What Is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare that provides coverage for hospital care, doctor visits, and often extras like dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drugs. These plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare and become available once you turn 65.
While Medicare Advantage is a great fit for many people, it’s not the right solution for everyone.
That’s why it’s important to speak with someone licensed and experienced who understands your unique needs. Lynn and her team—your trusted, licensed professionals at Pro Compare Medicare—will walk you through your options, compare plans available in your Oklahoma county, and help you decide if Medicare Advantage is the right fit for your health, budget, and lifestyle.
What Is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, is a popular alternative to Original Medicare that combines the benefits of Part A (hospital coverage) and Part B (medical coverage) into a single, all-in-one plan. These plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare, not the federal government. Many Medicare Advantage plans also include extra benefits like prescription drug coverage (Part D), dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs—all under one plan.
What Does a Medicare Advantage Plan Cover?
Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) are offered by private insurance companies and provide all the coverage you’d get from Original Medicare—plus more. These plans combine Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), and many also include extra benefits you won’t find in Original Medicare.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s included:
Medicare Part A (Included in Advantage Plans)
Covers hospital stays and most inpatient care, including:
Skilled nursing facility care
Hospice care
Rehabilitation services
Limited home health care
Medicare Part B (Also Included)
Covers outpatient care like:
Doctor visits and preventive services
Physical therapy and lab work
Mental health care
Durable medical equipment
Additional Medicare Advantage Benefits
Many Medicare Advantage plans go above and beyond Original Medicare, offering:
- Prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- Dental, vision, and hearing benefits
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Wellness and fitness programs
- Telehealth services
- In some cases, tailored benefits for those with chronic health conditions
These benefits vary based on the plan and provider, so it’s important to review your options carefully. That’s where we come in.
Why Medicare Advantage Might Be the Right Choice for You
Original Medicare provides important coverage, but it has limits—especially when it comes to out-of-pocket costs. For example:
After 60 days in the hospital, you’ll pay $389/day (2024)
After 90 days, that jumps to $778/day
Those costs can add up fast—especially if you’re managing a long-term illness.
Medicare Advantage plans can help protect you from those high costs, while also offering valuable benefits not covered by Parts A and B. Imagine having coverage for a toothache, eye exam, or even a ride to your next doctor’s appointment—that’s the kind of everyday peace of mind Advantage plans can bring.
How Much Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cost?
One of the biggest benefits of Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans is affordability—many people are surprised to learn that some plans even have $0 monthly premiums! But your total cost will depend on a few key factors, including your location, the plan you choose, and how often you use healthcare services.
What Affects the Cost of Medicare Advantage?
While Medicare Advantage plans often cost less per month than Medicare Supplement plans, they usually come with higher out-of-pocket costs when you receive care. Here are a few things that can impact what you pay:
Your plan’s monthly premium (many are $0, but some do charge a small fee)
Co-pays or co-insurance for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and specialists
How often you need medical care and the types of services you use
Whether your plan helps cover your Medicare Part B premium
Out-of-network costs, especially if you choose a plan like an HMO
Annual out-of-pocket maximum—the built-in limit that protects you from excessive expenses
To enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll still need to be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, and continue paying your Part B premium. You may also have to pay more for services outside your provider network, unless it’s an emergency.
HMO Plans & Provider Networks
If you join a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plan, keep in mind that:
You’ll typically need to see providers within your plan’s network
Out-of-network care is not covered, except in emergencies, urgent care, or dialysis
Referrals may be required to see specialists
That’s why choosing the right plan—based on your doctors, prescriptions, and medical needs—is so important.
Pros and Cons of Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage (Part C) can be a great option—but like any coverage, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Every Medicare plan comes with its own set of benefits and trade-offs, which is why it’s important to take a closer look before making a decision.
At Pro Compare Medicare, Lynn and her team takes the time to help you understand the pros and cons of Medicare Advantage so you can choose a plan that fits your needs—not just now, but for the years ahead.
Pros of Medicare Advantage Plans:
All-in-one coverage: Combines hospital, medical, and often prescription drug benefits
Extra perks: May include dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs, and more
$0 premium options: Many plans have low or no monthly premiums
Out-of-pocket protection: Annual limits help cap your total spending
Coordinated care: HMO and PPO plans often streamline your provider network for easier access
Potential Cons to Consider:
- Network restrictions: You may need to stay within your plan’s provider network
Out-of-pocket costs: You may pay more at the time of service compared to Medigap
Plan variation: Benefits can change each year—reviewing your plan annually is essential
Referrals may be required: Some plans may need a referral to see a specialist
Let’s Get Medicare Right — Together
Don’t let Medicare stress you out. At Pro Compare Medicare, you get more than just answers — you get a real partner in your corner.
Lynn and her team offers free, personalized guidance designed to make your journey smooth, simple, and totally tailored to you.
📞 Call 1-918-913-8199 now to book your no-pressure, no-cost consultation — and take the first step toward Medicare made easy.
