Medicare Advantage Plans (MAP), also known as Part C, are another option for people with Medicare. MAPs are offered by private insurance companies that have been approved by Medicare.

MAPs typically bundle all of your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage, and may also include prescription drug coverage (Part D) and other benefits. MAPs may have lower out-of-pocket costs than Original Medicare, and they may offer more flexibility in terms of where you can receive care.

To be eligible for a MAP, you must:

• Be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B
• Live in the plan’s service area
• Not have End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure)

There are many different types of MAPs available, so it’s important to compare plans and choose one that meets your needs. Some of the factors you may want to consider include:

• The plan’s premium
• The plan’s network of doctors and hospitals
• The plan’s coverage of prescription drugs and other benefits
• The plan’s customer service

You can compare MAPs using Medicare’s Plan Finder tool. Once you’ve chosen a plan, you can enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. You can also enroll during a Special Enrollment Period if you have a qualifying event, such as moving, losing your job, or getting married.

If you’re not sure which type of MAP is right for you, you can talk to a Medicare-approved insurance agent. They can help you understand your options and choose a plan that meets your needs.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about MAPs:

• MAPs are not available in all areas.
• MAPs may have different rules about how you can use your benefits.
• MAPs may change their premiums or benefits from year to year.
• You can always switch from a MAP to Original Medicare during the Annual Enrollment Period or a Special Enrollment Period.

If you’re considering a MAP, it’s important to do your research and choose a plan that’s right for you.