Navigating through misleading Medicare Advantage ads

answer: Be wary of Medicare Advantage ads you receive on TV, radio, social media, and in the mail. Many of these ads tout zero monthly premiums and free vision, hearing, dental, and other benefits, but that’s not always what’s advertised.

Medicare Advantage or MA plans (also known as Medicare Part C) are government-approved health plans sold by private insurance companies that you can choose as an alternative to Original Medicare. The majority of Advantage plans are managed care policies, such as HMOs and PPOs, that require you to receive care within a network of physicians within your geographic area. You can sign up for either during the general registration period from October 15th to December 7th.

MA plans have exploded in popularity in recent years as insurance companies flood airways with advertisements touting lower-cost options with many additional benefits. The advertisements are often from celebrity touts.

Note, however, that the federal government considers many claims in MA ads to be fraudulent and misleading. Some advertisements imply that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services endorses or recommends a particular plan. Some companies promise more cost savings than they actually receive. Additionally, if you choose the wrong plan, your doctor may not be a member of that plan’s network or you may end up paying out-of-pocket for medically necessary treatment.

In September of this year, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services began cracking down on these ads, but you should still protect yourself. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision.

We’ve got your needs covered: When evaluating MA plans, make sure the plan you’re considering covers your favorite doctor and the medical facilities you usually go to. Also, make sure that all prescription drugs you take are listed on your drug plan’s prescription list.

To compare plans, a good place to start is to call your doctor’s office manager to find out which Advantage plans are accepted and which are recommended. Next, go to the Medicare Plan Finder tool located at: Medicare.gov/plan-compare To compare plans in your area,

Please understand the details: Although some MA plans offer no monthly premiums, in reality, your original Medicare costs, including Part B premiums, deductibles and copayments for covered services, are The customer will still be responsible for the cost. Additionally, you may have to pay more out-of-pocket if you see an out-of-network doctor. Also, if the plan is his HMO, it typically does not cover out-of-network non-emergency care, so the individual may be responsible for the full cost. PPO, on the other hand, allows you to go out-of-network, but you usually have to pay more to do so.

Let’s dig a little deeper: Many MA plans advertise free vision, hearing, and dental benefits not covered by traditional Medicare, but these benefits are often limited. For example, a plan with free dental coverage may only cover cleanings and his x-rays. Extensive procedures such as root canals and caps may not be covered, or your plan may limit the amount paid. Check your coverage details to avoid surprises later.

Get help: Contact your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). ShipHelp.org Or call us at (877) 839-2775. These are nonprofit programs that provide unbiased, one-on-one Medicare counseling and assistance.

You can also report misleading MA claims to the Senior Medicare Patrol Resource Center. SMP resources.org Or call us at (800) 447-8477.