How Do I Choose?

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage

1. Consider if you want coverage for dental, vision and other extra benefits



Medicare Advantage plans cover everything Original Medicare covers plus more, so if you want things like dental, vision or fitness benefits, a Medicare Advantage plan may be the right choice.

2. Think about what your total costs could be

Your total costs will vary based on the coverage you choose and the health services you use. But consider the below specifically when comparing which option fits your financial situation best:

· You get built-in financial protection with Medicare Advantage. The annual out-of-pocket limit provided can help keep your costs under control.

· Your premiums may be higher with Original Medicare. You could have higher monthly premium payments with Original Medicare than with Medicare Advantage, because you might want to add a Part D prescription drug plan or other additional coverage.

· You may pay more copays with Medicare Advantage than with Original Medicare. Depending on the health care services and providers you use, your copays could be more with a Medicare Advantage plan if costs vary in-network versus out-of-network.

· Medicare Advantage provides financial protection with an annual out-of-pocket limit. You can add protection to Original Medicare by buying a Medicare supplement plan.

· You could have higher monthly premium payments with Original Medicare than with Medicare Advantage, because you might want to add a Part D prescription drug plan and/or a Medicare supplement plan.

3. Consider how often you leave home

Original Medicare covers care you receive from any provider who accepts Medicare throughout the country. With most Medicare Advantage plans, you need to see providers who are in the plan network in order to avoid added costs. Network providers agree to the plan’s negotiated prices so you get to take advantage of the cost savings. If you travel a lot, consider how your Medicare coverage may work with this.

To help navigate answer all questions related to Medicare coverage, MedNOW Clinics recommends working with an insurance broker to navigate your options, and we are pleased to work with the following brokers:

· Colorado Insurance Advisors 888-222-3333

· Integrity Health Advisors 303-507-1216
  MK Ritchen
  mk@mkplans.com 
 www.integrityhealthadvisors.com