Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans
Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, are all-in-one alternatives to Original Medicare. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and provide your Part A and Part B benefits—often with additional services included.
What Medicare Advantage Includes
What Medicare Advantage Typically Covers
- Medicare Part A (hospital coverage)
- Medicare Part B (medical coverage)
- Most plans include Part D (prescription drugs)
- Preventive care
- Hospital and outpatient services
Additional Benefits Many Plans Offer
- Dental, vision, and hearing
- Over-the-counter (OTC) allowances
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Fitness or wellness programs
- Telehealth services
(Benefits vary by plan and location.)
Types Of Medicare Advantage Plans
Common Plan Types
HMO
(Health Maintenance Organization)
Requires using in-network providers except for emergencies.
PPO
(Preferred Provider Organization)
Allows out-of-network providers at a higher cost.
PFFS
(Private Fee-for-Service)
You can see any provider who agrees to the plan’s payment terms.
SNP
(Special Needs Plans)
Designed for specific groups, such as dual-eligible beneficiaries or individuals with certain health conditions.
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- All-in-one coverage
- Lower or $0 monthly premiums (in many areas)
- Extra benefits not included in Original Medicare
- Predictable out-of-pocket maximum
Considerations
- Networks may limit which doctors you can see
- Prior authorization may be required
- Costs and benefits can change annually
- Out-of-network care may cost more
Cost & Eligibility
Costs May Include:
Part B premium
(still required)
Plan premium
(some $0)
Copays and coinsurance
Drug costs
(if included)
Annual out-of-pocket maximum
Eligibility
You must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. You must live in the plan’s service area.
When you can enroll
Enrollment Periods
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
When you first become eligible for Medicare.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
October 15 – December 7 each year.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA-OEP)
January 1 – March 31 for those already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)
For qualifying life events like moving or losing coverage.
How True Life Advantage Can Help
Our licensed advisors can help you compare Medicare Advantage plans available in your area and explain benefits, costs, networks, and extra services so you can choose the coverage that fits your needs.
TruLife Advantage is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
We may not offer every plan available in your area. For a full list of options, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.