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Best Medicare Advantage Plans

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Did you know that instead of choosing Original Medicare, you can turn to a Medicare Advantage plan to get your Medicare benefits? Many private companies offer Medicare Advantage plans, also called Medicare Part C or MA plans, to those who qualify for Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans deliver your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits along with other perks, such as dental services, prescription drug coverage, fitness programs, and hearing benefits. Below, we’ll explore our top picks for Medicare Advantage plan carriers.

How We Chose the Best Medicare Advantage Plans

Comparing and choosing a Medicare Advantage plan that meets your needs can feel downright overwhelming. We’ve narrowed down the choices to our top picks for Medicare Advantage plans and assigned accolades to help you differentiate between them. To do this, we evaluated criteria like price, extra perks, third-party ratings, customer service, and availability.

    A Closer Look at the Best Advantage Plans

  • 1. Humana

    Overview

    Humana’s Medicare Advantage plans are available in more counties than any other MA carrier. They serve 85 percent of counties across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. More than 4 million individuals are currently enrolled in a Humana Medicare Advantage Plan. To stay competitive, the company offers a wide variety of plan types at different price points to help you find an option that fits your budget and needs.

    Humana Medicare Advantage Plans

    • Plans with and without prescription drug coverage
    • HMO plans
    • PPO plans
    • PFFS plans
    • SNPs

    Along with providing your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits, many of Humana’s plans include extra perks and services at no additional cost. These include vision care, dental care, hearing care, prescription drug coverage, transportation, healthy meal assistance, meal delivery, and a SilverSneakers fitness program membership.

    Pros
    • Available in 50 states and D.C.
    • $0 premium options
    • 4 plan types
    • Many plans include Part D
    • Wide range of extra perks
    • User-friendly website
    Cons
    • Not all plans are available in all locations
    • Benefits vary by plan

    The Bottom Line

    Since their plans are readily available across the nation, Humana is a great option for most seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries to consider. Their website is very user-friendly, so it’s simple to see what plans are available in your area and what the benefits are. It’s easy to get in touch with customer service too. Humana’s customer service team is available via email, online chat, over the phone, on Twitter, and by mail.

    To see what else Humana has to offer, check out our Humana Medicare Advantage review.

  • 2. Anthem

    Overview

    Anthem is the second largest health carrier in the United States.1 With close to 80 years in the healthcare industry, Anthem provides coverage to over 30 million subscribers. As part of the Elevance Health family of companies, Anthem supports health at every stage of life. For individuals struggling with chronic conditions, needing institutional care, or living on a limited income, Anthem offers all three Medicare Advantage special needs plans (SNPs).

    Anthem Medicare Advantage Plans

    • HMO plans
    • PPO plans
    • D-SNPs
    • C-SNPs
    • I-SNPs

    Many of Anthem’s SNPs have a $0 or low monthly premium and $0 deductible. Benefits may include transportation assistance, a dedicated care team, free healthy meals, and a personal emergency response system (PERS). Medicare SNPs may also cover extra services tailored to the special groups they serve.2

    Pros
    • Multiple Medicare Advantage SNPs
    • $0 premium plans
    • Personal home helper
    • SilverSneakers fitness membership
    • Supplemental dental and vision plans available
    • Healthy meals and groceries program
    Cons
    • SNPs vary by location
    • No PFFS plans

    The Bottom Line

    Anthem’s range of HMO, PPO, and SNPs is impressive. With diverse plan options, price points, and benefits, Anthem may be an excellent contender in your search for a Part C plan that supports your health care needs. For an in-depth look at Anthem’s plan offerings, read our Anthem Medicare Advantage review. Keep in mind, with coverage in just 14 states, Anthem does lag behind its competitors, so check to see if this carrier is available in your area.

  • 3. Aetna

    Overview

    Aetna, a CVS-owned company, is the fourth-largest carrier of Medicare Advantage plans. Their user-friendly website makes it easy to find plans in your area that deliver the services you need. Plus, most searchers can find affordable plans with far more perks than Original Medicare. Aetna estimates that 84 percent of Medicare-eligible beneficiaries have access to an Aetna Part C plan with a $0 monthly premium.3

    Aetna Medicare Advantage Plans

    • Plans with and without prescription drug coverage
    • HMO plans
    • HMO-POS plans
    • PPO plans
    • D-SNPs

    In addition to your Original Medicare benefits, Aetna’s $0 premium plans may include prescription drug coverage, hearing aid coverage, vision care, dental care, a quarterly OTC allowance, free meals after an inpatient stay, and a SilverSneakers fitness membership. Now that’s a lot of perks for $0 a month!

