Medicare Advantage

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is another way to get your Medicare coverage.

These plans are offered by Medicare-approved private insurance companies and must follow the same rules as Medicare. With a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll still get all the coverage that Original Medicare provides, and many plans offer extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, or even wellness programs.


To sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll need to already be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B.

Types of Medicare Advantage Plans

There are numerous Medicare Advantage plans designed for different needs and requirements. Below are some of the most common Medicare Advantage Plans that are used widely across the United States:

  • HMO (Health Maintenance Organization)

    With an HMO plan, you generally need to use doctors, hospitals, and other providers that are in the plan’s network. You’ll usually need a referral to see a specialist. HMO plans often have lower costs if you stay in-network.

  • PPO (Preferred Provider Organization)

    PPO plans give you more flexibility. You can see doctors and specialists in or out of network, but it usually costs less if you stay in-network. No referral is typically needed to see a specialist.

  • PFFS (Private Fee-for-Service)

    With a PFFS plan, the insurance company decides how much it will pay providers and how much you’ll pay when you get care. You can usually see any provider that agrees to the plan’s terms and conditions.

  • SNP (Special Needs Plan)

    SNPs are designed for people with specific needs, like those with certain chronic conditions, those living in nursing homes, or those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. These plans tailor their benefits, networks, and drug lists to best meet the needs of the group they serve.

  • MSA (Medical Savings Account)

    MSA plans combine a high-deductible health plan with a special savings account. Medicare deposits money into the account, and you can use it to pay for healthcare services before your deductible is met.

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We are not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.