Can I Switch from Medicare Part B to Medicare Advantage?

Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage Plans, also known as Part C, are an alternative to Original Medicare. These plans are offered by private companies and provide all the benefits of Part A and Part B, often including additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage, vision, dental, and hearing services.

When Can You Switch?

There are specific times during the year when you can switch from Medicare Part B to a Medicare Advantage Plan. The most common periods are:

• Initial Enrollment Period: This is when you first become eligible for Medicare. It starts three months before you turn 65 and ends three months after the month you turn 65.
• Medicare Open Enrollment Period: This runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, you can make changes to your Medicare coverage, including switching to a Medicare Advantage Plan.
• Special Enrollment Period: Certain events, such as moving to a new area or losing your employer coverage, may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to switch plans outside the regular enrollment periods.

Medigap and Medicare Advantage

If you have a Medigap policy, you should know that you cannot use it with a Medicare Advantage Plan. Medigap is designed to cover costs that Original Medicare does not, but Medicare Advantage Plans usually offer additional benefits that make Medigap unnecessary.

How to Enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan

To switch from Medicare Part B to a Medicare Advantage Plan, follow these steps:

1. Review your current coverage and decide which benefits are most important to you.
2. Compare Medicare Advantage Plans available in your area. Look at the benefits, costs, and provider networks.
3. Contact the plan you want to join and follow their enrollment process. You can also enroll online via the Medicare website or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE.

Prescription Drug Coverage

Most Medicare Advantage Plans include prescription drug coverage. If you join a plan without drug coverage, you can enroll in a separate Medicare Drug Plan (Part D). Be sure to check the formulary, which is the list of covered drugs, to ensure your medications are included.

What Happens to Your Current Plan?

When you switch to a Medicare Advantage Plan, your enrollment in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) remains active, but you will receive your benefits through the new plan. If you have a Medicare Drug Plan, it will be canceled when your new coverage starts.

Do You Need Help?

Switching Medicare Plans can be confusing. If you need help understanding your options or enrolling in a Medicare Advantage Plan, Green Insurance Agency in Orange Park, Florida, can assist you. Our experienced team can guide you through the process and ensure you make the best choice for your healthcare needs.

We’re Here to Help

Ready to switch to a Medicare Advantage Plan or have questions about your coverage options? Call Green Insurance Agency today at 904-717-1176. Our team is here to help you every step of the way.