What is a Medicare Advantage Plan?

A Medicare Advantage Plan is a type of plan offered by a private company that partners with Medicare to provide your Part A and Part B benefits.

These plans may include Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), Private Fee-for-Service Plans, Special Needs Plans and Medicare Medical Savings Account Plans.

If you're enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, your Medicare services are provided through the plan, not through Original Medicare.
Many Medicare Advantage Plans also give coverage for prescription drugs.

What do Medicare Advantage Plans cover?

Medicare Advantage Plans are made to cover all services provided by Original Medicare, except for hospice care. It's essential to note that hospice care remains available through Original Medicare, even if you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan. All Medicare Advantage Plans provide urgent care and emergency treatments.

In addition to these services, many plans offer bonus benefits such as vision, hearing, dental and wellness programs. Prescription medication coverage is also included (Part D). Along with your Part B premium, you may need to pay a monthly premium for your Medicare Advantage Plan.

You can ask for a written advance coverage decision to find out if a service is covered by your health plan and if it is deemed medically necessary. If you don't request this and the plan denies coverage, you may be responsible for the full cost.