WHAT IS A MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN?

Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, is an alternative way for Medicare beneficiaries to receive their Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) benefits. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans provide all of the benefits covered under Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and often include additional benefits like prescription drug coverage (Part D), dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs.

Medicare Advantage plans usually operate as Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) or Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), which means beneficiaries may need to use the plan's network of doctors and hospitals to get the lowest costs. Some plans may require referrals to see specialists.

One of the key benefits of Medicare Advantage plans is that they often offer lower out-of-pocket costs than Original Medicare and may include extra services. However, plan benefits and costs can vary depending on the insurer and geographic location.

Medicare Advantage plans are required to cover all of the services that Original Medicare covers, except hospice care, which continues to be covered by Original Medicare even if you have a Medicare Advantage plan.