Medicare Advantage Plans—often referred to as “Part C” or “MAPD Plans”— are offered by private Medicare-approved insurance companies under the rules and regulations of Medicare officials. When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, the administration of your health care and health care costs are relinquished by the Federal Government and taken over by your plan carrier.  Medicare Advantage Plans use a network of providers, are required by law to offer coverage that is at least as good as what Original Medicare provides, and also offer extra coverage benefits such as dental care, eyeglasses, hearing aids, wellness programs, and prescription drug coverage all under one monthly premium.  In some cases, out-of-network coverage will be provided in your plan, but often at a higher rate. You must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B before you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Although you may pay some costs as you go along, Medicare Advantage Plans set a limit on your annual out-of-pocket expenses for covered services.  Also, to clear up any confusion, if you do decide to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you’ll still have Original Medicare, but will be getting most of your Part A (hospital, skilled nursing, home health care, and hospice) and Part B (medical/out-patient) coverage, and in most cases your Part D Prescription Drug coverage, through a private insurance company that is contracted with the federal government.