Medicare Advantage: Pros and Cons

​Medicare Advantage (also known as Medicare Part C or "MA" for short) is one of the most popular private insurance substitutes for Medicare. Private insurance companies offer Medicare Advantage plans. However, there are pros and cons to Medicare Advantage. In this article is a list of the advantages and disadvantages of choosing an MA plan.

What is Medicare Advantage?
People might often wonder which is better between Medicare Advantage Plan or Original Medicare. However, there is no simple answer because the two have different key features that may not match each other's personal preferences. Below are some of the essential pros and cons of Medicare Advantage Plans.

Medicare Advantage Pros 
The Medicare Advantage program gives people an alternate way to get their Medicare Part A and Part B coverage. Most Medicare Advantage plans may include prescription drug, dental, or hearing care coverage. 

1. Medicare Advantage Plans May Cost You Less
   Although this plan requires the insured to pay for the Part B deductible, they often can get a zero premium policy. This policy means that there won't be any more payments for the additional benefits. 
2. Medicare Advantage Provides Additional Benefits.
   Medicare Advantage plans offer added benefits and have the same coverage level as Medicare Part A and Part B. These benefits include coverage for vision, hearing, dental, prescription, and even fitness center memberships.
3. Medicare Advantage Has Customized Plan Structures.
   Medicare Advantage has different plan types for personal situations. For example, if the individual has a chronic health condition, an SNP Advantage helps cover medical costs.

Medicare Advantage Cons
While there are many advantages in getting Medicare Advantage, this plan may also come with cons when compared to original Medicare.

1. Medicare Advantage Has a Local Network.
   Medicare is more restricted than Original Medicare and usually works only with regional networks. It means that if the individual goes out of the network, Medicare Advantage may not cover their medical bills. 
2. Medicare Advantage Plans Are Not Uniform.
   Unlike Medicare Supplements, Medical Advantage plans are not standardized when it comes to coverage. Some programs may have more benefits than others, so finding the best one in the area at a low cost might be challenging.
3. Medicare Advantage Has an Additional Cost for Coverage.
   Medicare Advantage plans often combine the costs of premium, deductibles, and other fees, but it is noticeable that there are still additional fees. In regards to that, most Medicare Advantage plans include drug deductibles and specialist visit costs. 

At Art of Medicare, we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (702) 776-7726 or Click Here to request a free quote.