Medicare Advantage (Part C) is a way to get your Medicare benefits through a private insurance company instead of directly through the government. Most plans bundle Part A, Part B, and Part D together — and many add extra benefits Original Medicare doesn’t offer, like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs, often for a $0 monthly premium.
Plans and networks change every year. Even if you love your current Medicare Advantage plan, it’s worth a free annual check-up — carriers can adjust costs, drug lists, and provider networks each January.
Types of Medicare Advantage Plans
| Plan Type | How It Works |
|---|---|
| HMO | Care is coordinated through a primary care provider, typically within a defined network. Usually the lowest cost option. |
| PPO | More flexibility to see out-of-network providers, usually at a higher cost, without needing a referral. |
| HMO-POS | An HMO with a “point of service” option allowing limited out-of-network care. |
| PFFS | Private Fee-for-Service — the plan determines how much it pays providers and how much you owe. |
| Special Needs Plans (SNP) | Tailored for people with specific chronic conditions, dual Medicare/Medicaid eligibility, or institutional care needs. |
What to Weigh Before You Choose
- ✓ Are your doctors and hospitals in the plan’s network?
- ✓ Are your prescriptions covered, and at what cost?
- ✓ What’s the plan’s maximum out-of-pocket limit?
- ✓ Does it include dental, vision, hearing, or fitness benefits?
- ✓ Do you travel often, and does the plan cover you away from home?
When You Can Enroll
You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan during your Initial Enrollment Period, the Annual Election Period (October 15 – December 7), or the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) if you want to make one change to an existing plan. Certain life events also open a Special Enrollment Period.
Not sure if Medicare Advantage or a Medicare Supplement is the better fit? That’s exactly the kind of question we love to help answer — for free.
Compare Medicare Advantage Plans in Your Area
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