What is a Medicare Advantage plan?

A Medicare Advantage plan is a type of health insurance plan available to individuals enrolled in Medicare, the federal health insurance program for seniors and people with certain disabilities in California. It is an alternative to the original Medicare plan and is offered through private companies that contract with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Unlike original Medicare, which requires enrollees to pay a deductible and coinsurance, Medicare Advantage plans may provide both hospital and medical coverage in one, with a lower out-of-pocket cost. Medicare Advantage plans also often include extra benefits such as vision and dental, hearing and prescription drug coverage, as well as access to a large, nationwide network of health care providers. These plans generally require no referrals to specialists and may provide preventive care services, such as annual check-ups, at no additional cost. While these plans may come with restrictions, such as prior authorizations or limits on certain services, they can also offer more protection than original Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans also have certain requirements for enrollment, such as living in a plan’s service area, being eligible for Medicare, and paying the Part B premium.

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What is a Medicare Advantage plan?

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