When it comes to Medicare, there are several plan options available for those eligible for the federal healthcare program. When enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may find it challenging to understand which plan works best for your needs and which carrier has the best Medicare Advantage plans.
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Private insurance companies offer Medicare Advantage plans. So, costs and benefits vary between these plans, as do the needs of each enrollee. Thus, finding a comprehensive list of the best Medicare Advantage plans is difficult due to the varying needs. Unfortunately, there is no one plan that works for everyone.
Fortunately, we have compiled a strategy to help you determine the best Medicare Advantage Plans for you in 2023. While the answer may be different for everyone, it’s important to compare your options to discover which is right for you. Below, we’ll discuss how to make the call and break down why enrolling with a suitable carrier is just as important as finding the best benefits through well-established Medicare carriers.
What are the Best Medicare Advantage Plans?
Finding the best Medicare Advantage plans for your needs means you must fully understand what you need from the start. For example, is monthly premium a larger concern for you than cost sharing? Do you require a plan that covers prescription drugs? Are you looking for comprehensive coverage that may come with a higher monthly cost? You must know the answer to these questions and others similar before enrolling in the best Medicare Advantage plan for you.
Before determining the best Medicare Advantage plan for you, it is important to be sure the plan is available in your area. Medicare Advantage plans vary by ZIP Code. So, not only does the plan have to cover your needs, but it also must be available to you. Additionally, we recommended looking at a carrier’s nationwide ranking before assessing your options.
Some other factors you’ll want to review when enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan include:
- Carrier reputation
- Monthly premium
- Customer Satisfaction
After analyzing all aspects of a Medicare Advantage plan, if you feel it fits your needs perfectly, then it must be the best Medicare Advantage plan for you.
Best Medicare Advantage Plans for Additional Benefits
Additional benefits through Medicare Advantage plans are services and offerings that go beyond what is covered by traditional Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C plans, are offered by private insurance companies and must provide at least the same coverage as Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). However, many Medicare Advantage plans offer additional benefits that can help you better manage your health and wellness.
Determining which Medicare Advantage plan is best for you based on it’s additional benefits can be a personal decision based on your individual needs and preferences. However, it is essential to know which benefits are most important to you. This way, you’ll have an idea of the benefits you need your Medicare Advantage plan to offer.
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It’s important to note that not all Medicare Advantage plans offer the same additional benefits, and the availability of these benefits may vary by location. We recommend making a list of the services you wish to receive coverage for and finding a Medicare Advantage plan that offers what you are looking for.
Additionally, some plans may have restrictions or requirements for accessing these benefits, such as prior authorization or network limitations. Before enrolling in the best Medicare Advantage plan for you, it’s essential to review the plan’s benefits carefully and ensure that they meet your individual needs and preferences.
Best Low-Cost Medicare Advantage Plan
The best Medicare Advantage plans are often characterized by their low costs because they provide comprehensive benefits at an affordable monthly premium. These plans are designed to offer a variety of coverage options that go beyond the traditional Medicare Part A and Part B benefits while keeping premiums and out-of-pocket expenses as low as possible.
The best Medicare Advantage plans typically have lower costs than other types of insurance because they leverage a network of healthcare providers and negotiate rates with them. By working with a limited network of providers, these plans can offer lower costs for medical services, prescription drugs, and other healthcare expenses.
By prioritizing preventive care, Medicare Advantage plans can help avoid expensive hospital stays and emergency room visits, which can drive up healthcare costs.
Overall, the best Medicare Advantage plans prioritize affordability while still offering comprehensive coverage and a range of benefits. By keeping costs low and providing high-quality care, these plans can help you better manage your healthcare needs while maintaining their financial security.
Best Medicare Advantage Plan for Customer Satisfaction
Customer service is a critical factor to consider when determining the best Medicare Advantage plan for you because it can impact your overall experience with the plan and the quality of care you receive. The best Medicare Advantage plans not only offer additional benefits and affordable costs, but they also prioritize customer service to ensure that their members have a positive and satisfactory experience.
Good customer service can provide you with the support and guidance needed to navigate the complex healthcare system, understand benefits and costs, and resolve any issues or concerns you may have. This can include responsive customer service representatives, clear and timely communication, and easy-to-use online tools and resources.
