A Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), sometimes called “Part C” or an “MA Plan” are offered by Medicare-approved private insurance companies that must follow the rules set by Medicare. If you join a Medicare Advantage Plan, you’ll still have Medicare but you’ll get your Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) coverage from the Medicare Advantage Plan, not Original Medicare. You’ll generally get your services from a plan’s network of providers.
Advantages:
- Convenience of single plan
- Some include prescription drug coverage for no additional premium
- Some offer additional benefits not covered by Medicare (e.g., preventive care, vision, hearing aids, or transportation)
- If eligible for Medicare, you cannot be denied coverage
- If there is a premium, it is not affected by your age or health status
Disadvantages:
- In most plans, you receive your coverage in a service area – unless it’s an emergency
- Your access to doctors and hospitals may be limited to a specified network of local providers
- Plan premiums and terms can change from year to year
There are limited time periods for enrollment or plan changes

I have been providing the San Diego community with insurance services for more than 20 years. The goal of my agency is to meet the needs of the aging population in our San Diego communities by providing zero cost, zero pressure Medicare educational courses in a completely non-biased format. This has been a greatly needed service for many years and we are confident that the information we bring forward in each of our courses will empower people to make wise long-term choices in healthcare that will ultimately enrich their lives. I live in the Rancho Penasquitos community with my family for the past 26 years and plan to retire in California. I enjoy boating, hiking, wine tasting and spending time with magnificent people. License #0E56262
I help clients navigate through Medicare health insurance. I make sure they know what’s available and understand what they are enrolling in. I serve all of San Diego County. License #0G74522