Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Last updated October 2021

Through the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003, Medicare made it easier for private insurance companies to offer alternatives to Original Medicare (Parts A & B) and a Medicare supplemental insurance policy. Medicare sponsors Medicare Advantage plans as part of the Medicare program and pays the plans to manage a person’s health care.

In order to enroll in these plans you will need to be enrolled in Part A and Part B of Medicare which means paying the Part B premium. While Medicare Advantage plans in essence replaces Original Medicare, they must cover what Medicare covers; however, the costs for each service may vary. You receive all your Medicare-covered benefits through the private plan chosen.

The types of plans included are:

• Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO)
• Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO)
• Private Fee-for-Service Plans
• Medicare Special Needs Plans
• Medicare Savings Account

Some of the plans above may include prescription drug coverage and other extras such as vision and hearing services and allowances and dental coverage. NOTE: generally, to receive the full value of a Medicare Advantage plan, you must receive care from a network of local providers and hospitals.

For more information about Medicare Advantage plans available in your area, please contact us.