Understanding the Plan Types
Medicare health plans offer an alternative to Original Medicare for receiving your Part A and Part B benefits. These plans are often referred to as Medicare Advantage Plans, or Part C. They are provided by private companies that have received approval from Medicare. These providers must follow specific rules established by the federal program to operate.
Most of these plans include drug coverage, known as Part D. This bundle of benefits can be attractive if you want additional services beyond basic medical care. Some plans may also offer dental, vision, or hearing benefits. It is important to review the specific details of each plan to see what is included.
When You Can Enroll
There is a specific window each year when you can make changes to your Medicare health coverage. This period is known as the Annual Enrollment Period. It opens on October 15 and closes on December 7. You should use this time to compare your current options with new ones.
Checking Your Local Availability
Not every plan is available in every location. Insurance companies decide whether a plan is offered to everyone in a state or only in certain counties. They may also offer multiple plans in the same area with different benefits and costs. You must check which plans are actually available where you live.
Plan availability can change from year to year. Companies can decide to join or leave the Medicare program. If a plan stops participating, you will need to join another health plan or return to Original Medicare. It is wise to verify that your preferred plan is still operating in your area.
Employer and Union Coverage
If you are still working or have union coverage, you need to be careful. Joining a Medicare Advantage Plan might cause you to lose your employer or union benefits. You should talk to your benefits administrator before making any changes. They can explain the rules that apply to your specific situation.
If you drop your employer coverage, you may also lose coverage for your spouse and dependents. In some cases, you may not be able to get this coverage back later.
Other Medicare Health Plans
There are other types of health plans that are part of Medicare but are not Medicare Advantage Plans. These include the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE. The coverage offered by these plans varies depending on the specific type. Some include Part A and Part B coverage, while most only offer Part B.
Some of these alternative plans also include drug coverage. You should understand how these plans differ from standard Medicare Advantage options. They may have different eligibility requirements and service areas. Comparing these options can help you find the right fit for your health needs.
Common questions
What is the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?
Can I join a Medicare Advantage Plan if I have employer coverage?
What happens if my plan leaves Medicare?
When does the Annual Enrollment Period end?
Are all Medicare Advantage Plans the same?
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Get your free reviewLast reviewed October 2026. Rules and prices can change; check the sources below for the official details.