    Pros
    • Easy plan finder tool
    • Transparent pricing
    • Low premiums and deductibles
    • Wide range of benefits
    • Variety of plans available
    • Affordable walk-in clinic access with PPO and HMO plans
    Cons
    • Expensive stand-alone Part D plans
    • No PFFS plans
    • Not every plan covers the Part B premium

    The Bottom Line

    Aetna gives seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries across the country widespread access to $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans. If reducing your monthly costs is a priority, check to see if Aetna has an affordable plan available near you. Experience, excellent value, and an affiliation with CVS Health’s network of Minute Clinic locations give Aetna an edge over other carriers. For more information, read our latest Aetna Medicare Advantage plans review.

    FYI:

    FYI: If you decide to choose Original Medicare instead of a Medicare Advantage plan, you might want to purchase a Medigap plan to fill in coverage gaps. Aetna’s Medicare supplements plans offer excellent value.

  • 4. Wellcare

    Overview

    For over 20 years, Wellcare has provided coverage to Medicare-eligible individuals. As part of Centene Corporation, Wellcare has become one of the largest managed care organizations in the U.S., serving one in 15 Americans. With coverage options in 36 states, Wellcare provides Medicare Advantage insurance to over 1 million members. Their wide range of plans featuring no-cost health and wellness benefits is noteworthy.

    Wellcare Medicare Advantage Plans

    • HMO plans
    • PPO
    • PFFS plans
    • C-SNPs
    • D-SNPs

    Wellcare offers an assortment of zero-dollar premium plans. Several of Wellcare’s plans may include no-cost healthy living support, including preventative care services like flu shots, annual checkups, and mammograms. Some coverage comes with a free fitness membership and discounts on alternative and complementary medicine. Talk about supporting whole-body health!

    Pros
    • Extensive healthy living benefits
    • Part D is included in most plans
    • Many $0 premium plan options
    • 24/7 nurse hotline
    • Telehealth visits
    • Dental, vision, and hearing allowance
    Cons
    • Plan options depend heavily on service area

    The Bottom Line

    If you’re searching for a Medicare Advantage plan that’s packed with free health and wellness support, Wellcare may be a solid contender. Many Wellcare plans include an OTC program with an allowance for healthy lifestyle essentials to keep you in tip-top shape. Some plans include a free fitness membership and valuable discounts on services like acupuncture and massage. Wellcare’s Flex card benefits come with supplemental funds to use for dental, vision, and hearing services beyond your plan benefits.

  • 5. AARP

    Overview

    AARP endorses select Medicare Advantage plans provided by UnitedHealthcare. They’re marketed under the AARP name and tend to be more popular than the stand-alone plans offered by UnitedHealthcare. Anyone who qualifies for Medicare and lives in a covered area can apply for an AARP Medicare Advantage plan. You don’t have to be an AARP member.

    AARP Medicare Advantage Plans

    • Plans with and without prescription drug coverage
    • HMO plans
    • HMO-POS plans
    • PPO plans
    • PFFS plans
    • SNPs

    AARP also offers a Medicare Advantage plan that was created with veterans in mind. If you have TRICARE for Life, consider the AARP Medicare Advantage Patriot Plan. You can visit any in-network doctor or hospital for a $0 monthly premium. Plus, it complements your existing coverage by adding on $0 preventive dental care, $0 routine hearing exams and savings on hearing aids, a free gym membership, free eye exams, and credits applied to your Medicare Part B premium.

    Pros
    • Over 60 plans offered
    • $0 premium plans
    • Low-cost PPO plans
    • Plans with dental, vision, and hearing benefits
    • $0 copay for virtual doctor’s appointments
    • Large national provider network
    Cons
    • Below-average ratings for customer service in some areas
    • Certain plans can get pricey

    The Bottom Line

    While AARP offers excellent plan options for veterans, it’s easy for many seniors to find a plan that might fit their medical and budgetary needs. With AARP, you get common benefits like vision, hearing, and dental care. Plus, more unusual perks like free virtual doctor’s appointments, free virtual mental health care, and a free personal emergency response system. Read our AARP Medicare Advantage Plans review to help you decide if an AARP plan is right for you.

