Is Medicare Advantage right for you?
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They cover everything Original Medicare covers, and many include drug coverage. Plans vary a lot by county, so the right one depends on your doctors, your prescriptions, and how you use care.
Who it tends to work for, and who should think twice
Often a good fit if you…
- Are comfortable using a network of doctors and hospitals
- Want medical and drug coverage combined in one plan
- Care about keeping your monthly premium low
- Mostly get your care close to home
Think twice if you…
- Have doctors you won't give up who aren't in the plan's network
- Spend months each year in another state
- Expect a lot of care and want predictable costs
- Don't like referrals or prior approvals
Which way might you lean?
Five quick questions. This isn't advice, just a starting point for our conversation.
Ready to compare plans on your own?
Medicare Advantage dates
- Initial Enrollment: when you first get Medicare at 65
- Annual Enrollment, Oct 15 – Dec 7: join, switch, or drop a plan for January 1
- Advantage Open Enrollment, Jan 1 – Mar 31: switch plans or go back to Original Medicare once
- Special Enrollment: some life events, like moving, let you change plans at other times
Medicare Advantage questions
Do I still pay my Part B premium?
Yes. With Medicare Advantage you keep paying your Part B premium, plus the plan's premium if it has one.
Do Medicare Advantage plans include drug coverage?
Many do. We'll check that each of your prescriptions is covered and what it would cost.
What's the difference between an HMO and a PPO?
An HMO usually requires you to use network providers and get referrals. A PPO lets you go out of network, usually at a higher cost. Plan rules vary.
Can I go back to Original Medicare later?
Yes, during Annual Enrollment or the Jan 1 – Mar 31 Advantage Open Enrollment. Buying a Supplement at that point may require health questions in most states.
Are the extra benefits worth it?
Sometimes. Extras vary by plan and county. We'll show you what's actually included so you can weigh it against network and cost.
Let's check your doctors and drugs before you choose.
Book a free 15-minute call. We'll compare the Medicare Advantage plans we represent in your county.