ADVANTAGE PLANS
Don't Choose a Medicare Advantage Plan because Joe Namath suggests to do so during football season. Don't Choose a Medicare Advantage program because Magic Johnson suggests to do so because he's about to become a senior citizen (64 yrs old). Choose an Advantage plan because you did your homework! Current Laws state Advantage Plans must be based on ALL that Medicare has to offer. With that being said, why would you allow yourself to be taken ADVANTAGE of? Don't let the Freebies out way your medical needs.After speaking with several reps in different programs, my summation is Advantage programs work for most people who are on limited incomes, limited by physical mobility, driving around town or are just happy with the comforts of home and friends. Patients are limited to the doctors in their network (HMO) and their state of residence.
There are many freebies offered to encourage member sign ups. Medications are less expensive if mail order programs are used.
If you plan to do any traveling Advantage plans cover “emergencies only” while you’re away from your state of residence. Otherwise, medical assistance outside of your state is limited to self-help OTC methods that can get expensive.
MEDICARE
If your retirement finances are sound through investments and/or a part-time job “straight Medicare” (in my opinion) maybe the best way to go! It allows you to go to any doctor (PPO) anywhere in the world with 80% coverage. You can purchase a plan C supplemental insurance to cover the 20% the Medicare doesn’t pay to have 100% coverage in most cases. If you still travel as an active senior, Medicare can cover you anywhere you go for almost all medical needs including emergencies.
I have been advised the reason you see Advantage Plans promoted more often is the commission payout is larger for the brokers or companies that sell it and the medical plan benefits are very limited and often refer patients to physical therapy first versus needed surgeries.
Do Your homework and get and unbiased opinion here! https://dealioz.com/businesses/medicare-vs-advantage-plans/