Medicare Advantage, the More Coverage, the Same Medicare
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an alternative approved by the federal government to Original Medicare, offered by private insurance companies certified by the government of the united states. UU. Every Medicare Advantage plan must provide the full scope of benefits that are found in Parts A and B, and most of it goes beyond the offer supplemental coverages —such as dental care, benefits, vision and hearing services— the federal program by itself does not provide. In All Insurancewe compare the plans available in your location and guide you through the enrollment at no cost to you.
What is Medicare Advantage and how does it work?
Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, is a type of health care coverage the federal administered by private insurance companies certified by the government of the united states. UU. Each one of these plans meet the profit hospital, Part A, and the medical services of Party B under a single policy, and the majority also includes prescription drug coverage through Part D.
Unlike Original Medicare, the Advantage plans operate through a network of providers defined and include a maximum limit of annual expenses from your pocket, which gives the beneficiaries a greater predictability about their health care costs throughout the year.
Important: To join a Medicare Advantage plan requires enrollment in Parts A and B of Medicare is current and that your residential address is within the area of geographical coverage of the plan that you select.
What additional benefits it offers Medicare Advantage?
In addition to covering all of what is covered by Original Medicare, many Medicare Advantage plans offer supplemental benefits that the federal program is not complete. The specific benefits vary by plan and insurer:
Dental coverage: exams, cleanings, and, in some plans, major procedures such as crowns or dentures.
Coverage of vision: annual eye exam and benefits for the purchase of prescription glasses.
Coverage hearing: hearing exams and hearing discount on selected plan.
Prescription drug coverage (Part D): included in most plans.
Wellness programs and fitness: access to programs like SilverSneakers.
Telehealth services: for medical consultations and remote.
Limit-of-pocket expenses: a financial protection that the Original Medicare does not provide.
Transportation to medical appointments: available in some plans depending on the county.
The fringe benefits vary significantly between the plans. Advisor All Insurance compare the options in your area for you to choose from with complete information.
Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage: Which is best for you?
The right choice depends on your state of health, the doctors that you want to keep, the frequency with which you use medical services, and if you travel often:
| Feature | Original Medicare (Parts A and B) |
Medicare Advantage (Part C) |
|---|---|---|
| Network providers | Any doctor that accepts Medicare | Defined network established by the plan |
| Dental coverage | Not included | Included in many plans |
| Coverage of vision | Not included | Included in many plans |
| Drugs | Requires Part D separately | Included in most plans |
| Spending limit | No annual limit | Annual limit established by law |
| Monthly premium extra | No (single premium Part B) | Many plans have a premium of $0 |
| Outside of your area | National coverage | Generally restricted (covered emergency) |
| Referrals to specialists | Not required | Depends on the type of plan (HMO or PPO) |
When and how do I sign up?
Enrollment in Medicare Advantage is defined by periods that are legal to avoid penalties:
Initial Enrollment period (IEP): Starts 3 months before you turn 65, includes the month of your birthday and ends 3 months after.
Annual Enrollment period (AEP): From 15 October to 7 December. You can change the plan or join a new one. The changes start on January 1.
Open Enrollment period for Medicare (EPO): From January 1 to march 31. It allows those who already have Advantage to switch to another plan at once.
Special periods (SEP): Available for moving expenses, loss of prior coverage or if you qualify for Medicaid.
Frequently asked questions about Medicare Advantage
Who can enroll in Medicare Advantage?
People of 65 years or more with Parts A and B are active, or under the age of 65 with a qualified disability. Your address must be within the coverage area of the plan.
Does Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare?
It does not eliminate it, but replaces it as your coverage is active. While enrolled in an Advantage plan, the plan manages your Medicare benefits.
How much does a Medicare Advantage plan?
Many plans have a monthly premium of an additional $0, but you must continue to pay your Part B premium to the federal government.
Can I keep my current doctors?
Depends on if your doctors are part of the plan's network. Before you register, verify together if their specialists are included.
What cover emergencies outside of my area?
Yes. By law, all plans must cover emergency care and emergency at any place of the united States.
Does cover prescription drugs?
The vast majority of the plans include pharmacy benefits. We will check your specific medicines are covered in the formulary of the plan prior to its registration.
Are you ready to find your Medicare Advantage plan?
Our specialized consultants will explain their options without cost or commitment. We compare plans in your county to make the best decision.
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