Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare, offered by private insurers. It bundles Parts A, B, and usually D — plus extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing not covered by Original Medicare.
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How Medicare Advantage Works
Instead of using Original Medicare directly, you enroll in a private plan approved by Medicare.
1.
You Keep Medicare
You must remain enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B and continue paying your Part B premium.
2.
Private Insurer Runs the Plan
A private insurer contracts with Medicare to provide your Part A and B benefits — plus extras — within a defined network.
3.
One Monthly Bill
Many Advantage plans have $0 plan premium. You pay your Part B premium plus any copays/coinsurance when you get care.
Types of Medicare Advantage Plans
Plans vary by structure. Understanding the type helps you choose the right fit.
You must use in-network providers (except emergencies) and typically need a primary care doctor who coordinates referrals to specialists. Usually lowest premiums.
Best for: Budget-conscious beneficiaries who want predictable costs and don't mind network restrictions.
More flexibility — you can see out-of-network providers at a higher cost. No referrals required for specialists. Usually higher premiums than HMO.
Best for: People who want flexibility to see specialists directly or occasionally use out-of-network providers.
Designed for people with specific diseases, conditions, or income levels. Coordinates care around your unique needs (e.g., diabetes SNP, dual-eligible SNP).
Best for: People with chronic conditions, dual Medicare/Medicaid eligibility, or living in an institution.
The plan decides how much it pays providers. Providers can choose whether to accept the plan's terms on a case-by-case basis. Less common in NJ.
Best for: Beneficiaries in rural areas with limited HMO/PPO options.
Extra Benefits Not in Original Medicare
One of the biggest reasons people choose Advantage is the extra benefits. Availability varies by plan and county.
Dental
Routine cleanings, x-rays, fillings — some plans include dentures or implants
Vision
Eye exams and an annual allowance for glasses or contacts
Hearing
Annual hearing exams and a hearing aid allowance
Fitness
Gym membership or fitness program (e.g., SilverSneakers)
Over-the-Counter
Quarterly allowance for OTC items like vitamins, pain relievers, bandages
Transportation
Rides to medical appointments for non-emergency care
Meal Delivery
Meals at home after a hospitalization (select plans)
Telehealth
24/7 nurse hotlines and virtual doctor visits
Pros & Cons
Medicare Advantage isn't right for everyone. Here's an honest look at both sides.
Advantages
- Often $0 or very low monthly premium (you still pay Part B)
- Annual out-of-pocket maximum protects you from catastrophic costs
- Usually includes Part D drug coverage
- Extra benefits: dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs, transportation
- All-in-one plan simplicity — one card, one network
Drawbacks
- Network restrictions — must use plan doctors (HMO) or pay more (PPO)
- Prior authorization required for many tests and procedures
- Plans can change benefits, network, and costs every January
- Limited travel coverage (emergency only outside service area)
- May not be accepted by all specialists, especially top academic centers
Explore Other Medicare Parts
Compare Medicare Advantage Plans in NJ
A licensed NJ Medicare advisor will compare every Advantage plan available in your county — always free, no obligation.