What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 or older, though some younger individuals with certain disabilities may also qualify. Medicare is made up of several parts, each covering different types of healthcare services:
Part A covers hospital stays and inpatient care.
Part B covers medical visits, outpatient care, and some preventive services.
Original Medicare, which includes Parts A and B, provides a foundation of healthcare coverage for many older adults and qualifying individuals with disabilities.
What is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage, or Part C, is an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits through a private insurance plan. These plans cover the same services as Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and often provide additional benefits, such as vision, dental, or prescription drug coverage.
Eligibility and Enrollment
To be eligible for a Medicare Advantage plan, you must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, live within the service area of a Medicare Advantage provider, and not have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) in most cases.
For those who are eligible, enrollment periods are available during specific times each year, including the Initial Enrollment Period and the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7.
Differences Between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare
Original Medicare provides basic health coverage directly through the federal government, whereas Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers who contract with Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans may include additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare.
Some individuals prefer the flexibility of Original Medicare, while others find that Medicare Advantage’s additional benefits and out-of-pocket cost limits meet their needs better.
Resources to Learn More
For more detailed information about Medicare Advantage and other Medicare options, consider visiting these resources: