Part C is a combination plan of Parts A and B, and usually Part D that often includes extra benefits (not included in Original Medicare or Medicare Supplements) such as:
- Hearing
- Vision
- Dental
- Gym memberships
- Health and wellness products
Most Medicare Advantage (MA) plans also include prescription drug coverage (Part D). These are called Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) plans. Medicare Advantage plans of any kind cannot be combined with Medicare Supplement insurance.
When you join a Medicare Advantage plan, your private insurance company becomes your insurer – not Medicare. These companies are then reimbursed by the federal government. Private insurance companies commonly come in the form of an HMO (health maintenance organization) or PPO (preferred provider organization). These limit care to a list of in-network providers in your area, but provide the benefit of coordinated care.
Medicare Advantage plans usually cost less than Medicare Supplement plans, and include the benefits of set co-pay amounts and annual out-of-pocket maximums. You’re eligible for enrollment in a Medicare Advantage plan if you have Parts A and B, live in the plan’s service area and do not have end-stage renal disease.
90% of Capital Realm Insurance clients choose either a Medicare Advantage plan or Medicare Supplement. In both cases, Alex almost always recommends including prescription drug coverage (Part D) in your plan. Contact him to find the best Medicare Advantage plan for you!