Medicare Advantage: What You Need to Know
Turning 65 or Already on Medicare? Get the Facts About Medicare Advantage Plans in Your Area
If you live in Texas, Florida, Tennessee, Mississippi, Maryland, or Michigan, you're in the right place. At Arnett Evans & Company LLC, we specialize in helping Medicare-eligible individuals understand their options, avoid costly mistakes, and find plans that work best for their health and budget.
We know you have questions, and we're answering them all right here.
What Is a Medicare Advantage Plan and How Does It Work?
Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They combine Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) and often include Part D (prescriptions) all in one convenient plan.
In many areas across Texas and Florida, these plans offer $0 premiums, dental, vision, hearing, and even SilverSneakers gym memberships.
What's the catch with Medicare Advantage Plans?
No plan is perfect. Common concerns include:
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Smaller provider networks (especially in rural areas like parts of Mississippi and Michigan)
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Referral requirements for specialists
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Potential out-of-pocket costs if you're hospitalized
That said, millions of Americans choose Medicare Advantage each year for convenience and Added coverage.
What Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cover?
Most plans include:
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Hospital and doctor visits
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Wellness programs (fitness, nutrition, etc.)
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Some even offer transportation and over-the-counter benefits
In Texas, coverage varies by ZIP code, especially in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio.
How Much Does Medicare Advantage Cost?
In 2025, many plans in your area will have:
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$0-month premiums
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Low or no deductibles
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Predictable co-pays
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Out-of-pocket maximums to protect you financially
Plan costs vary by ZIP code, income, and health needs. We'll help you compare your options.
Can I Switch From Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare?
Yes. You can switch:
During Open Enrollment (Jan 1-Mar 31)
During Annual Enrollment (Oct 15-Dec 7)
If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
Can I Have Both Medicare Advantage and Medigap?
No.
You must choose one or the other. Medicare Advantage includes coverage in a bundled format, while Medigap is a supplement to Original Medicare.
Are Medicare Advantage Plans Free?
Many have $0 premiums, but no plan is truly free.
You still must pay:
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The Part B premium (usually $174.70/month in 2025)
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Possible co-pays and drug costs
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Out-of-network or specialist fees (varies by plan)
Which Medicare Advantage Plan Is Best for Me?
That depends on:
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Your ZIP code
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The doctors you see
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Prescription needs
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Preferred benefits like dental or wellness
Use our secure tool to compare plans in your area
What's the Difference Between HMO and PPO Plans?
HMO Health (Maintenance Organization):
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Must use in-network doctors
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Need referrals for specialists
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Lower cost
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization):
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Can see out-of-network providers (at higher cost)
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No referrals needed
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More flexibility
We'll help you understand which works best for your location. Especially if you're in rural Texas, coastal Florida, or urban Maryland.
Example of Medicare Plan Options and What They Cover.
Plan Type | Monthly Premium | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|
Advantage | 45 | Includes hospital, medical, and prescription drug coverage with wellness programs |
Supplement | 120 | Covers Medicare Part A and B deductibles and coinsurance, no prescription drugs |
Part D | 25 | Offers prescription drug coverage with a formulary for generic and brand-name drugs |
Advantage | 65 | Comprehensive coverage including vision, dental, and hearing benefits |
Supplement | 150 | Covers nearly all out-of-pocket costs for Medicare Parts A and B with no drug coverage |
Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cover All Hospitals and Doctors?
Not always.
Each plan has its own network. It's critical to check if your doctors and preferred hospitals are in-network before enrolling.
That's where we come in.
When Can I Enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan?
You can enroll:
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3 months before your 65th birthday, the month of your 65th birthday, and 3-month after your 65th birthday
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During AEP (Oct 15-Dec 7) to change plans
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During OEP (Jan 1-March 31) to switch or drop Advantage
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Anytime if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
Speak with a broker today: 901-657-4202
Where We Serve
We provide Medicare guidance and plan comparisons to clients in:
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Texas- Including Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio
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Florida- Including Miami, Orlando, Tampa
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Tennessee, Mississippi, Maryland, & Michigan - all counties supported remotely
All consultations are virtual or by phone - no office visit is required.
Ready to Explore Plans?
Compare Medicare Advantage Plans in Your Area
No pressure. No spam. Just answers and clarity.