What Is a Medicare Advantage Plan?
A Medicare Advantage plan (also known as "Part C") is a private health insurance option approved by Medicare that provides Original Medicare benefits and often includes additional coverage like prescription drugs, vision, dental, and wellness programs.
These plans may offer lower out-of-pocket costs and come in different types to meet your specific healthcare needs.
Types of Medicare Advantage Plans
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)
Network-based plans that require you to stay within the plan's network of doctors and hospitals.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
More flexibility to see out-of-network providers, though at higher costs.
Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS)
Plans that determine how much they'll pay providers and how much you'll pay when you get care.
Special Needs Plans (SNPs)
Specialized plans for people with chronic conditions or specific healthcare needs.
Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs)
Plans for individuals eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid.
What Medicare Advantage Covers
Hospital & Medical Services
- Inpatient hospital stays
- Doctor visits
- Outpatient care
- Preventive services
Value-Added Benefits
- Dental care
- Vision services
- Hearing services
- Prescription drug coverage
- Care coordination
Key Benefits
- Lower costs
- Built-in prescription drug coverage
- Extra services not covered by Original Medicare
- Annual out-of-pocket limit
Participating Insurance Carriers
We work with top-rated insurance carriers to provide you with the best Medicare Advantage options in Florida.
Aetna
Cigna
Humana
United Healthcare
WellCare
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for Medicare Advantage, you must:
- Be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B
- Live in the plan's service area
- Be 65 or older, or under 65 with a qualifying disability
Medicare Advantage FAQ
Common questions about Medicare Advantage plans
How do Medicare Advantage plans differ from Original Medicare?
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private companies approved by Medicare and often include additional benefits like prescription drugs, dental, and vision coverage that Original Medicare doesn't cover.
Key Difference: Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare, while Medicare Supplement works alongside it.
Can I see any doctor with a Medicare Advantage plan?
Most Medicare Advantage plans have provider networks. You'll typically pay less when you use doctors and hospitals in your plan's network. Some plans allow out-of-network care at higher costs.
✅ In-Network
Lower costs, covered services
⚠️ Out-of-Network
Higher costs, limited coverage
What additional benefits might be included?
Many Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, hearing aids, wellness programs, transportation to medical appointments, and care coordination services.
Prescription Drugs
Often included
Dental & Vision
Extra benefits
Transportation
To appointments
When can I enroll in Medicare Advantage?
You can enroll during several periods throughout the year, with the main enrollment period being October 15 - December 7 annually.
Annual Open Enrollment: October 15 - December 7 for coverage starting January 1st.
How much do Medicare Advantage plans cost?
Many Medicare Advantage plans have $0 monthly premiums, but you'll still pay your Medicare Part B premium plus any plan-specific costs like copays and deductibles.
💡 Cost Tip: While premiums may be low, compare total out-of-pocket costs including deductibles and copays.
Ready to Compare Medicare Advantage Plans?
Our licensed Medicare specialists will help you find the right plan at the best price.