Medicare Advantage Plans | Part C
Understand Your Medicare Advantage Options
The Medicare Advantage Plans | Part C section provides an overview of Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C—an alternative way to receive your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits through a Medicare-approved private insurance company.*
Most Medicare Advantage plans also include prescription drug coverage, and some may offer additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, fitness, transportation, or other services.
Plan availability, benefits, provider networks, costs, and eligibility vary by location and plan.
Choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan
When comparing Medicare Advantage plans, consider more than the monthly premium.
Important factors may include:
- Doctors and hospitals in the plan's network
- Prescription drug coverage and pharmacies
- Copayments, deductibles, and coinsurance
- Annual out-of-pocket limits
- Prior authorization requirements
- Additional benefits
- Plan availability in your area
You can Explore & Enroll online or request help from a Medicare Advisor and licensed insurance agent.
If you would like assistance—or want to work with a specific Advisor Agent—complete the inquiry form below.
When Can You Enroll?
Medicare Advantage enrollment is generally available during certain Medicare enrollment periods.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
When you first become eligible for Medicare, you may be able to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan after you have Medicare Part A and Part B.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) | Medicare Open Enrollment
October 15 – December 7
During this annual period, eligible beneficiaries may generally:
- Join a Medicare Advantage plan
- Switch Medicare Advantage plans
- Return to Original Medicare
- Make certain prescription drug coverage changes
Changes generally take effect January 1.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
January 1 – March 31
If you are already enrolled in Medicare Advantage, you may generally make one plan change or return to Original Medicare during this period.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)
Certain life events may allow you to make changes outside the regular enrollment periods. Examples may include moving, losing certain coverage, qualifying for additional assistance, or other Medicare-approved circumstances.
If you are unsure whether you qualify, an Advisor Agent can help you review your options.
Common Medicare Advantage Plan Types
Medicare Advantage plans may include:
HMO – Health Maintenance Organization
Generally uses a defined provider network.
PPO – Preferred Provider Organization
Typically provides greater flexibility for using providers outside the network, often at a higher cost.
SNP – Special Needs Plan
Designed for individuals who meet certain health, financial, or institutional eligibility requirements.
PFFS – Private Fee-for-Service
Uses plan-specific payment and provider participation rules.
MSA – Medical Savings Account
Combines a high-deductible Medicare Advantage plan with a medical savings account.
Not every plan type is available in every area.
Before Selecting a Plan
Before enrolling, consider whether:
- Your doctors and hospitals participate
- Your prescriptions are covered
- Your pharmacy is in-network
- You understand the plan's costs
- Prior authorization may apply
- Additional benefits meet your needs
- The plan serves your geographic area
Your healthcare needs and available plans can change, so reviewing your Medicare coverage each year is important.
Explore & Enroll or Request Assistance
US Medicare Advisor gives you two ways to move forward.
You may Explore & Enroll online, or request assistance from a Medicare Advisor and licensed insurance agent.
If an Advisor Agent referred you to US Medicare Advisor—or you already know the Advisor Agent you would like to work with—enter that person's name on the inquiry form.
Important Disclaimers
- No Guarantee of Coverage: Enrollment into a Medicare Advantage policy can be subjected to underwriting approval and state-specific enrollment rules and guidelines. The completion of an application may not guarantee acceptance into a plan.
- Carrier-Specific Rules: Each insurance carrier may have different rules, pricing, and underwriting requirements. An agent advisor will help you find the best fit based on your health history and needs, but final approval rests with the insurance carrier.
- Call for Personalized Assistance: While we strive to provide comprehensive information online, the nuances of Medicare Advantage enrollment make it essential to speak with a Medicare advisor and licensed agent, who can offer personalized advice and support.
Easily Connect: Call or Submit Inquiry Form
We understand that discussing insurance options over the phone can sometimes feel daunting. Rest assured, licensed Medicare advisors and licensed agents can help you in a professional, respectful, and supportive manner. Finding the right professional and solution is one of our top priorities.
Please don’t hesitate to call 877-977-7026—a Medicare advisor and licensed agent is available to assist you every step of the way. Please fill out the following 'INQUIRY FORM' to request assistance in finding the right solution.
