Medicare · Part C
Medicare Advantage Plans
All-in-one coverage through a private insurer, often with built-in extra benefits. Here's what to know before you choose one.
What is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage Plans, also called Part C, are offered by private insurance companies and required to follow the rules set by Medicare. You must have (and keep) your Part A and Part B in order to enroll in this type of plan. Original Medicare assigns your Part A and Part B coverage to the private company so you get your hospital and medical benefits directly through their plan. Most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription drug coverage and extra perks not covered by Original Medicare. Just one card; that's it! Put your red, white and blue Medicare card away in a safe place.
What's typically included
- •Hospital and medical coverage at least equal to Original Medicare
- •Prescription drug coverage in most plans
- •Extra benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, a fitness membership and more
- •A yearly limit on what you pay out of pocket
Things worth knowing
Medicare Advantage plans generally use a network of doctors and hospitals, similar to many employer health plans. Staying in-network usually costs less and some plans require a referral to see a specialist. Costs are commonly structured as copays for each visit, rather than a flat monthly premium. Your monthly cost can be low while per-visit costs vary. This is exactly the kind of detail Arlyne checks against your specific doctors, pharmacy and healthcare needs before recommending a plan.
A Medicare Advantage plan might be a good fit if you:
- Are comfortable using a network of doctors in your plan's service area
- Want a low or $0 monthly premium and don't mind copays and deductibles
- Enjoy the savings of extra benefits like dental or vision bundled into your plan
- Don't often travel outside of your plan's service area
Every Medicare Advantage plan is different. The right one depends on your doctors, medications, budget and healthcare priorities. Arlyne compares the actual plans available in your area side by side, in plain language, at no cost.
Not sure if Medicare Advantage is right for you?
Arlyne will walk through your options and answer every question,
with no pressure to enroll.
By contacting the phone number on this website, you will be directed to a licensed agent.