The Medicare Advantage Program (Part C)

Known as Medicare + Choice in the past, Medicare Advantage program suits people who show are eligible to have Medicare health insurance. Medicare Advantage Program consists of those health insurance plans that are an in-demand and another powerful choice of option to the Medicare supplemental and the original Medicare plans.

Medicare Advantage plans (also called Medicare- Part C) also comprised the chance of enhanced prescription coverage. But, in 2006 since the Medicare Part D (a plan that covers prescriptions), clients now are required to make an agreement for plan of private prescription.

Whenever someone goes for a Medicare Advantage program, he/she may find that several insurance organizations providing those plans, also provide Medicare Part D (prescription plans). Buying both the plans proves to be beneficial in the long run owing to lesser additional costs.

The original Medicare costs and limitations can be a financial burden, especially in the case of prescription drugs. Thus, with the introduction of Medicare Part D prescription plan, people are rendered with a better insurance cover for health with reduced out-of-pocket expenses and several benefits.

Since, the plans' rate are decided through competition between insurance providers, an individual hence finds the most reasonable health plan e.g. Medicare Advantage Program giving excellent Medicare coverage and an another option for the original Medicare.

Generally, there are five managed care plans existing in the Medicare Advantage Program. These are:

The above mentioned Medicare Advantage managed health care plans may require on your behalf, a selection done for a Primary Care Physician (PCP), obtain a referral from the PCP to visit an expert. Moreover, take services from only those hospitals, doctors and medical amenities that fall in the network of the insurance provider’s health plan.

With plans like Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) you are not required to make a choice for PCP and a referral to visit an expert. Additionally, you are allowed to make a visit to any of the Medicare validated hospital or doctor. You may require making co-payments for all your visits to the doctor.

Medicare Advantage Program offers several health plans through private insurance companies that are authorized by Medicare. The Medicare Advantage plan/program contains an agreement to allot you with Medicare advantage benefits.

When you opt for a Medicare Advantage Program, in return it offers you health insurance benefits for:

• Medicare Part A (insurance that covers hospital)
• Medicare Part B (gives medical insurance cover involving emergency care)
• Medicare Part D (prescription drugs coverage [optional])
• General checkups, hearing, vision, dental, health & wellness programs (additional benefits)

The only Medicare health insurance benefit that is not included is the hospice/hospital care. This benefit is only covered by original Medicare insurance. You cannot avail this health benefit even if you opt for the Medicare Advantage Program.