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Overall, the best Medicare Advantage plans prioritize customer service to ensure that their members have a positive and satisfactory experience. By providing personalized support and guidance, responsive communication, and easy-to-use resources, these plans can help you better manage your healthcare needs and improve their overall health and well-being.
How to Compare the Best Medicare Advantage Plans for You
If you are unsure which Medicare Advantage is best for you, contact a licensed agent who will compare Medicare Advantage plans in your area today.
Our licensed agents can also help review other options such as Medicare Supplement plans with you to help you make an informed decision for your healthcare.
To find the best Medicare Advantage plan for your needs, call the number above or complete our free, no-obligation online rate form. We look forward to helping you throughout your Medicare journey!
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Sources:
MedicareFAQ is dedicated to providing you with authentic and trustworthy Medicare information. We have strict sourcing guidelines and work diligently to serve our readers with accurate and up-to-date content.
- Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare . Accessed May 2022.
https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/types-of-medicare-health-plans/medicare-advantage-plans - Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare. Accessed May 2022.
https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/12026-Understanding-Medicare-Advantage-Plans.pdf - How Do Medicare Advantage Plans Work, Medicare. Accessed May 2022.
https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/types-of-medicare-health-plans/medicare-advantage-plans/how-do-medicare-advantage-plans-work
My husband has Clover medicare advantage, he needs a back surgery but by a surgeon who is out of network, if my husband pays the doctor from his pocket, will the medicare advantage reimburse him knowing that the doctor does not take any type of medicare?
Jihan, unfortunately, if your husband’s surgery is performed by a surgeon who does not take Medicare, Medicare will not cover any of the costs or reimburse you for out-of-pocket costs. To be covered, you will need to seek out a surgeon who is in your plans network.
I really appreciate what you’re doing here..Answering questions…etc..,
Here is mine 🙂
I will be 65 in May this year… we are on obama care that’s my wife, daughter and I
So if I want to go on medicare because it’s a lot better than the $8500 deductible now..what will happen to my wife and daughter’s obama care?
Thank you for the compliment! We appreciate the feedback. When you leave your current plan because of Medicare eligibility, your wife and daughter will still be able to continue their Marketplace coverage.
Greetings! Great site! hAve AARP complete for prior several years but can’t find on web that aarp still has medicare complete in vermont anymore. Please advise! Many Thanks + Best Regards (info for 2022 needed ASAP!
Mary, thank you for the kind words! It seems that AARP does still offer their Medicare Complete plan in Vermont, however you will want to check in your specific zip code to see if the plan is still offered in your area.
Hi, I will be turning 70 in Feb 2022. I have been enrolled in Med.A since 2017 and have just applied for part B since i plan to retire in Feb 2022. I am in basically good health, even though I do have some chronic conditions eg. hypertension and type II diabetes as well as CKD -3 but all are under good control w/meds, and diet, and I only see my primary 2 x yr. Here’s the hard part, I have no idea what type of Medicare plan to apply for, I would like one that covers A,B, drugs, and other benefits for reasonable monthly amount, and out of pocket costs, is there such a plan?
Hi Attia – you can consider a Medicare Supplement plan or a Medicare Advantage plan. Medicare Supplement plans cover the 20% that Medicare leaves for the beneficiary. When your Part B becomes effective, your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period will begin and you can sign up for your Medigap plan of choice.
My wife will turn 65 in December and when do she needs to apply for coverage
Hi Roger. She can begin her application now since she is in her Initial Enrollment Period. If she’s collecting Social Security income, she will be automatically enrolled in Part A & Part B. If this is the case, her Part B effective date will be December 1st. She can begin enrolling in supplemental coverage since she knows when her Part B effective date is, they can both start at the same time.
I am on Obama care and on SSDI, when I turned 60 I will automatically be on SS cause I’m disabled now. In 11 months I qualify for Medicare, can I also stay on Obamacare?
Hi Mary! No, you cannot have both Medicare & Obamacare. We have an article that goes over Medicare & Obamacare that will answer all your questions.
I’m 63, on SSDI. Medicare ( A& B)starts in Oct. Relatively healthy. What is better for me, Advantage,medigap, D.
