Medicare Advantage plans, or Medicare Part C, provide a complete way to get your Medicare benefits. These plans are offered by private insurance companies that Medicare approves. They combine Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) into one easy plan. They often include prescription drug coverage (Part D) and extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing.
At O’Neal Insurance Group, we help clients in the U.S. find and enroll in a Medicare health plan. We make sure it fits their healthcare needs, budget, and lifestyle.
What Is Medicare Advantage Part C?
Medicare Advantage (MA) plans offer a different option than Original Medicare. They combine Part A and Part B benefits into one plan. These are offered by private companies that contract with Medicare and must follow federal guidelines.
In 2025, many plans are expected to have lower premiums. The average will be $17 per month. Almost 60% of enrollees may have access to plans with $0 premiums. MA plans also come with annual out-of-pocket maximums, offering protection Original Medicare doesn’t provide.
Unlike Original Medicare, most MA plans include Part D prescription drug coverage and additional benefits like:
- Routine dental and vision care
- Hearing services
- Wellness and fitness programs
O’Neal Insurance brokers help you look at over 40 options. They consider your location, budget, and medical needs.
Explore different Medicare Supplement options if you’re considering alternatives to Medicare Advantage.
HMO vs PPO: Understanding Your Plan Options
Medicare Advantage plans have different types. The two most popular are HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) and PPO (Preferred Provider Organization.
Feature
Network Requirements
Primary Care Physician Required
Specialist Referrals Needed
Monthly Premiums
Flexibility
Drug Coverage Included
HMO Plans
Must use in-network providers
Yes
Yes
Lower
Limited
Typically yes
PPO Plans
In- and out-of-network options
No
No
Higher
Greater
Typically yes
HMO plans offer lower pocket costs but less flexibility, while PPO plans allow more provider choice at a higher cost. The right plan for you depends on your priorities—cost savings or freedom of choice.
Enrollment & Eligibility
To enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you must:
- Be enrolled in both Part A and Part B
- Live in the plan’s service area
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
You can enroll during these key periods:
- Initial Enrollment Period: Around your 65th birthday
- Annual Open Enrollment: October 15 – December 7
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: January 1 – March 31
- Special Enrollment Periods: Triggered by events like a move or loss of coverage
There are Special Needs Plans (SNPs) for people with certain conditions or those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. There are also Medical Savings Account (MSA) plans for those who want high-deductible plans with savings options.
Carriers and States We Serve
O’Neal Insurance Group represents top Medicare Advantage carriers, including:
- UnitedHealthcare
- Humana
- Aetna (CVS Health)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Kaiser Permanente
- Devoted Health, Wellcare, and more
We offer plans in states such as Nevada, Illinois, Mississippi, Florida, Arizona, and Texas. We also serve clients in cities like Las Vegas, Chicago, Hattiesburg, Jackson, and Ocean Springs.
FAQs About Medicare Advantage
Q1. What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare?
Medicare Advantage combines Part A and B into one, often with Part D and extra benefits. Original Medicare does not include drug coverage or out-of-pocket maximums.
Q2. Can I have a Medicare Advantage plan and a Medigap policy?
No. Medigap policies only work with Original Medicare, not with Medicare Advantage.
Q3. Are Medicare Advantage plans free?
Some have $0 monthly premiums, but you must still pay your Part B premium and other potential out-of-pocket costs.
Q4. Do these plans cover prescription drugs?
Yes. Most MA plans include Part D drug coverage. If yours doesn’t, you cannot enroll in a separate Part D plan.
Q5. How do I know which one is right for me?
A licensed Medicare insurance agent can help you compare benefits, drug lists, provider networks, and costs. They will consider your needs.
Ready to Get Started?
Choosing the right Medicare Advantage Part C plan means knowing your options. You should also see how they fit your health goals. Let the experts at O’Neal Insurance Group help you make a smart, informed decision.
