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Medicare is a federally-run health insurance program in the United States designed for individuals who are 65 and older, as well as for younger people with certain disabilities or health conditions. It was established in 1965 under President Lyndon B. Johnson to provide coverage for essential health services. Here's a breakdown of how Medicare works and what it covers:

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The Guide to Medicare Advantage (Part C)

​Medicare Advantage plans offer an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits, and they come with unique features and benefits. Here’s an in-depth look at Medicare Advantage plans, how they work, and what you need to consider when choosing one.

Key Points

  • Medicare Advantage Plans provide an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits through private insurance companies, rather than directly from the federal government.

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  • These plans cover all services included in Original Medicare and often offer additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing coverage, and fitness programs.

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  • Medicare Advantage plans usually operate within a network of doctors and hospitals.

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  • Can be low or $0, but you still pay the Medicare Part B premium.

Learn More by Clicking the Button Below

The PlanEnroll button will take you to a personalized website made specifically for your Medicare needs. You will be able to enter your information and find the best plan for you. You can also look through the many learning resources on Medicare.

What is Medicare Advantage?

​​Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, allows you to receive your Medicare benefits through a private insurance company rather than directly from the federal government. When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, the federal government pays the insurance company a monthly fee to manage your Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) benefits.

What are the Benefits?

​Medicare Advantage plans must cover all the services that Original Medicare covers, including hospital and medical services. Many plans also offer extra benefits, such as:

  • Vision and Dental Coverage: Some plans include routine eye exams, dental cleanings, and other services.

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  • Fitness Programs: Memberships to gyms or fitness programs.

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  • Wellness Programs: Additional services like transportation to medical appointments or home meal delivery.

Cost and Coverage

  • Monthly Premium: Medicare Advantage plans often have lower monthly premiums compared to Medicare Supplement plans. Some plans have a $0 premium, but you still pay your Medicare Part B premium.

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  • Co-pays and Coinsurance: You may have co-pays for doctor visits, prescription drugs, and other services. The amount varies by plan and service.

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  • Annual Out-of-Pocket Maximum: Medicare Advantage plans have a cap on out-of-pocket expenses, which provides financial protection against high medical costs.

When Can I Enroll?

  • Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): This period starts when you first become eligible for Medicare, usually when you turn 65. You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan during this time.

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  • Annual Election Period (AEP): From October 15 to December 7 each year, you can enroll in, switch, or drop Medicare Advantage plans. Any changes made during this period take effect on January 1 of the following year.

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  • Open Enrollment Period (OEP): From January 1 to March 31, you can switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another or return to Original Medicare. If you switch to Original Medicare during this time, you can also enroll in a separate Part D plan.

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  • Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs): You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you have specific circumstances such as moving to a new area, losing other insurance coverage, or other qualifying events.

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