Debunking Myths About Medicare Advantage Plans

With all of the “fake news” out there, it can be difficult to separate reality from falsehoods. Unfortunately, this can even carry over into healthcare, as it is a point of political contention for many Americans. As a result, many older adults aren’t getting accurate information about Medicare and Medicare Advantage. We’re here to set the record straight. Let’s take a look at the top 4 myths about Medicare Advantage plans that need to be debunked!

Myth: Medicare Advantage is More Expensive than Original Medicare

Fact: Medicare Advantage has a wide variety of plans with varied premiums, coverage options, and excess charges.

While many assume that a privately-brokered Medicare plan would be more expensive than Original Medicare, this is often not the case. Original Medicare is the same price for everyone. However, Medicare Advantage has various plans with different rates. In some cases, your monthly premiums could be as low as zero dollars! The truth is that some Medicare Advantage plans are more expensive, some are cheaper, and some are comparable to Original Medicare.

Myth: All Medicare Advantage Plans Include Part D Coverage

Fact: Most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription drug coverage.

While it’s true that most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D coverage, some don’t. For example, Medical Savings Account Plans and Private-Fee-For-Service Plans do not include Part D. However, you can still purchase Part D as a standalone plan with Medicare Advantage plans that don’t already include prescription drug coverage.

Myth: Enrolling In A Medicare Advantage Plan Means That You No Longer Have “Medicare”

Fact: Medicare Advantage is still Medicare.

Rather than having Part A and Part B (Original Medicare), Medicare Advantage is known as Medicare Part C. This means that you get all the same benefits that you would through a traditional Medicare plan. You can always switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage (or shop for a different Medicare Advantage plan) during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1st – March 31st).

Myth: Older Adults With Medicare Advantage Don’t Get Hearing, Dental, or Vision

Fact: Nearly 100% of Medicare Advantage plans include either hearing, dental, or vision, while more than 50% include all three.

One of the greatest benefits of switching from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage is that you get more benefits. Hearing, dental, and vision are some of the most common additional benefits. However, some Medicare Advantage plans also include a free annual wellness checkup.

The Bottom Line

There’s a lot of misinformation spread about Medicare Advantage. Since it’s supplied through a private broker, many people assume that it comes with the same pitfalls as some other private health insurance plans. Fortunately, this is not the case. Medicare Advantage comes with all the same protection and benefits as Original Medicare, plus a few extras!

If you’re interested in learning more about the Medicare Advantage plans, contact Time for 65’s licensed partnered agents today. or today to see how we can help.