I don’t need prescription. Do I get penalized for that. This is still confusing to me.
Hi Virginia! If you’re under 65, I would go with a Medicare Advantage plan for now. The reason being is Medigap premiums are really high for those under 65. (there are a few states where this is not the case) When you turn 65, you’ll get a 6-month window to enroll in a Medigap plan. At that time, you won’t have to go through medical underwriting. If you don’t enroll during this window, you may not be able to ever enroll in a Medigap plan due to pre-existing conditions. You can get a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage. Then when you get Medigap, you will want to add on a Part D plan to cover prescriptions. If you don’t get any prescription drug coverage, you will be penalized. BUT, since you’re under 65, those penalties will reset when you turn 65.
I will turn 65 in 2022. I am a federal employee and expect to continue working for some time. My current UHC insurance (elevate plus) is good. So how do I add medicared part a without having more insurance than I can afford? This is SO confusing.
Hi Madeline! When you go to apply you would just need to select to delay Part B.
Hi Lisa! This is for sure really hard to answer over a comment so I will include links to our articles that provide more insight. I’m curious to know why someone told you not to enroll in Medigap since that’s the opposite of what you usually hear. Most people say do not to enroll in Medicare Advantage due to all the limitations they come with. When you enroll in an Advantage plan, you are leaving Original Medicare Part A & Part B. You still must pay your Part B premium, but Medicare pays the Advantage carrier to take on your risk. The private carrier is now in charge of your healthcare and can decide how much of each service they want to cover vs a Medigap plan which is standardized by the federal government. Some Advantage plans do include prescription drug coverage. Yes, some have a zero-dollar premium, but you still must pay the Part B premium. Keep in mind, the less you pay in monthly premiums, the more you will pay out of pocket as you use the services. Make sure to compare Medigap vs Medicare Advantage plans side by side so you fully understand what you’re enrolling in. You can check out our video section, we talk a lot about this topic. I hope this helps!
Spouse turns 65 in end of Aug. does SS automatically enroll him. What’s my next step..need best coverage for a cancer patient.Any suggestions.
Hi Holly! If your spouse is currently collecting Social Security benefits, they will be automatically enrolled into both Part A & Part B. They will receive their Medicare card a few months prior to their birthday. It’s extremely important that you enroll in a Medigap plan within 6 months of their Part B going into effect since they will be in their Medigap Open Enrollment window and pre-existing conditions, such as cancer, won’t impact them getting into a plan. I would go with Part A, Part B, then enroll in Medicare Supplement Plan G & Part D for prescriptions. Give us a call and we can help!
BUT they can probably charge you more or provide less options. I’m SO SCARED to change average programmes!!
I am a retired federal employee and have kept by Federal Employee Benefits Health plan,FEHP, When speaking with the When speaking to the person that makes the appointments she says they only accept medicare advantage programs. I told the person I had FEHB that was secondary to Medicare. Does this sound reasonable , do I need to speak to another person that might know more? Thanks for your help
Hi David! It’s possible that the facility you spoke to only accepts Medicare Advantage plans. These are offered by private carriers, not the federal government. More than likely you have Original Medicare as your primary and your FEHB as your secondary. You can use the Care Compare tool to find doctors near you that accept Medicare.
Hi Judy. Some Medicare Advantage plans are known as “Give Back Plans.” They reduce your Part B premium by giving some of it back to you. They’re able to do this since the carriers get paid by Medicare to take on your risk. The carrier also makes this money back by charging you a higher premium and collecting other out of pocket costs in the form of cost-sharing from each enrollee. You still have to enroll in both Part A and Part B to enroll in either a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medigap plan. Carriers that offer Medigap plans do not get paid by Medicare. They cannot use a portion of the premium you pay for Part B and apply it to your Medigap premium. Medigap plans work with your Part B by filling in the gaps in coverage, such as the 20% coinsurance for all outpatient services. Medicare Advantage plans do not always cover the 20% coinsurance, each carrier determines how much they will pay for each service. They could decide to charge you the 20% coinsunrace, plus a high co-pay. When if you have a Medigap plan, you would not have to pay the 20% coinsurance and there are never any copays.
