What is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage Plans are another way to get your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage. Medicare Advantage Plans, sometimes called “Part C” or “MA Plans,” are offered by Medicare-approved private companies that must follow rules set by Medicare.
Part C in plain English
Most Medicare Advantage Plans include drug coverage (Part D). In most cases, you'll need to use health care providers who participate in the plan's network. These plans set a limit on what you'll have to pay out-of-pocket each year for covered services. Some plans offer non-emergency coverage out of network, but typically at a higher cost.
Remember, you must use the card from your Medicare Advantage Plan to get your Medicare-covered services. Keep your red, white, and blue Medicare card in a safe place because you'll need it if you ever switch back to Original Medicare.
From the Medicare overview: these “bundled” plans include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D. Plans may offer some extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn't cover — like vision, hearing, and dental services. Medicare Advantage Plans have yearly contracts with Medicare and must follow Medicare's coverage rules. The plan must notify you about any changes before the start of the next enrollment year. Each plan can charge different out-of-pocket costs and can have different rules for how you get services.
What to keep in mind
Often includes Part D
Most Medicare Advantage Plans include drug coverage (Part D) in the same plan.
Network rules
In most cases you'll use providers who participate in the plan's network. Some plans offer non-emergency out-of-network care at a higher cost.
Yearly out-of-pocket limit
These plans set a limit on what you'll have to pay out-of-pocket each year for covered services.
Possible extras
Plans may offer benefits Original Medicare doesn't cover — like vision, hearing, and dental services.
Next steps
Use the quote tool below, or call Frank to walk through plans for your doctors and prescriptions.
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