A Medicare Advantage Plan is a Medicare health plan
offered by a private insurance company that contracts
with Medicare to provide your Medicare Part A
(hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance)
benefits. These plans are also known as Medicare
Part C and provide an alternative way to receive
your Medicare coverage.
Medicare Advantage plans may include different types
of plan options, including Health Maintenance
Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations
(PPOs), Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) plans, Special
Needs Plans (SNPs), and Medicare Medical Savings
Account (MSA) plans. Each type of plan can have
different rules regarding providers, costs, referrals,
and how you receive covered services.
When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan, your
Medicare-covered Part A and Part B services are
generally provided through and paid for by the
Medicare Advantage plan rather than Original Medicare.
You will continue to have Medicare, but your coverage
and benefits will be administered through the private
insurance company offering your plan.
Many Medicare Advantage plans also include prescription
drug coverage (Part D), which can help cover the cost
of covered prescription medications. Depending on the
plan, additional benefits may also be available.
Because plans, costs, benefits, provider networks,
and coverage rules can vary, it is important to review
your options carefully and choose a plan that fits
your individual needs and circumstances. A licensed
insurance agent can help you understand the available
Medicare Advantage options and the differences
between plans.
Plan availability, benefits, premiums, copayments,
coinsurance, deductibles, provider networks, and other
costs or coverage details vary by plan and service area.
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance
companies approved by Medicare.