Medicare Advantage plans are a type of Medicare health plan that allows you to check into skilled nursing and hospice facilities more frequently than your regional medical policies will let you. The healthcare benefits of a Medicare Advantage program usually have no restrictions, which is one of the things that make them look so appealing to a potential MS beneficiary.
Determine your health care needs
When choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan, you should first figure out what your healthcare needs are. Some plans cover more services than others, so you’ll want to make sure that you’re choosing one that gives you access to the services and medications that you need.
When comparing Medicare Advantage plans, it’s important to consider what your healthcare needs are. The two most important factors when comparing Medicare Advantage Plans are the level of coverage and out-of-pocket costs. Looking at both will help you choose a plan that works for your specific needs.
When Can You Join a Medicare Advantage Plan?
When you’re eligible for Medicare, you can sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan at any time. Some people begin their Medicare Advantage plan on the same day they receive their Original Medicare cards. Others wait until after the initial enrollment period (generally the 7-day period that starts the day your original Medicare card is sent to you) if they want to compare plans and options.
How Do Medicare Advantage Plans Work?
A Medicare Advantage plan is an alternative to Original Medicare and is typically offered by private insurers. A Medicare Advantage plan offers its members the same benefits and coverage that Original Medicare does, but at a higher monthly premium than traditional Medicare. Your monthly premium will typically be less than if you were enrolled in Original Medicare alone, however, you must pay the Part B premium.
The benefits of enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan will depend on the company offering the plan and may include additional benefits such as dental or vision care that are not covered by Original Medicare.
What Does Medicare Cover For Medications?
Medicare covers 80% of medication costs, but the coverage is often limited to a list of preferred drugs and can vary by region. In addition to choosing a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage, you can also purchase an additional Medigap supplemental insurance policy to cover any gaps in drug coverage.
Consider What Additional Services Each Plan Offers
Medicare Advantage Plans offer their own unique benefits and service selections that may not be available through Original Medicare, such as dental or vision coverage. Some plans also provide enhanced benefits, such as multi-day hospital stays and better prescription drug coverage. Consider the additional services offered before deciding on a plan to see if it best fits your needs.
Conclusion
The most important thing to do when trying to decide if a Medicare Advantage plan is right for you is to make sure that you know what it involves and what you are getting into. This means that you must carefully read the literature your provider gives you and do your own research into Medicare Advantage plans in general as well as the plans available where you live.