  • 6. UnitedHealthCare

    Overview

    UnitedHealthcare is the largest American health insurance company. In 2021, it was the largest carrier of Medicare Advantage plans.4 This company offers dozens of Medicare Advantage plans across 28 states.

    UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plans

    • Plans with and without prescription drug coverage
    • HMO plans
    • HMO-POS plans
    • PPO plans
    • PFFS plans
    • SNP plans

    UnitedHealthcare offers extra perks with many of its plans. These include the Renew Active fitness program, dental care, vision care with a frame allowance, and hearing care. And, if you prefer to stay home when you’re not feeling well, UnitedHealthcare even offers $0 copay virtual provider visits for non-emergency medical appointments and mental health conditions. The virtual provider can refill prescriptions, write you prescriptions for common ailments, and make recommendations on whether you should seek in-person care — all for free!

    Pros
    • $0 premium plans
    • OTC credits each quarter
    • Reduced copays
    • Plans with dental, vision, and hearing benefits
    • $0 copay for virtual doctor’s appointments
    • Large national provider network
    Cons
    • High-price SNP plans
    • Plan availability varies from location to location
    • Below-average customer service ratings

    The Bottom Line

    UnitedHealthcare boasts a large provider network and more Medicare Advantage plan enrollees than any other company. If you’re looking for a reputable company with proven experience with Part C plans, UnitedHealthcare is a great place to start your search. Their unique $0 copay for virtual visits sets them apart from others, especially when not everyone wants to leave their home for a doctor’s appointment.

    Learn more about the company’s Part C plans in our most recent UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan review.

  • 7. Kaiser

    Overview

    The Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Inc. is part of Kaiser Permanente, one of the largest nonprofit health plans in the U.S. Kaiser makes up only 7 percent of total Medicare Advantage enrollment, but those who enroll are very satisfied. In 2021, Kaiser ranked the highest in Medicare Advantage plan overall satisfaction from J.D. Power.5 The study considers coverage and benefits, provider choice, cost, customer service, information and communication, and billing and payment. In 2022, all Kaiser Permanente Medicare Advantage plans received a 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) — the highest score possible.6 No other carrier achieved this.

    Kaiser Medicare Advantage Plans

    • Plans with and without prescription drug coverage
    • HMO plans
    • SNPs

    Along with offering Medicare Part A and B coverage, Kaiser’s plans may include Part D prescription drug coverage; routine dental, hearing, and vision care; a fitness program; and home-delivered meals. You can also add on an Advantage Plan, which includes a hearing aid allowance, an eyewear allowance, and dental coverage if your plan doesn’t include it already.

    Pros
    • 5-star CMS rating
    • Highest member satisfaction rating from J.D. Power
    • Most plans include drug coverage
    • Routine dental, hearing, and vision care available
    • Fitness benefits available
    Cons
    • Only available in eight states and D.C.
    • Only HMO plans available

    The Bottom Line

    Kaiser has a limited service area, but this company is certainly worth checking out if you live in a served area. They beat out every other carrier in terms of member satisfaction and CMS star rating. Just keep in mind that Kaiser offers HMO plans only. This means that you’ll need to choose a primary care provider, stay in-network for your care, and get referrals for specialist visits. Given the stellar reviews, those limitations don’t seem to bother current customers.

    Did You Know?

    Did You Know? Even if your Medicare Advantage plan doesn’t come with hearing aid coverage, you could still qualify for free or reduced-price hearing aids.

  • 8. Blue Cross Blue Shield

    Overview

    Blue Cross Blue Shield is made up of a network of 34 independent carriers. Collectively, they were the third-largest Medicare Advantage plan carrier in 2021.7 This company offers plans in 47 states and Puerto Rico, so it’s likely that there’s a plan in your area.

    Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage Plans

    • Plans with and without prescription drug coverage
    • HMO plans
    • HMO-POS plans
    • PPO plans
    • PFFS plans
    • SNPs

    Since Blue Cross Blue Shield is a network of different carriers, they’re able to offer an impressive variety of plan types and benefits to meet your needs. In fact, BCBS offers the most plan options in a county — in six counties, you can choose from 18 different plans. Some of the plans even have different levels, so you can choose the one that best fits your budget and comes with the features you want.

