Medicare Part C: Medicare Advantage
Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, offers the exact same coverage as combining Medicare Parts A and B (also known as Original Medicare). You will still need to first enroll in Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B before switching to a Medicare Advantage plan, so don’t procrastinate if you are in your open enrollment window – ENROLL in A and B!
With Medicare Advantage you are choosing to accept your Medicare coverage (same stuff as Parts A and B) from a private insurance company. Medicare Advantage is a replacement for Original Medicare.
Many times the premium for Medicare Advantage is free of charge because the government pays your premium directly to the private insurance company. Sometimes there are even enhanced features in Medicare Advantage plans like prescription drug coverage.
Why Choose Original Medicare Instead of Medicare Advantage?
I know what you are thinking! Why would I pay for Medicare Parts A and B when I can just get Medicare Advantage for free or almost free?
Medicare Advantage plans require you to get most medical and hospital services from a network of hospitals. There might be great plan in your area or there might not be one at all. With a Medicare Advantage plan, you no longer have the right to choose you doctor. Additionally, with a Medicare Advantage plan you are not allowed to buy a Medicare Supplement policy to pay for the additional 20% of expenses.
The main benefit of Medicare Advantage is the low cost for the coverage. If you are on a budget and have a limited income, then Medicare Advantage might be your best option. That said, you get more flexible coverage by sticking with Medicare Parts A and B instead of Medicare Part C. If you want to learn about Medicare Part C – Medicare Advantage then give me a call or request a quote below. We are certified to offer those plans.
* Montana Life Group is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the federal Medicare program.
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