I have Aetna Elite Advantra PPO Medicare Advantage. I see things are changing in my policy. In the past I have viewed a Medicare Advantage comparison in SHIIP’s website for Iowa. This year the website has changed and I have not been able to find that comparison. Can you help me with the address of this information for 2021.
Hi Cathy! Yes, we can help you with that. We just need some information from you to see what Medicare Advantage plans are available in your zip code. If you fill out our compare rates form, we’ll contact you with the comparison you’re looking for Aetna and all other carriers as well.
If your over 65 and on Medicare but did not take plan d and now looking for an advantage plan I know you will have to pay a penalty because you did not take a prescription plan do you also have to pay for plan d plus the penalty
Hi Jeanne! So, there is a penalty for not signing up for Part D when you’re first eligible. However, it does not impact your enrollment or premiums if you choose to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. This penalty only impacts you when you go to enroll in a stand-alone Part D plan. Yes, you’ll have to pay for Part D + the penalty, which is added to your monthly premium for the rest of your life. However, if you had creditable coverage, then the penalty won’t apply to you.
Medicare advantage plans all require prior authorization. Traditional Medicare doesn’t. Medicare advantage plsns limit your doctor choice, Medicare doesn’t. Medicare advantage plans are middle men trying to make profits from taxpayers by killing patients as fast as possible.
Please do NOT be fooled by the advertisement from Medicare advantage plan. All the private Medicare advantage plans will require prior authorization for expensive but necessary treatments. Many time patients are dead by the time they get prior authorization. Medicare advantage plans also limit your choice of doctors. Overall, Medicare advantage plans are thieves stealing tax dollars through killing patients by delaying and denying treatments. Preserve the traditional Medicare!
I don’t know. I’ve REALLY LIKED my advantage plan through Humana and they seem to get my authorizations pretty quickly.
which is better for people with epilepsy…medicare advantage or medicare supplement?
Hi John! If you want less out of pocket costs, then Medicare Supplements are better. They cover most, if not all, out of pocket costs depending on the letter plan you choose. With Medicare Advantage, you’ll always have out of pocket costs. What you would pay out of pocket with a Medicare Supplement will be less than the Medicare Advantage maximum out of pocket costs.
Is there more paperwork involved with Medicare Advantage than other supplemental plans?
Hi Jerre! That depends on the carrier you go with. Each carrier has their own application process.
Are Aetna Medicare Advantage Plans available in all 50 states? Aetna Medicare Essential PPO Plan for 2020 has in-network Aetna Providers and the associated costs, also Out-Of-Network (OON) providers will be covered and my share of the cost is 40%. If I live in Georgia and require medical treatment in another state, then could I go to an in-network Aetna Provider in that state and still have the in-network Aetna Provider associated costs for that service?
Hi Donald! Unfortunately, Medicare Advantage plans are not available in all states. Your plan may or may not cover care outside of its service area. I would contact your plan to see what rules and costs apply when you travel within the U.S.
Do these plans accept members with pre-existing conditions?
Hi Terri! Yes, Medicare Advantage plans accept pre-existing conditions. There are resctrictions regarding individuals with ESRD.
We are snowbirds with primary residence in Fl. We have Humana Advantage Florida Ppo.
Even though this allows us to go anywhere, they are saying we will owe 50% of the cost of service also stated in their plan booklet. Is that right? How can I be a Medicare member in which 80% is always paid. Do they mean we will owe 50% of the remaining 20%
Hi Jaci… unfortunately that 80% is ONLY when you have Part B. Medicare Advantage carriers get to choose how much of each service they are going to pay. It’s not standardized by the federal government. When you enrolled in Advantage, you disenrolled from Part A & Part B technically. The premium you pay for Part B goes to the Advantage carrier, not Medicare.
I’m the widow of a veteran with Tricare for Life coverage. How does this work, both for doctors and prescriptions, with a Medicare Advantage plan?
Hi Kathy! We have a great article that explains how TRICARE for Life works with Medicare plans including Medigap, Medicare Advantage, and Part D..
I’d be interested in learning how the VA would figure into all this.
Hi Jerry! We have a great article that discusses veterans benefits and how it works with Medicare. I hope that helps!