    Pros
    • Plans available in 47 states
    • Wide variety of plans available
    • $0 premium plans in 45 states
    • Easy to compare plans online
    • Hearing aid allowance with some plans
    Cons
    • Ratings vary between plans and locations
    • Limited SNP availability

    The Bottom Line

    Since Blue Cross Blue Shield is made up of independent companies, customer satisfaction can vary. It’s always important to check ratings for any plan you’re considering, but it’s especially important with BCBS. Fortunately, you’ll have spare time to check ratings since their online plan finding tool is so easy to use. Clear definitions and comparison charts make understanding their plans’ costs and benefits easy. Overall, given the wide variety of plans available and their user-friendly website, Blue Cross Blue Shield is worth checking out.

    See what else we love about BCBS in our Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage review.

  • 9. Cigna

    Overview

    Cigna is a health insurance company that was formed in 1982. Today, it’s the seventh-largest carrier of Medicare Advantage plans. Along with providing a variety of plans and benefits, including prescription drug coverage and routine dental, vision, and eye care, Cigna makes its mark in the industry by offering excellent customer service.

    Navigating healthcare decisions, benefits, and claims can be frustrating, especially when you’re not able to reach a customer service agent. Cigna tries to remedy this problem by having live customer service representatives available by phone 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. Whether you’re confused about coverage or need help understanding a claim, help is only a phone call away no matter what time it is.

    Cigna Medicare Advantage Plans

    • Plans with and without prescription drug coverage
    • HMO plans
    • PPO plans
    • SNPs
    Pros
    • $0 premium plan available in every market
    • Part D plans available in all 50 states
    • 24/7 live customer service
    • Variety of benefits and perks available
    • Access to pharmacy and case managers
    Cons
    • Most plans are HMOs, so you’re limited to Cigna’s in-network providers
    • Plans are available in 26 states only
    • Not all plans include dental coverage

    The Bottom Line

    If customer service matters to you, check if Cigna offers plans in your area. Along with 24/7 live customer service, some plans even include 24/7 telehealth. Easily reach a qualified medical professional whenever you need to for minor medical issues. Other perks offered include a fitness membership, OTC allowance, transportation services, case management, and home-delivered meals.

    Read our latest Cigna Medicare Advantage review to learn more.

Comparing the Best Medicare Advantage Plans 2023

Let’s take a look at how the different Medicare Advantage carriers stack up against one another. Just keep in mind that not all plans are available in every location and not every plan includes all of the benefits offered by the carrier.

Medicare Advantage carrier Average CMS rating Coverage area Part D plans available? Routine hearing, dental, and vision benefits? Additional benefits Enrollment
Humana 4.1 out of 58 Offers plans in 85% of counties in all 50 states and D.C. Yes Yes SilverSneakers fitness membership
Insulin savings program
OTC allowance
Healthy foods card
Meal delivery program
Wigs
Transportation
4.8 million
Anthem 3.92 out of 5 Offers plans in 14 states Yes Yes SilverSneakers fitness membership
24/7 telehealth visits
Medical alert system
Non-medical transportation
Personal home helper
Supplemental allowance for dental, vision, and hearing
Healthy meals and groceries program
Health and fitness tracker
Assistive devices credit
More than 1.2 million
Aetna 4.29 out of 59 Offers plans in 46 states and D.C. Yes Yes SilverSneakers fitness membership
OTC health item allowance
Worldwide emergency coverage
Telehealth services
Care management help
Healthy Home Visit program
Meals program
Prescription home delivery
24-hour nurse line
More than 3.1 million
Wellcare 3.6 out of 5 Offers plans in 36 states Yes Yes Fitness membership
Over-the-counter savings program
24-hour nurse advice line
Dental, vision, and hearing allowance
Non-medical transportation
Cash back and gift card rewards program
LifeMart membership
Alternative and complementary medicine discounts
More than 1 million
AARP 4.2 out of 5 Offers plans in 48 states and D.C. Yes Yes Renew Active fitness program
Over-the-counter product allowance
Meal benefit
Chiropractic care
Acupuncture
$0 copay virtual medical visits
$0 copay virtual mental health visits
Non-medical transportation
Personal emergency response system
More than 4 million
UnitedHealthcare 4 out of 5 Offers plans in 48 states and D.C. Yes Yes Renew Active fitness program
Over-the-counter product allowance
Meal benefit
Chiropractic care
Acupuncture
$0 copay virtual medical visits
$0 copay virtual mental health visits
Non-medical transportation
24/7 nurse helpline
Insulin copays of $35 or less
7.2 million
Kaiser 5 out of 5 Offers plans in 8 states and D.C. Yes Yes Gym memberships
Transportation
Home-delivered meals
OTC allowance
Eyewear allowance, hearing aid allowance, and dental benefits available at an additional cost
1.7 million
Blue Cross Blue Shield 4.1 out of 5 Offers plans in 47 states and Puerto Rico Yes Yes SilverSneakers fitness membership
Hearing aid allowance
Eyewear allowance
Healthy food and OTC allowance
Blue Cross virtual well-being webinars
Concierge program
Chronic condition management
Health and wellness product discounts
Virtual visit coverage
Blue Cross rewards program
3.8 million
Cigna 4.2 out of 5 26 states and D.C. Yes Yes Silver&Fit Healthy Aging and Exercise Program
24/7 Telehealth
Home-delivered meals
Transportation services
OTC allowance
Case management
Medication therapy management
600,000

