Medicare Advantage in Eugene, OR

Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, is a health coverage option offered through private insurance companies as an alternative to Original Medicare. These plans are required to provide at least the same benefits as Original Medicare, and many add coverage that Original Medicare does not include. Most people become eligible for Medicare Advantage once they are enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B.

What Is Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage plans are sold by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare to provide your Part A and Part B benefits. They must offer coverage that is at least equal to Original Medicare, and most plans also build in additional benefits.

Most Medicare Advantage plans also include Part D prescription drug coverage, and some plans add extra benefits such as dental, vision, hearing and fitness programs. To enroll, you must already have Part A and Part B in place, and you can generally only join, switch or drop a Medicare Advantage plan during specific enrollment periods set by Medicare.

When Do I Enroll in Medicare?

Your first chance to enroll is usually your Initial Enrollment Period, a seven month window built around your 65th birthday or, for those under 65 who qualify due to disability, around your 25th month of disability benefits. After that, the Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7 each year, and current Medicare Advantage members get another opportunity to switch plans or return to Original Medicare during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 through March 31. Missing these windows can limit your options until the next enrollment period opens, so it helps to plan ahead with an agent.

Medicare Advantage Plan Types

There are several types of Medicare Advantage plans, including:

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans
Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) plans
Special Needs Plans (SNP)
Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) plans

Plan availability varies by location and carrier, and some plans may include additional benefits not listed here. Contact your agent for details on which options are available in your area.

Contact Us

Medicare Advantage can be a good fit for people who want their hospital, medical and often prescription drug coverage combined into a single plan through one carrier. Choosing the right plan depends on your health needs, budget and the providers you want to keep seeing.

Our experienced team can help you compare Medicare Advantage plans and enroll in the coverage that fits your needs. Contact us today for more information.