about Medicare Advantage?
Contact us if you have questions and also to find out if a Medicare-Medicaid Plan is available in your area.
