Medicare Advantage Plans
All-in-one Medicare coverage that often includes dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drugs — sometimes at $0 premium.
Medicare Advantage Explained
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits through a private insurance company approved by Medicare. These plans must cover all the services that Original Medicare covers — and most include additional benefits that Original Medicare doesn't offer.
Many Medicare Advantage plans have a $0 monthly premium (though you still pay your Part B premium), and most include prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and hearing benefits. Some plans even include gym memberships, over-the-counter allowances, and transportation to medical appointments.
The trade-off is that Advantage plans typically restrict you to a network of doctors and hospitals, and may require referrals or prior authorizations for certain services.
Types of Medicare Advantage Plans
Health Maintenance Organization — requires a primary care physician referral to see specialists. Generally lower premiums.
Preferred Provider Organization — more flexibility to see any doctor, in or out of network, without a referral.
Private Fee-for-Service — you can see any Medicare-approved provider who accepts the plan's payment terms.
Special Needs Plan — designed for people with specific chronic conditions, dual Medicare/Medicaid eligibility, or institutional needs.
Is Medicare Advantage Right for You?
Advantages
- Often $0 monthly premium
- Includes prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- May include dental, vision, and hearing
- Out-of-pocket maximum protects you from catastrophic costs
- May include gym memberships, transportation, and OTC benefits
Considerations
- Restricted to plan's network of doctors and hospitals
- Requires referrals in HMO plans
- Coverage varies by county and plan
- Prior authorization may be required for some services
- Plans can change benefits year to year
Deborah's advice: Whether Medicare Advantage is right for you depends on your health needs, preferred doctors, medications, and budget. As an independent broker, Deborah can compare every plan available in your area and help you decide — at no cost to you.
Medicare Advantage FAQ
Compare Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement
Not sure which approach is right for you? Deborah can walk you through a side-by-side comparison based on your specific situation.
Ready to Compare Medicare Advantage Plans?
Deborah will compare every plan available in your county and help you find the best fit — free, no obligation.