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The Advantages of Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans offer easy-to-use coverage with extra health and wellness benefits you don’t get from Original Medicare.
The Advantages of Medicare Advantage
All the coverage of Original Medicare – and more
Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) are provided by companies with a Medicare contract, such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. They’re usually HMO and PPO managed care plans, like the coverage you may have through your workplace. So you’re probably already familiar with the way a Medicare Advantage plan works.
When you join a Medicare Advantage plan, you are still in Medicare. But you won’t use your Medicare card to obtain services; you’ll use the member ID card from the plan you choose. Your Medicare Advantage plan will provide all of your Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) coverage. It also covers other medically necessary services, such as routine screenings and immunizations.
PLUS, most Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans include your Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. Additional benefits – such as dental, vision and hearing – may also be covered. And Medicare Advantage plans have an out-of-pocket maximum to help protect you from unlimited spending on copays, coinsurance and other medical expenses.
Because Medicare Advantage plans are provided through a contract with Medicare, premiums are generally lower than other alternatives. You’ll probably pay less than the costs of a Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan or another private health plan.
SPEAKER 1: You know, my brother Jeff has what I've heard is kind of an all-in-one plan. His Medicare Advantage plan covers the same things as original Medicare but also his vision, dental, and hearing. And his plan also covers prescription drugs. He told me to check for that.
The man loves his free time, so the all-in-one coverage works well for him. I mean, we've worked for so long to retire, who wants to spend more time on hold or doing paperwork?
SPEAKER 2: All-in-one plan-- isn't that expensive?
SPEAKER 1: Well, Jeff doesn't actually have to pay a monthly premium for his plan. And a lot of Part C plans have $0 premiums. Medicare Advantage plans are sold by private health insurers like Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. So it's perfect if you want to stay with the insurance company you had before retirement. You're still in Medicare, but instead of using your Medicare card to get services, you use your member ID card. And they have Medicare Advantage options to fit any life and budget.
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Medicare Advantage for our valued members
With Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, you have several Medicare Advantage HMO and PPO plan options. So you can expect the same great service you’ve experienced on your workplace plan, even after you’re retired and on Medicare.
We have the perfect tool to help you decide if Medicare Advantage is the right plan for you.
IMPORTANT:
If you are eligible for a Retiree Group Medicare plan, some of this
information may not apply to you. Please ask your employer or benefit administrator about
your Medicare options, eligibility and enrollment information.
Get Your Medicare Timeline
Answer a few simple questions and we’ll provide you with a personalized timeline. You’ll also receive reminders with important information and actions you can take to stay on track as you near your Medicare eligibility.
Create My Timeline →Compare, Choose and Enroll
Get started with your member login. Verify your information and see personalized recommendations based on lowest cost and most comprehensive coverage. Compare your options, contact an agent and enroll, all in one easy-to-use tool.
Help MeChoose
Questions? Let us help.
As our valued member, you have access to exclusive resources and assistance. We’re here to help you make a smooth transition to Medicare. Call us to learn more.
1-800-000-0000 (TTY 711)We’re open between 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., local time, 7 days a week. If you’re calling from April 1 through September 30, alternate technologies (for example, voicemail) will be used on the weekends and holidays.