At Flagship Health, we know that choosing the right healthcare can be complex, especially with so much information—and misinformation—out there. While we don’t sell Medicare plans, we do specialize in primary care services tailored to the needs of seniors and veterans. Understanding your Medicare options, especially Medicare Advantage, can help you make the best choices about your healthcare, and we’re here to provide guidance every step of the way.

Be sure to attend our free Medicare informational sessions, where we feature trusted, physician-approved experts who can answer all your questions. 

Read on to learn the 11 common myths about Medicare Advantage.

💰Myth #1: Medicare Advantage Plans Are More Expensive

Medicare Advantage can actually reduce costs for many seniors, with an average of $2,541 in annual savings on out-of-pocket expenses. Plus, these plans often provide additional benefits such as dental, vision, and prescription discounts, all of which can contribute to better health outcomes.

🧑‍⚕️Myth #2: Medicare Advantage Limits Your Choice of Doctors

Medicare Advantage plans often offer wide networks of trusted doctors and hospitals, similar to other types of health insurance. Some plans even allow out-of-network options, so you can choose what best fits your healthcare needs. 

🔄Myth #3: You Can’t Switch Plans Once Enrolled

Medicare Advantage has an Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7, allowing seniors to switch to different plans or back to Original Medicare if desired. 

⚕️Myth #4: Original Medicare Covers All My Medical Needs 

Original Medicare covers hospital visits (Part A) and medical services (Part B), while Medicare Advantage plans often bundle these with other essentials, like dental and prescription drug coverage. 

🆚Myth #5: Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Plans Are the Same

Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans differ significantly. Medicare Advantage bundles medical services into one plan, while Medigap fills specific gaps in Original Medicare. 

✈️Myth #6: Medicare Advantage Plans Don’t Cover Travel

Some Medicare Advantage plans offer coverage for urgent care and emergencies while traveling, with select plans even providing worldwide coverage. This travel-friendly aspect can be beneficial for seniors who enjoy staying active and visiting family. 

💙Myth #7: Medicare Advantage Doesn’t Cover Chronic Conditions

Medicare Advantage plans are available to everyone, including those with chronic conditions. Certain plans even offer specialized options for conditions like COPD, heart disease, and diabetes.

👍🏾Myth #8: Medicare Advantage Enrollment Is Complicated

Enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan is straightforward. What can get complicated, according to our patients, is getting a complete understanding of all the available options. If you need clarity on how Medicare Advantage works, what each plan covers exactly, the cost of each plan, etc. – then getting guidance from a Medicare-licensed agent is a good idea. 

🚖Myth #9: Medicare Advantage Is Less Reliable than Original Medicare

Medicare Advantage plans are required to follow the same regulations as Original Medicare. Many plans offer extra benefits like gym memberships and transportation to medical appointments, adding value and convenience for seniors. 

💲Myth #10: High Deductibles and Copays Are Common

In fact, Medicare Advantage plans frequently have lower deductibles and copays than Original Medicare, making them a more affordable choice. 

🗓️Myth #11: You Can Only Enroll During the Annual Enrollment Period

While AEP is the primary period for enrollment, certain life events qualify you for Special Enrollment Periods, allowing you to enroll or switch plans outside of AEP. 

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At Flagship Health, we’re here not only to provide primary care but also to offer guidance on how healthcare decisions impact your well-being. We’re a trusted healthcare partner, not an insurance provider, dedicated to offering comprehensive, quality care for seniors and veterans. Contact us to learn more about how we can help support your health journey with the right primary care and Medicare Advantage knowledge.