What Is Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, is an alternative way to get your Medicare benefits through a private insurance company approved by Medicare. These plans combine your Part A and Part B coverage into a single plan, and most also include Part D prescription drug coverage.

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer extra benefits that Original Medicare does not, such as routine dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs. Plans often have low or even $0 monthly premiums, though you still pay your Part B premium. In exchange, these plans use provider networks, and you may need to use in-network doctors and get referrals depending on whether the plan is an HMO or PPO. Each plan also sets an annual out-of-pocket maximum that limits your total cost for covered services.

Because benefits, costs, and networks vary widely between plans and locations, it is important to compare your specific doctors, drugs, and budget before enrolling. A licensed Medicare advisor can help you weigh Medicare Advantage against Original Medicare so you can choose the approach that fits you best.

To enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you generally need to have both Part A and Part B and live in the plan's service area. Because plans can change their costs, networks, and benefits each year, reviewing your plan during open enrollment helps you confirm it still fits. Checking that your doctors and prescriptions remain covered is the best way to avoid surprises.