Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits through a plan offered by Medicare-approved private insurance companies. These plans combine hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) coverage into one comprehensive plan — and most also include prescription drug coverage (Part D).

In addition to covering all services provided by Original Medicare, many Medicare Advantage plans offer enhanced benefits such as:

• Vision, Dental, and Hearing coverage
• Wellness and preventive care programs
• Remote care and telehealth services

With Medicare Advantage, you maintain your Medicare benefits while gaining access to coordinated care, predictable costs, and valuable extra services designed to support your overall health and well-being.

“Can I change my plan anytime?”

Changes to your Medicare coverage can only be made during certain times of the year, unless you qualify for a special exception.

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP):
Each year, from October 15 through December 7, you may review your coverage and make changes. During this period, you can switch, enroll in, or disenroll from a Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug plan. Any changes made during AEP will take effect on January 1 of the following year.

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP):
From January 1 through March 31, individuals already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan may switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare (with or without prescription drug coverage).

Special Enrollment Periods (SEP):
Certain life events—such as moving to a new service area, losing other insurance coverage, or becoming eligible for Medicaid—may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to make changes outside of the standard enrollment windows.