Medicare Advantage Part C plans are offered through private health insurance companies and benefits may vary between different plans. It replaces Original Medicare (Parts A and B).

Originally called Part C, these Medicare private insurance plans usually have an HMO or PPO network of doctors. Medicare Advantage plans versus Original Medicare depends on the level of care you need now and in the future. MA Plans are available to those who are enrolled in Part A and B of Medicare, live in the MA plan’s service area, and do not have End-Stage Renal Disease. 

On traditional Medicare, you will have deductibles and pay 20% coinsurance for Part B services with no limit on out-of-pocket expenses. But, on a Medicare Advantage plan, you will pay copayments and/or coinsurance when you receive healthcare services. Each plan's benefits and cost-sharing will vary.

Medicare Advantage plans have a yearly maximum out-of-pocket limit, which is a limit on how much cost share you could be responsible for during that plan year, excluding drug coverage. When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage policy, you get your benefits from the Advantage plan, not Medicare. You agree to use the plan’s network of providers except in emergencies. You’ll pay copays for your health care treatment as needed. These plans are an alternative to Original Medicare and, in most cases, will have prescription drug coverage built in.