Combine plans and add extra benefits into one convenient plan
Medicare Advantage (MA) plans (Part C) — Those enrolled in Medicare Advantage (MA) plans are guaranteed the same services as in original Medicare (Part A and Part B). You can select original Medicare plus a Medicare supplement, or you can select an MA plan. These plans are offered by private insurance companies to offer the benefits of Original Medicare (Parts A and B) along with additional benefits.
- Includes Medicare Parts A and B benefits; however, you will still be required to pay the Medicare Part B premium, and the benefits are administered by the insurance company
- Most plans include prescription drug coverage
- Low premiums with some out-of-pocket cost for medical services
- Helps protect finances by covering deductibles, coinsurance, and other costs not covered by Medicare Parts A and B
Medicare Advantage plans are another health insurance option for Medicare beneficiaries. These plans (HMOs, PPOs, PFFS plans, and/or MSAs) provide all Medicare Part A and Part B benefits and possibly additional benefits. Check state availability. Members may be required to use a network or group of preferred providers. Check with your doctors and hospital to see if they accept the insurance plan you are considering joining. All four plan options may not be available in the county where you reside.
If you join a Medicare Advantage Plan, you are in the Medicare program but receive your Medicare benefits from the private carrier. You are no longer enrolled in original Medicare. You may enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan during your initial enrollment period, the annual election period, or the annual Medicare Advantage open enrollment period from January 1 through March 31. There are limitations as to what a Medicare beneficiary may do during the Medicare Advantage open enrollment period.
