Five Reasons to Choose Medicare Advantage

We all want to save money on healthcare, especially as we get older. For many seniors, Original Medicare is a great choice to obtain quality healthcare, but Original Medicare sometimes comes with limitations or out-of-pocket expenses that get in the way of living well and comfortably. Thankfully, alternatives exist like Medicare Advantage plans. These plans are sometimes referred to as Medicare Part C, and they can give you additional benefits not found in Original Medicare.

Why Switch to a Medicare Advantage Plan?

If you’re new to Medicare or have questions about choosing the right plan, below are five reasons to choose Medicare Advantage for your healthcare needs:

1. Additional Benefits

As mentioned, you can often receive additional benefits through a Part C Medicare Advantage (MA) plan as opposed to just choosing Original Medicare. Some benefits that come with Medicare Advantage plans may include vision and dental coverage as well as membership discounts to wellness programs or fitness centers. You may also be able to receive additional discounts on certain medications through specific retail pharmacies with a Part C Medicare Advantage plan.

2. Annual Out-Of-Pocket Spending Limits

Depending on your plan, you may also be able to enjoy out-of-pocket spending limits with a Medicare Advantage plan. This means that once you reach your plan’s limit, the rest of your medical expenses are covered for the year as long as the expenses are outlined in your policy. This way, you can have peace of mind in knowing that you won’t be faced with unexpected costs throughout the year. Instead, you have a limit that lets you budget ahead of time to ensure you receive the healthcare you deserve.

3. Lower Monthly Premium Potential

Some Medicare Advantage plans will require no premium, meaning you don’t have to pay an additional monthly fee to keep your healthcare coverage. This will vary depending on your plan provider and could be affected by the number of years you have worked and paid into Medicare. If you qualify, however, a plan with no additional premium requirement or a low premium could save you hundreds of dollars a year or more compared to Original Medicare.

4. Central Healthcare Planning

Another benefit you may experience with a Medicare Advantage plan is the convenience of working with a dedicated provider. When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, all of your benefits, including those provided by Part A, Part B, and Part D are handled by a single administrator.

5. You Can Still Make Changes

You might think that enrolling in Medicare Advantage means you’re stuck with your plan for life, but you can still make changes in the future during the Annual Enrollment Period. This occurs in the fall from October 15 through December 7, and during this time, you can make changes and even go back to Original Medicare coverage if you want. As a result, Medicare Advantage plans give you the freedom and flexibility to make the choices that fit your healthcare needs, even if those needs change down the road.

Talk to Your Doctor About Medicare Advantage

Of course, although Medicare Advantage plans can be beneficial, only you and your doctor know what’s right for your specific healthcare needs. Before making any type of decision regarding healthcare insurance, talk to your physician to make sure you will have access to the right options that address your unique situation.