What Is a Medicare Advantage Plan?

Medicare Advantage plans are an alternative way for you to receive Original Medicare benefits. Instead of getting Medicare Part A and Part B from Original Medicare, you can purchase a consolidated Medicare Advantage plan from private companies that serve your area. Just as with Original Medicare, you must meet Medicare eligibility requirements to enroll and must enroll during a designated enrollment period.

Did You Know?

Did You Know? Medicare Part A is your hospital insurance. It covers hospital stays, hospice, home health care, and more. Learn more about Part A benefits, costs, and coverage in our Guide to Medicare Part A.

What Do Medicare Advantage Plans Include?

Medicare Advantage plans always include Medicare Part A and Part B benefits. To stay competitive, they also throw in extra perks, which may include the following:

  • Part D prescription drug coverage
  • Dental care, including X-rays and cleanings
  • Vision care, including eye exams, a frame allowance, and lens coverage
  • Hearing care, which may include hearing aid coverage
  • Fitness program memberships
  • Transportation assistance
  • Insulin savings program
  • Post-hospitalization meal delivery
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) health and wellness allowance
  • 24/7 nurse line

Depending on the carrier and plan you choose, these extra perks may come at no additional cost to you. Instead, you’ll pay the same monthly premium that you’d pay if you’re enrolled in Original Medicare — your Part A (often $0) plus your Part B premium.

Is a Medicare Advantage Plan Right for Me?

Medicare Advantage plans make the Medicare marketplace more competitive and give you more choice with your health insurance benefits later in life. In some cases, choosing a Medicare Advantage plan may even save you money thanks to Part B payment assistance, where the carrier pays some of your Part B premium. Plus, you get the added security of dental, vision, and hearing benefits that Original Medicare leaves out.

Of course, there are some disadvantages with MA plans. Medicare Advantage plans come with geographical and network restrictions; you might not be able to see the doctors you’re currently seeing. And you might spend a lot more if you need to see an out-of-network provider.

Whether a Part C plan makes sense for you depends on a number of factors. In general, Medicare Advantage plans are a better fit for healthy adults who are fine seeing in-network providers. Many plans charge higher copays and deductibles, which can add up if you need to see specialists a lot.

For some seniors, the value of the benefits might outweigh any disadvantages. If you have certain medical conditions such as diabetes, a special needs Medicare Advantage plan and/or insulin savings program could help you save money. Or, if you wear hearing aids, a hearing aid benefit might make a Medicare Advantage plan worthwhile, despite higher deductibles and copays.

Pros About Medicare Advantage

  • Low-cost or $0 monthly premium plans available
  • Reduced Part B costs with some plans
  • Dental, vision, and hearing care
  • Potential insulin savings programs
  • May include Part D prescription drug coverage

Cons About Medicare Advantage

  • Choosing a plan can be time-consuming
  • Limited in-network providers
  • Some plans have high deductibles and copays

Types of Plans

Medicare Advantage carriers can offer some or all of the following plan types:

HMO

HMO (health maintenance organization) plans are the most popular type of Medicare Advantage plan. In 2021, 62 percent of all Medicare Advantage plans were HMOs. HMOs primarily cover in-network care, so you’re covered only if you visit doctors and medical facilities that partner with your insurer. Out-of-network care isn’t covered, which is why HMO plans tend to cost less than other plan types. Some plans have exceptions for emergencies, so you might receive coverage for out-of-network urgent care or dialysis. Most plans require referrals, so you must choose a primary care provider.

