How Do Medicare Advantage Plans Work?

Medicare is a government-run health-insurance program for people 65 and older, as well as individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities.

So, how exactly does Medicare Advantage (Part C) work — and does it operate in the same way that original Medicare does?

Medicare Advantage plans are Medicare plans that are sold by commercial insurance companies throughout the country. These companies have signed a contract with Medicare to provide the same services that Original Medicare. Any hospital services covered by Medicare Part A and any medical services covered by Medicare Part B are included.

Some Medicare Advantage plans also include coverage for extra medical requirements, such as:

• Dental

• Vision

• Hearing

• Prescription Drugs

This coverage, however, varies by plan, and each Medicare Advantage plan can choose which extra benefits to provide.

Insurance companies also choose which Medicare Advantage plan structures they offer. The most popular Advantage plan alternatives are Health Maintenance Organization and Preferred Provider Organization plans.

Some companies also provide supplementary services to fulfill specific requirements, such as:

• Private Fee-For-Service Plans

• Special Needs Plans

• Medicare Savings Account Plans

Only after you've enrolled in original Medicare are you eligible to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Bottom Line

When calling insurance experts for medical insurance Oregon or health insurance plans in Oregon, check if the company is certified and has professional agents.