How to Explain Medicare Advantage Programs

Medicare recipients have the option of enrolling in a Medicare Advantage program that operates as an extension of Medicare. Members of a Medicare Advantage plan receive their health care through the Advantage program as it operates similarly to a Health Maintenance Organization or a Preferred Provider Organization. Members also receive additional benefits with membership in a Medicare Advantage plan, often including pharmaceutical benefits, lower copays and lower deductibles.

Instructions

• 1

  Check to see what type of Medicare you receive. To qualify for a Medicare Advantage program, you must receive both Medicare Parts A and B and you must keep your monthly premium payments up to date.

• 2

  Compare Medicare Advantage plans to ensure the plan you select has the options and the coverage you need and want. Look carefully at each option included in each plan (physician and hospital choice, out of pocket expenses and deductibles, for example). Compare the prices of each plan and select the plan you can afford that fits your needs the best.

• 3

  Plan for any Medicare Supplement Health Insurance ("medigap" policies) you use to help you pay deductibles and copayments to stop working if you begin using a Medicare Advantage program. Because these medigap policies cost you premiums, you may elect to discontinue them when you begin using an Advantage program.

• 4

  Use the health insurance card you receive with your Medicare Advantage plan every time you receive care or fill a prescription. Using this card will ensure coverage of the care you receive and any prescriptions you fill under the Advantage policy.