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  • The Medicare Advantage Program, also known as Medicare Part C, was started in 1965 to give Medicare beneficiaries the option of choosing private health plans in addition to traditional fee-for-service plans.

    Eligibility

    Before you join a Medicare Advantage plan, you must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. People with end-stage kidney disease are not eligible for Medicare Advantage. Medicare Advantage plan beneficiaries cannot use their Medigap policy.

    Types

    The types of health plans available under the Medicare Advantage Program include: health maintenance organizations (HMOs), preferred provider organizations (PPOs), special needs plans (SNPs), private fee-for service (PFF) plans and medical savings account (MSA) plans.

    Coverage

    Except MSA plans, all other Medicare Advantage plans are required by law to provide coverage for all services accessible under Medicare Part A and Part B, except hospice care.

    Benefits

    Some of the additional benefits available through Medicare Advantage include prescription drug coverage, eye care, acupressure and annual physical exams.

    Significance

    Medicare Advantage plans are attractive options for Medicare beneficiaries because they provide extra health-care benefits for low monthly premiums.

    Source:

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Medicare Advantage Plans

    Center for Medicare Advocacy Inc.: Medicare Advantage

    The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation: Medicare Advantage fact sheet

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