Through the Medicare program, millions of Americans receive affordable health care insurance. Some choose to enroll in Original Medicare, while others enroll in Medicare Advantage. Through Medicare Advantage, you can receive extra benefits that aren’t available with Original Medicare, making these plans desirable to people who want more from their coverage.
If you’re wondering what extra benefits are available through Medicare Advantage, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Original Medicare?
Original Medicare is the traditional Medicare program. It consists of Part A hospital insurance and Part B medical insurance. Most Medicare beneficiaries rely on Original Medicare as their primary insurance plan. Through it, they receive coverage that helps pay for hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, medically necessary services, and preventive health services. If you are enrolled in Original Medicare, you can also get prescription drug coverage by purchasing a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
What Is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage plans are offered under Part C of the Medicare program. Part C plans are sold by private insurance companies contracted with Medicare to provide Medicare beneficiaries with their benefits. You get the same benefits as you would with Original Medicare through a Medicare Advantage plan, except some Medicare Advantage plans also have additional benefits that aren’t available through Original Medicare.
What Extra Benefits Are Available Through Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage plans are versatile. You get coverage that helps you afford basic medical services, but you can also get benefits that cover essential needs, like vision, hearing, and dental coverage. Such benefits aren’t available through Original Medicare, making Medicare Advantage the best option for individuals who want the most out of their public health insurance.
Medicare Advantage plans can also provide a variety of other extra benefits. Some of the benefits you might find include:
- Prescription drug coverage
- Meal delivery
- Fitness memberships
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Nicotine replacement therapy
- In-home support
- Personal care services
- Social worker teleservices
- Caregiver support services
- Home modifications
- Expanded telehealth services
Do You Need Extra Benefits?
You may not be sure whether you need extra benefits, but it’s up to you to decide. If you are struggling to determine whether Medicare Advantage is right for you, don’t make the decision alone. Magellan Healthcare can help guide you through the decision-making process. Just call us at 866-779-3553 to consult with one of our agents.
