Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage plans (MAPD), also known as Medicare Part C, combine Hospitalization, Medical (doctors, labs, etc.,) and Prescription Drug coverage into one plan. There are also plans that do not include the Prescription Drug coverage (MA Only) for those who have other creditable drug coverage already in place, like through the Veteran's Administration (VA). 

An MAPD works most similarly to the employer coverage you may be accustomed to by allowing you to carry one card for all of your doctor, hospital, and prescription drug visits.  These plans will often times offer additional benefits such as some coverage toward dental cleanings and routine eye exams and they may even offer some Over-The-Counter benefits that include items like band-aids, toothpaste, pain relievers, etc. 

While you may choose a plan that has a $0 monthly premium, you will have copays that are due and payable every time you use your plan. These copays can range anywhere from $5 to $375 or more, each time you use it. There is always a maximum out of pocket dollar amount, pre-set, by each plan.