Medicare Advantage…An Alternative to the Original Medicare with Extra Benefits

Medicare Advantage Plans cover hospitalization (Medicare Part A) and physician and outpatient services (Medicare Part B) just like the Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans also cover emergency and urgent care, and may offer additional coverage for services such as:

• Vision
• Hearing
• Dental
• Health and wellness programs

You cannot have a Medicare Supplement Plan and a Medicare Advantage Plan simultaneously. There are several different types of Medicare Advantage Plans, including Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), Private Fee for Service Plans (PFF)s, and Special Needs Plans (SNPs). These plans can vary in terms of which physicians and hospitals are in-network providers. In general, the broader the network, the higher the premium.

Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage?

People frequently ask whether they are better off with a combination of Medicare (Part A and Part B) and a Medicare Supplement plan, or purchasing a Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) plan. The chart provides a visual explanation. Each individual’s situation is different, but generally:

• Medicare Supplement plans are for those who are willing to pay a higher premium in order to eliminate out of pocket expenses for Medicare approved services. These plans also allow participants to use any physician or hospital that accepts Medicare.
• Medicare Advantage plans are for those who typically want a lower premium, and are willing to pay copays and coinsurance for Medicare approved services.

We Help You Embrace Retirement

Medicare Advantage plans are only one of the many services we offer to help you live the retirement you’ve worked so hard for. Our team will sit down with you, determine your goals and needs, and then develop a comprehensive plan that will help you live comfortably and happily in retirement.