PPO

PPO (preferred provider organization) plans offer more flexibility than HMOs. PPOs have in-network providers like HMOs, but PPO plans allow you to see out-of-network providers. You’ll just owe a higher out-of-pocket cost. You don’t need referrals to see specialists, such as a cardiologist or podiatrist. This can make receiving care more efficient. In general, PPO plans cost more than HMOs.

HMO-POS

A mash-up of PPOs and HMOs, HMO-POS (point of service) plans require PCPs and referrals like an HMO but provide coverage for out-of-network providers like a PPO. Just expect to pay more for out-of-network care.

SNP

SNPs, or special needs plans, can be either PPOs or HMOs. But, unlike other PPO and HMO plans, they aren’t open to just anyone. SNPs provide coverage to individuals with specific healthcare needs, diseases, or conditions, such as chronic alcohol dependence, autoimmune disorders, diabetes, cancers, dementia, or end-stage liver disease. A specialized type, called a D-SNP, or dual-eligible SNP, covers people with a limited income by combining Medicare and Medicaid benefits.

MSA

Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) plans are uncommon but available from some carriers. This plan combines a high-deductible Medicare Advantage plan with a medical savings account that’s similar to a health savings account (HSA). The plan kicks in only after you’ve reached your deductible. However, part of your premium goes into the MSA account each month. You can use that money to pay for any Medicare-covered treatments or tests.

PFFS

Private fee-for-service (PFFS) plans let you go to any Medicare-approved medical facility, doctor, or healthcare provider. The doctor must agree to accept the plan’s terms. Some PFFS plans have provider networks, which means higher out-of-pocket costs for out-of-network care, while others don’t. PFFS plans always cover emergency care, so you’re covered even at out-of-network providers.

How Do I Choose the Best Medicare Advantage Plan?

Medicare Advantage plans aren’t one size fits all. That’s why it’s so important to think about your needs, your budget, and the options available in your area as you evaluate different plans. Here are a few tips:

1. Check if your doctors are in-network.

Many MA plans have provider networks. If you’d like to keep your current doctors, you’ll want to choose a plan where your doctors are in-network. If not, you might not be able to see them, or you’ll pay a higher copay for seeing an out-of-network provider. Fortunately, many carrier websites let you search for your doctor’s name to check coverage.

2. Evaluate the cost.

Make sure that you can afford the plan’s premiums, copays, and coinsurance. And ensure that you understand the deductible. A high deductible means that you’ll owe more out of pocket before your plan kicks in. In some cases, Part C plan perks can make up for higher costs in other areas; for example, a free gym membership, transportation assistance, or a hearing aid benefit.

3. Consider CMS star ratings.

CMS assigns star ratings to Medicare Advantage plans. This third-party rating reflects the experiences of people currently enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. One star represents poor performance, while five stars (the highest) represents excellent performance. Individual plans from carriers receive their own rating, so even a carrier with an overall low rating could have a five-star plan in your area.

4. Assess your own healthcare needs.

Think about which healthcare services are really important to you. Consider your current medical conditions, fitness habits, and medical history. For example, if you’d enjoy a SilverSneakers gym membership and want to maintain your dental health, prioritize plans with those benefits. If you have a chronic health condition, pay close attention to SNPs in your area. They could provide savings and essential services like a care coordinator who can help manage your illness.

5. Compare plans against Original Medicare.

Along with comparing Medicare Advantage plans head-to-head, you also need to compare Medicare Advantage plans to Original Medicare. Take into account how much Original Medicare costs and how much adding on a Medigap plan or Part D plan would cost. Make sure that a Medicare Advantage plan is helping you reach your goals, whether that’s lower premiums, more affordable copays, or more comprehensive care.

Written By

Sarah Goldy-Brown

Writer & Researcher

Sarah covers a range of senior lifestyle topics, from reviews of walk-in tubs and hearing aids to overviews of Medicare and Medicaid. Her close relationship with her grandparents gave her a firsthand look at the evolving life needs of older adults, and… Learn More About Sarah Goldy-Brown