Medicare Advantage (MA), also called Medicare Part C, are private insurance plans offered by Medicare-approved companies.
Medicare explained
Compare Medicare Advantage plansWhat is a Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plan?
Table of contents
What does Medicare Advantage cover?
Medicare Advantage plans cover all the inpatient and outpatient services that Medicare
Some of the medically necessary services covered by Medicare Advantage plans and Original Medicare include:
- Primary care and specialist doctor visits
- Laboratory tests
- X-rays
- Emergency ambulatory services
- Durable medical equipment
- Preventive tests and vaccines
- Physical therapy
Medicare Advantage plans can also include prescription drug coverage. To get the same coverage with Original Medicare, you’d have to buy a separate prescription drug plan and pay a separate premium.
Get more with a Medicare Advantage plan
Medicare Advantage plans help expand your Medicare coverage beyond Original Medicare, often with extra benefits. Explore Humana’s Medicare Advantage plans in your area today!
Extra benefits included with a Medicare Advantage plan
Since MA plans are offered by private companies, they can be customized with extra benefits. Some benefits may provide coverage for:
- Routine dental care (dental exams, X-rays, teeth cleanings)
- Routine vision care (eye exams, eyeglasses and contacts)
- Routine hearing care (hearing tests, hearing aids)
- Fitness programs
- Gym memberships
- Over-the-counter drugs
MA plans can also be customized to treat specific conditions and diseases.
What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare?
The main difference is Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private companies and Original Medicare is administered by the federal government.
To learn more about the differences, check out this helpful
Types of Medicare Advantage plans
Here’s a quick look at some common Medicare Advantage plans:
Plan | Details |
|---|---|
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) | |
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) | |
Private Fee-For-Service (PFFS) | A |
Special Needs Plan (SNP) | |
Medical Savings Account (MSA) | MSAs combines a high-deductible plan with a designated savings account. These plans do not include prescription drug coverage. |
HMO Point-of-Service (HMO-POS) | These hybrid HMOs let you go outside the network for treatment but may have a higher cost. There can be separate deductibles for in-network and out-of-network costs. |
For more detailed information, see
Frequently asked questions
How much do Medicare Advantage plans cost?
The cost for Medicare Advantage plans depend on the plan and the company. The projected average premium for a Medicare Advantage plan in 2025 is $17 per month, but there are other costs to consider, such as copays and deductibles.1
How do I enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan?
Your first chance to sign up for Medicare Advantage is during your
If you have Original Medicare and want to enroll in Medicare Advantage for the first time, you can choose a Medicare Advantage plan during
If you’re already enrolled in Medicare Advantage, you can switch plans during the
Do I need a Medicare Advantage plan?
Everyone has different health needs. If you have a chronic condition or need routine medical care, the comprehensive coverage of a Medicare Advantage could make sense. Set aside time to research MA plans that fit your needs, make a list and choose the 1 that benefits you the most.
Source
- “
Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Programs to Remain Stable as CMS Implements Improvements to the Programs in 2025 ,” CMS.gov, last accessed Nov. 13, 2024.
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