Medicare Services · Part C
Medicare Advantage Plans
All-in-one coverage through a private insurer, often with extra benefits built in. Here's what to know before you choose one.
What is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, is offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. Instead of using Original Medicare directly, you get your Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) benefits through the plan, and most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription drug coverage as well. It's one plan, one card, and often one monthly bill.
What's typically included
- •Hospital and medical coverage at least equal to Original Medicare
- •Prescription drug coverage, in most plans
- •Extra benefits many plans offer, such as dental, vision, hearing, or a fitness membership
- •A yearly limit on what you pay out of pocket
Things worth knowing
Most Medicare Advantage plans 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 typically structured as copays for each visit rather than a flat monthly premium, so 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 health needs before recommending a plan.
A Medicare Advantage plan might be a good fit if:
- You want predictable, often low, monthly costs
- You're comfortable using a network of doctors
- You'd like extra benefits like dental or vision bundled in
- You don't travel frequently outside your plan's coverage area
Every Medicare Advantage plan is different, and the right one depends on your doctors, your medications, and your budget. 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.