5 Things to Consider Before Choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan

What to Know So You Can Make a Confident, Informed Choice

If you're turning 65 or looking to change your Medicare coverage, you’ve probably heard about Medicare Advantage plans — also known as Part C. These plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare and often combine hospital (Part A), medical (Part B), and sometimes prescription drug coverage (Part D) into one convenient package.

But convenience isn’t the only thing to think about. Medicare Advantage plans are not one-size-fits-all. