Your Essential Guide to Original Medicare and Part C, Advantage Plans in Mississippi: Local Plans & Benefits
Medicare Advantage Mississippi plans serve 640,993 residents throughout the state . Mississippi residents with Medicare can access Medicare Advantage plans that include $0 premium options .
The average monthly premium shows a slight drop from $20.34 in 2024 to $21.32 in 2025 .
The right time to sign up for Medicare plays a vital role in your healthcare coverage.
Recent data shows that 43% of Mississippi Medicare beneficiaries chose Medicare Advantage plans by September 2024 .
Mississippi offers 72 Medicare Advantage plans for 2025, down from 88 plans last year, which makes choosing the right benefits worth careful thought .
This piece guides you through the essentials of Medicare Advantage plans in Mississippi.
You’ll learn about eligibility rules, how to apply, ways to compare the best plans, and understand the costs involved.
The information helps you pick Medicare options confidently, whether you’re approaching 65 or qualifying through disability.
Who Qualifies for Medicare Advantage in Mississippi
Getting Medicare Advantage in Mississippi means you need to meet certain federal requirements. Before you sign up for these private insurance alternatives to Original Medicare, let’s look at who can qualify and how these programs work.
Age and disability-based eligibility
You can qualify for Medicare Advantage plans in Mississippi in two main ways.
You’re eligible if you’re 65 or older and entitled to Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits [1].
If you’re under 65, you can qualify through disability after receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for 24 straight months [2].
Some conditions don’t require the 24-month waiting period. People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) qualify for Medicare right after getting disability benefits [3].
Those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) usually qualify after three months of regular dialysis treatments [2].
Here’s what you need to join any Medicare Advantage plan in Mississippi:
- You must have both Medicare Part A and Part B
- Your home must be in the plan’s service area
- You must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident [1]
Medicare of Mississippi vs. Medicaid
Medicare runs at the federal level, while Medicaid looks at your financial situation. Medicaid helps low-income residents across Mississippi [4].
The main difference is simple – Medicare looks at your age or disability status, but Medicaid checks your income level [4].
Medicare benefits stay the same across the country, but Medicaid benefits can change by state because both federal and state governments run it together.
Mississippi Medicaid eligibility for dual coverage
Some Mississippi residents can get both Medicare and Medicaid – we call them “dual eligibles” [5].
Nationwide, about 12 million people have dual eligibility, making up over 15% of everyone on Medicaid [6].
If you’re eligible for both programs in Mississippi, Medicaid can help pay your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and other costs through Medicare Savings Programs [7].
The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program helps with Part A and B premiums, deductibles, and copayments if your income is up to 100% of the federal poverty level [7].
Mississippi also has Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (DSNPs).
These special Medicare Advantage plans help people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. They coordinate your care better and offer extra benefits beyond regular Medicare coverage [8].
How and When to Apply for Medicare Advantage
Image Source: MedicareFAQ
Getting Medicare Advantage in Mississippi means you need to know the right times and steps to enroll. You can avoid penalties and coverage gaps by understanding the enrollment process.
When to apply for Medicare if still working
Many people in Mississippi work beyond age 65. Your employer coverage (or your spouse’s) might let you delay Medicare enrollment without penalties [9].
You should assess if your current plan gives you better value than Medicare options.
Look at your employer coverage and compare it with Medicare plans before you decide.
Talk to HR about how your benefits work with Medicare. You’ll need to figure out if keeping your employer plan makes financial sense.
Keep in mind that you must stop HSA contributions at least 6 months before you get Medicare to avoid tax penalties [9].
Initial, general, and special enrollment periods
Your Initial Enrollment Period lasts 7 months.
It starts 3 months before your 65th birth month, includes your birth month, and goes 3 months after [10]. This is your best chance to enroll without penalties.
Key periods you should know:
- Annual Election Period (October 15-December 7): Join, switch, or drop Medicare Advantage plans [11]
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (January 1-March 31): Switch plans or return to Original Medicare [11]
- General Enrollment Period (January 1-March 31): Enroll if you missed your Initial Enrollment Period [12]
- Special Enrollment Periods: Available for qualifying events like moving or losing coverage [13]
Mississippi residents can switch to 5-star rated plans once between December 8 and November 30 [14].
Step-by-step Medicare application process
Here’s how to apply for Medicare Advantage in Mississippi:
- Enroll in Original Medicare (Parts A & B) through Social Security—online, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or at your local office [15]
- Gather necessary documentation: Birth certificate, proof of citizenship, Social Security card, and health insurance information [12]
- Select a Medicare Advantage plan that serves your area (like Gulfport, Jackson, or Biloxi)
- Complete the enrollment form with your Medicare number, phone number, and permanent address [16]
You’ll get a welcome package with your Medicare card about two weeks after you submit your application [17].
Choosing the Best Medicare Medigap Plan in Mississippi
Image Source: ClearMatch Medicare
You need to think over your specific healthcare needs to find the right Medicare Medigap/MedSup plan. Mississippi residents can choose from multiple options throughout the state.
How to evaluate plan networks and coverage
The first step is to check if your preferred doctors and hospitals are part of the plan’s network.
Your Medicare Advantage plan will need you to stay within a specific provider network, except for emergencies [18].
You should also get into what tier your prescription medications belong to and whether the plan gives you extra benefits like dental, vision, or fitness memberships [7].
Best Medicare Advantage plans in Mississippi
Several companies provide highly-rated Medicare Advantage plans in Mississippi. Aetna Medicare’s plans have earned 4.5 stars out of 5 from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) [1].
Cigna, Healthy Mississippi, Humana, Primewell Health Services, and UnitedHealthcare also offer 4-star rated plans [7].
Meet with me James O’Neal your local near me, Medicare health plan specialist to review your insurance needs. We can assess your plans, look at options and rates, or answer any questions.
O’Neal Insurance Group
2953 Bienville Blvd #303
Ocean Springs, MS 39564
Phone # (228) 641-2323 Local number
and
6068 Us Hwy W. Ste. 1 #228
Hattiesburg, MS 39402
Phone # (601) 773-3933 Local number
Email:
Using ZIP code to find local agent broker options
Your location affects your plan options by a lot. Medicare plans differ by ZIP code throughout Mississippi, from Hattiesburg, Petal, Meridian, Jackson, Pascagoula, Moss Point, Gulfport to Biloxi and beyond. Medicare.gov‘s plan finder tool shows you the exact plans in your area once you enter your ZIP code [1][19].
Recent data reveals varying plan numbers by county – Hinds County has 170 plan contracts, Harrison County has 177, and Tishomingo County has 152 [1].
Aetna, Cigna, Devoted and Humana Medicare Advantage Mississippi
Aetna Cigna, Devoted and Humana provide complete Medicare Advantage options in Mississippi.
Aetna offers 9 different Medicare Advantage plans, with both HMO and PPO choices [20].
Most plans come with $0 premiums and extra benefits like dental coverage [21].
Humana provides 15 Medicare Advantage plans in Mississippi, including special plans for people with chronic conditions [22].
All carriers’ costs and benefits change based on where you live, so you should compare options using your exact ZIP code.
Managing Costs and Getting Free Local Help
Many Mississippi residents struggle to manage their Medicare costs. The good news is that financial help is available through several programs that qualified residents can use.
Medicare Savings Programs in Mississippi
Medicare Savings Programs provide cost coverage support to beneficiaries with low income. Mississippi residents can choose from three main programs:
The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program covers Part A and B premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance. Singles can qualify with monthly income up to $1325, while couples need income up to $1783 [23].
The Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) program helps with Part B premiums. Singles qualify with monthly income up to $1585, and couples need income up to $2135 [23].
The Qualifying Individual (QI) program pays Part B premiums too. Singles can earn up to $1781 monthly, and couples up to $2400 [23]. Mississippi has made these programs available to more residents by removing resource tests [2].
Extra Help for prescription drug costs
The Extra Help program, also known as Low-Income Subsidy, helps reduce prescription drug costs.
Qualification in 2025 requires annual income up to $23,475 and resources up to $17,600 [3].
Beneficiaries who get Extra Help pay no more than $4.90 for generic drugs and $12.15 for brand-name medications [3].
Medicare will cap out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2000 yearly starting 2025 [24].
Meet with me James O’Neal your local near me, Medicare health plan specialist to review your insurance needs. He will assess your plans, look at options and rates, or answer any questions.
Using Medigap for additional coverage
Medigap policies help pay Original Medicare’s out-of-pocket costs. Medicare enrollees in Mississippi who have Medigap coverage make up 26% [25].
Plan premiums range from $30 monthly for high-deductible Plan G to about $212 on average [26].
Your best time to sign up comes during the six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period. Insurance companies cannot deny you coverage based on health conditions during this time [26].
Where to get free help: SHIP, Medicare.gov, local agents
Mississippi’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling.
SHIP counselors help you compare plans, organize paperwork, and check if you qualify for assistance programs [27]. You can reach SHIP at 1-844-822-4622 [28].
The Mississippi Insurance Department (601-359-3569 or 800-562-2957) and Medicare.gov are great resources [29].
The Mississippi Access to Care Network runs five centers across the state. These centers offer customized assistance whatever your financial situation [30].
Conclusion
Finding Your Ideal Medicare Plan in Mississippi
Medicare Advantage plans across Mississippi give residents comprehensive healthcare choices that match their needs.
This includes everyone from the Gulf Coast areas of Biloxi and Gulfport to northern cities like Tupelo and Oxford.
You now know the basic eligibility rules, enrollment windows, and costs that come with these valuable plans.
The timing of your choice matters a lot.
Your original enrollment window gives you the best chance to get coverage without extra costs.
Life changes might qualify you for Special Enrollment Periods, which lets you adjust your coverage when needed.
You might qualify for financial help.
Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help can substantially lower your costs.
Starting in 2025, the new $2,000 yearly cap on prescription drugs will help many Mississippi residents save money.
Plan options are different in each county.
Harrison County residents can pick from 177 plans while Tishomingo County has 152 choices.
Make sure to enter your ZIP code when looking for plans to see what’s available in your area.
Getting started with Medicare Advantage plans might feel overwhelming.
The good news is you have plenty of free help available.
SHIP counselors, Medicare.gov, and local insurance experts like me are here to help.
We can assess your healthcare needs, look at available plans, and find coverage that works best for you at the right price.
The best Medicare Advantage plan gives you the right mix of cost, coverage, and convenience.
Take time to look at your options carefully.
You’ll find healthcare coverage that supports you well into the future.
Mississippi’s Medicare Advantage options can meet your healthcare needs, from simple coverage to plans with dental, vision, and fitness benefits.
Mississippi Original Medicare Medicare health insurance agent Counties and Cities
Benton, De Soto, Hancock, Harrison, Hinds, Madison, Marshall, Panola, Rankin, Tate, Tippah, Tunica, Forest, Mobile Alabama, Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, Hattiesburg, Biloxi, Olive Branch, Tupelo, Meridian, Pearl, Madison, Greenville, Oxford, Clinton, Horn Lake, Brandon, Starkville, Ridgeland, Columbus, Pascagoula, Vicksburg, Gautier, Ocean Springs, Hernando, Long Beach, Laurel, Corinth, Natchez, Clarksdale, Greenwood, D’Iberville, Byram, Grenada, McComb, Moss Point, Picayune, Brookhaven, Petal, Canton, Flowood, Bay St. Louis, Cleveland, West Point, Yazoo City, Diamondhead, Booneville, Indianola, Gulf Hills, Senatobia, St. Martin, New Albany, Richland, Batesville, Waveland, Gulf Park Estates, Philadelphia, Kosciusko, Holly Springs, Latimer, Amory, Pass Christian, West Hattiesburg, Louisville, Pontotoc, Columbia, Ripley, Forest, Vancleave, Saltillo, Aberdeen, Carthage, Florence, Crystal Springs, Ellisville, Fulton, Waynesboro, University, Pearl River, Wiggins, Mississippi State, Winona, Magee, Leakesville, Houston, Leland, Morton, Hazlehurst, Beechwood, Water Valley, Gluckstadt, Escatawpa, Newton, Iuka, Baldwyn, Lucedale, New Hope, Bridgetown, Poplarville.
Mississippi Gulf Coast Brokers offers Free Help
Bay St. Louis, Pass Christian, Long Beach, Gulfport, Biloxi, D’Iberville, Ocean Springs,
Diamondhead, Vancleave, Gautier, Pascagoula, Moss Point, Hancock County, Harrison County, East Jackson County.
FAQs
Q1. What are the main drawbacks of Medicare Advantage plans? Medicare Advantage plans may have limitations such as restricted provider networks, more complex coverage approval processes, and potential incompatibility with other forms of retiree coverage. It’s important to carefully consider these factors when choosing between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare.
Q2. How can I find the best Medicare Advantage plan in Mississippi? To find the best Medicare Advantage plan in Mississippi, compare options from top-rated providers like Aetna, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare. Consider factors such as plan networks, coverage, costs, and additional benefits. Use your ZIP code to find plans available in your area and consult with a Medicare specialist for personalized guidance.
Q3. When should I apply for Medicare Advantage in Mississippi? The best time to apply is during your Initial Enrollment Period, which starts 3 months before your 65th birthday month and ends 3 months after. You can also enroll or make changes during the Annual Election Period (October 15-December 7) or during Special Enrollment Periods if you qualify due to certain life events.
Q4. Are there programs to help with Medicare costs in Mississippi? Yes, Mississippi offers several assistance programs. Medicare Savings Programs help cover premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance for eligible individuals. The Extra Help program assists with prescription drug costs. Additionally, Medigap policies can help cover out-of-pocket expenses for those with Original Medicare.
Q5. Where can I get free help understanding Medicare options in Mississippi? Free assistance is available through Mississippi’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at 1-844-822-4622. You can also get help from the Mississippi Insurance Department, Medicare.gov, and local Medicare agents. These resources can provide unbiased information and help you compare plans.
References
[1] – https://www.forbes.com/advisor/health-insurance/medicare/medicare-advantage-in-mississippi/
[2] – https://www.medicareresources.org/states/mississippi-guide-content/
[3] – https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/drug-costs
[4] – https://www.healthline.com/health/medicare/medicare-vs-medicaid
[5] – https://www.cms.gov/outreach-and-education/medicare-learning-network-mln/mlnproducts/downloads/medicare_beneficiaries_dual_eligibles_at_a_glance.pdf
[6] – https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/eligibility/seniors-medicare-and-medicaid-enrollees
[7] – https://www.nerdwallet.com/insurance/medicare/mississippi-medicare-advantage-plans
[8] – https://medicaid.ms.gov/programs/dual-special-needs-plans-dsnps/
[9] – https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/medicare-basics/working-past-65
[10] – https://www.healthline.com/health/medicare/medicare-plans-mississippi
[11] – https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/get-more-coverage/joining-a-plan
[12] – https://www.aetna.com/medicare/understanding-medicare/medicare-enrollment-periods-what-to-know.html
[13] – https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/get-more-coverage/joining-a-plan/special-enrollment-periods
[14] – https://www.clarionledger.com/story/sponsor-story/humana/2024/01/22/mississippians-can-switch-medicare-plans-when-opting-for-five-stars/72269828007/
[15] – https://www.gohealth.com/medicare/state-coverage/mississippi-medicare/
[16] – https://healthy-ms.com/how-to-enroll/
[17] – https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/sign-up/how-do-i-sign-up-for-medicare
[18] – https://www.medicare.org/medicare-advantage-plans/mississippi/
[19] – https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare/
[20] – https://retiree.alight.com/find-plans/Aetna-medicare-advantage-plans-in-Mississippi
[21] – https://enroll.aetnamedicare.com/s/medicare-advantage/a7m3g000000YABAAA4/lee-ms
[22] – https://retiree.alight.com/find-plans/Humana-medicare-advantage-plans-in-Mississippi
[23] – https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/medicare-savings-programs
[24] – https://www.medicare.gov/
[25] – https://askchapter.org/magazine/senior-health-wellness/medicare-resources/medicare-supplement-plans-in-mississippi-medigap
[26] – https://www.healthline.com/health/medicare/medicare-supplement-plans-in-mississippi
[27] – https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/post/ship-is-here-to-help-answer-your-medicare-questions/
[28] – https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/post/navigating-medicare-made-easy-with-ship/
[29] – https://apps.mid.ms.gov/healthcare/medicare.aspx
[30] – https://www.payingforseniorcare.com/medicare/mississippi
