Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Alternatively, many of my clients prefer Medicare Advantage plans. These are all-in-one alternatives to Original Medicare, offered by private companies approved by Medicare. These plans often look more like the group health insurance you might have had through an employer. They usually include Part A, Part B, and often Part D (prescription drug coverage) wrapped into a single plan.
The appeal of Medicare Advantage often lies in the extras. Many of these plans include benefits that Original Medicare does not cover, such as routine dental, vision, and hearing services, and sometimes even gym memberships or over-the-counter allowances. When we look at a Medicare quote for an Advantage plan, the premiums are often very low—sometimes even $0 per month. However, it is vital to understand the trade-offs. These plans usually utilize provider networks (HMOs or PPOs), meaning you need to ensure your doctors are “in-network” to avoid higher costs.
My job as your Medicare agency is to carefully review your list of doctors and medications before you enroll. We will check the provider directories together to ensure you don’t lose access to your preferred cardiologist or primary care physician. We will also review the plan’s “Maximum Out-of-Pocket” limit to ensure you are protected financially if you have a bad health year.
The Importance of Annual Reviews
Medicare is not a “set it and forget it” decision. Plans change every single year. A formulary (drug list) that covered your blood pressure medication this year might drop it into a more expensive tier next year. Your favorite doctor might leave a network. This is why having a relationship with a local Medicare agent is so critical.
During the Annual Enrollment Period, I reach out to my clients to review any changes to their current plans. If your plan is increasing its premium or cutting benefits, we can shop the market again. You never have to worry about missing a deadline or being stuck in a plan that no longer serves you. I handle the paperwork, the comparison shopping, and the enrollment process, so you can enjoy your retirement without the administrative headache.
Why Choose Gordon Glass?
Ultimately, Medicare is personal. It affects your physical health and your financial wealth. You deserve to work with someone who sees you as a person, not a policy number. Whether you are leaning toward the comprehensive coverage of Medicare Supplements or the extra perks of Medicare Advantage, I am here to provide an honest, transparent comparison.
I invite you to reach out for a free consultation. We can sit down, look at the numbers, and ensure that when you hand your card to a receptionist at the doctor’s office, you feel completely confident in your coverage. Let me take the mystery out of Medicare so you can focus on living your life to the fullest.