What Is Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare. These plans are offered by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare. When you enroll in Medicare Advantage, you still have Medicare—but your benefits are delivered through the insurance company’s plan rather than directly through the federal government.

What Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cover?

By law, Medicare Advantage must cover everything Original Medicare covers. That includes:

• Hospital care (Part A)

• Medical services (Part B)

In addition, many plans offer extra benefits that Original Medicare does not, such as:

• Prescription drug coverage (Part D)

• Vision, dental, and hearing benefits

• Fitness programs (like SilverSneakers®)

• Over-the-counter allowances

• Transportation to medical appointments

What Are the Costs?

Medicare Advantage plans often have:

• $0 or low monthly premiums (you must still pay your Part B premium)

• Copays and coinsurance when you receive care

• Out-of-pocket maximums, which protect you from unlimited costs (Original Medicare does not have this protection)

Your total cost depends on the plan, the network of providers, and the services you use.

Provider Networks

Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans usually have networks:

• HMO plans generally require you to use in-network providers and get referrals for specialists.

• PPO plans give more flexibility to see out-of-network providers, though at higher cost.

Why Do People Choose Medicare Advantage?

• Lower or $0 premiums

• Built-in drug coverage

• Added benefits not found in Original Medicare

• Annual out-of-pocket limits for protection

Why Might Someone Stay With Original Medicare?

• Freedom to see any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare

• No need to stay in a network

• Option to pair with a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policy for predictable costs

The Bottom Line

Medicare Advantage is a popular choice because it bundles coverage into one plan and often includes extra benefits. But the right choice depends on your health needs, your budget, and how important provider flexibility is to you.

Before enrolling, it’s wise to compare plans in your area and confirm your doctors and prescriptions are covered.

Ready to Review Your Options?

At Apex Retirement Solutions, LLC, we specialize in helping people understand their Medicare choices. We’ll review your doctors, prescriptions, and budget so you can feel confident in your coverage.

👉 Click here to schedule your appointment: Book Your Medicare Review

Let’s make sure you have the right plan in place to protect your health and your retirement.