When someone becomes eligible for Medicare, unless they are covered by a group plan of some kind, they have two options — Original Medicare or, Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C).
Medicare Advantage is an alternative to the government-issued “Original Medicare” program and is administered by private insurance companies, not the government.
Medicare Advantage plans combine the hospital, medical, and prescription drug coverages into one plan. This means if you are in a Medicare Advantage plan, you will have an identification card.
Medicare Advantage plans are different from Original Medicare in many ways, including pricing, coverage levels, co-insurance, deductibles, and more. There are also special rules surrounding Medicare Advantage plans.
It’s critical that you get thorough and unbiased advice when it comes to choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage because in some scenarios your final choice cannot be “undone”.
Because we are an independent agency, we can provide you with objective advice that will educate you on the differences, pros, and cons, and ultimately help you make your decision much easier.
Disclaimer: We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.