Best Medicare Advantage Plans

If you’re unsatisfied with the benefits or costs that come along with original Medicare, you do have options. A Medicare Advantage plan is a private health insurance plan authorized by the federal government for men and women who qualify for original Medicare. Medicare Part C plans include all of the benefits of original Medicare and may also include additional services or cost-saving benefits. Understanding how Medicare Part C works and how it differs from original Medicare can help you make a more informed decision about your health. 

The Best Medicare Advantage Plans

• Best for Easy Access to Benefits and Member Support: Aetna
• Best for Medicare Advantage Plans: Humana
• Best for Easy Access to Benefits: Cigna
• Best for Wide Network of Doctors, Hospitals and Specialists Across the U.S.: Blue Cross Blue Sheild
• Best for Retired Seniors Older Than 50: UnitedHealthcare through AARP

Do you think that a Medicare Advantage plan might be right for you? Let’s take a look at some of the best Advantage plans currently on the market. 

1. Best for Easy Access to Benefits and Member Support: Aetna

If you’re hesitant about signing onto a health maintenance organization (HMO) plan because you’re afraid of accidentally going out of network, consider a plan from Aetna. Aetna offers medical concierge services that can help you find local resources and understand your coverage. All of Aetna’s plans come with a $0 medical deductible and there is a $0 premium option for both HMO and preferred provider organization (PPO) plans.

Aetna Medicare Advantage plans have some of the widest ranges of coverage available. Aetna offers both HMO and PPO plans. If you have a doctor or specialist that you want to stay with, you can save money by choosing a more flexible plan.

Aetna offers a limited selection of special needs plans in 12 states. Its plan benefits go beyond the services offered by Original Medicare and include local healthy living resources, prescription drug deliveries and SilverSneakers fitness membership programs.

Most plans also include vision and dental coverage options. With wide availability and 24/7 on-call nursing services, Aetna is one of the best Medicare Advantage providers for individualized plan solutions.   

2. Best for Medicare Advantage Plans: Humana

If you’re searching for a simple plan that offers multiple benefits rolled into a single plan, consider a Medicare Part C plan from Humana (NYSE: HUM). Humana’s HumanaChoice plan includes a wealth of benefits not covered by parts A and B, including prescription drugs, hearing services, dental care and more. You’ll even receive an allowance for over-the-counter drugs. 

3. Best for Easy Access to Benefits: Cigna

Cigna (NYSE: CI) offers affordable Medicare Part C insurance that almost anyone can fit into their budget. Most plans include $0 premiums and select add-ons like fitness plans and health coaching are also free of charge. Your plan will likely also include a $0 deductible, which means you can begin using your benefits immediately.  

Some individuals have special health conditions or care needs that require more intensive treatments, personalized care treatments or more individual specialist attention. These services may be limited under some Medicare Advantage plans. Cigna offers personalized plans that offer an increased range of services depending on your individual health needs. Special needs plans include access to a wider range of specialists, regular health assessments outside of annual physicals and care transition assistance.

Cigna is one of the country’s top choices for those living with a special medical condition, with a worldwide network of over 86 million members.

4. Best for a Wide Network of Doctors, Hospitals and Specialists Across the U.S.: Blue Cross Blue Shield

One of the largest concerns that Advantage plan holders have is its coverage network. Consider a plan that offers a wider network to ensure that you can get comprehensive care no matter where you are.

BCBS offers Advantage plan holders as one of the widest networks of accepted doctors and specialists. You can find BCBSfacilities in most states. Highmark even offers special health plans for those living on a Native American reserve or other protected land area — a service not offered by most other Medicare Advantage providers. 

BCBS also offers a number of healthy living incentives, including a unique “Passport Rewards” program that gives you financial incentives to stay up to date with preventive care treatments and services. 

5. Best for Retired Seniors Older Than 50: UnitedHealthcare through AARP

AARP members can access a range of plan options from UnitedHealthcare. All of UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Part C plans include $0 copays when you see your primary care physician, and most plans also include a $0 deductible. You may also be able to claim a free gym membership through UnitedHealthcare’s Renew Active program. 

When it comes to choosing the best Medicare supplement plan, it's crucial to find a reliable and financially stable insurance company that offers comprehensive coverage, exceptional customer service, and competitive pricing.  With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to make the right choice.

Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans

Before delving into the top insurance companies, let's take a moment to understand what Medicare Advantage plans are and how they work. Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C plans, are designed to offer coverage for Parts A & B, including optional extras that comes from the carrier. These plans are offered by private insurance companies, providing additional benefits such as coverage for deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. There are also differing rules and out-of-pocket costs which you must consider with each carrier.

Key Factors to Consider

When searching for the best Medicare Advantage plan, it's important to keep several key factors in mind. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you find a plan that fits your specific healthcare needs and budget. Here are the main factors to consider.

• Coverage Options: Different insurance companies offer various Advantage plans. You want to know:
• Coverage rules, referral requirements, etc.
• Is your current physician in the network?
• Out-of-pocket costs you must cover
• Part D Coverage that’s offered
• Are vision, hearing, dental, wellness and other offerings available?

• Price: While coverage is crucial, it's equally important to find a plan that fits your budget. Insurance companies have different pricing structures that may vary depend on factors such as your age, gender, location and health status, so compare premiums and determine if the benefits offered justify the cost.
• Financial Stability and Reputation: Opting for a reputable insurance company with a strong financial standing is essential. Research the company's reputation, customer reviews, and financial ratings to ensure you're choosing a reliable provider.

How to Choose the Best Medicare Advantage Plan

Now that you have an overview of some of the top Medicare Advantage insurance companies, it's time to narrow down your options and choose the best plan. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you in the decision-making process:

1. Assess Your Healthcare Needs: Determine the coverage you require based on your current healthcare needs and any potential future needs.

1. Compare Plans: Request quotes and compare the coverage, benefits, and costs of different Medicare Advantage plans offered by various insurance companies.

1. Research Customer Reviews: Read customer reviews and ratings of the insurance companies to gauge their reputation for customer satisfaction and claims processing.

1. Check Financial Ratings: Verify the financial stability of insurance companies by checking their ratings from reputable agencies.

1. Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with an independent insurance agent or a Medicare advisor who can provide unbiased guidance and help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion

Choosing the best Medicare Advantage plan is a critical decision that can significantly impact your healthcare coverage and financial well-being. By considering factors such as coverage options, price, and the reputation of insurance companies, you can find a plan that meets your specific needs. Don't hesitate to compare quotes, read reviews, and seek professional advice to ensure you make the right choice and secure the best Medicare Advantage plan for your future.

Frequently Asked Questions