Submitted by Vasilios “Voss” Speros, Arizona Medicare LLC

What Are Medicare Advantage Plans?
Medicare Advantage Plans are a type of Medicare health plan offered by a private company that contracts with Medicare to provide all your Part A and Part B benefits. Most Medicare Advantage Plans also offer prescription drug coverage. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, Medicare services are covered through the plan, as well as extra benefits beyond what original Medicare covers.

Not all Medicare Advantage Plans work the same way. Before you join, take the time to find and compare Medicare health plans in your area.

If you’re on Medicare and you opted for a Medicare Advantage plan instead of a Medicare Supplement plan, there’s something you should know. The majority of plans cover dental, vision, hearing, gym memberships, and even over-the-counter health products.

Check to see if you have this coverage and take the time to read the fine print to make sure you understand how these added benefits work. There are usually annual benefits and allowances that cost. Make sure to utilize them every year.

The dental and vision providers might be limited to the specific network your Medicare Advantage Plan offers. That’s why it is always good to call the customer service line on your card or the agent that helped you sign up for your plan.

When can I join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage Plan?
January 1st through March 31st is open enrollment time for Medicare Advantage plans. During this time, you may switch your current Medicare advantage plan to another if you would like.

What’s required to join a Medicare Advantage Plan?

• You must live in the service area of the plan you want to join. The plan can give you more information about its service area.
• If you live in another state for part of the year, ask if the plan will cover you there.
• You have Medicare Part A and Part B.
• You don’t have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

Have questions? I’m here to help! If you want to know more about Advantage Plans, Arizona Medicare or Medicaid, allow me to help you with information and resources; contact Voss at Arizona Medicare 480-999-4409. Back to Top