What is Medicare Advantage (Part C)?
Medicare Advantage is a type of Medicare plan offered by private insurance companies. It covers everything that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) covers and may also include extra benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage.
What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap)?
Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that may include extra benefits.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works with Original Medicare to help pay costs like copays, coinsurance, and deductibles.
You cannot have both at the same time.
Do I lose Medicare if I join a Medicare Advantage plan?
No. You will still have Medicare. Your Medicare benefits are just provided through the insurance company instead of directly from the government.
Can I switch plans later?
Yes. You can usually make changes during certain times of the year, such as:
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 – December 7
or
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) from January 1 – March 31
Some people qualify for special enrollment periods.
Part D is prescription drug coverage. It can be included in many Medicare Advantage plans, or you can buy it as a stand-alone plan if you have Original Medicare.
What is the “donut hole” in prescription drug coverage?
The “donut hole” is a gap in Medicare Part D coverage where you may have to pay more for your prescriptions after you and your plan spend a certain amount. The good news is this gap has been getting smaller, and many plans help reduce these costs.
Can I have Medicare and Medicaid at the same time?
Yes. This is called being “dual eligible.” Some special Medicare Advantage plans (called D-SNPs) are designed for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid.
Will my doctor accept my plan?
It depends on the plan. Medicare Advantage plans have networks of doctors and hospitals. Before enrolling, it’s important to check that your doctor and hospital are in the plan’s network.
Does Medicare cover dental, vision, or hearing?
Original Medicare does not usually cover these services. Some Medicare Advantage plans include benefits for dental checkups, eyeglasses, and hearing aids.
What does it cost to see you as my broker?
Absolutely nothing! My services are free to you. I am paid by the insurance company if you enroll in a plan, but the cost of your plan is the same whether you use me or not.
Where can I learn more about Medicare?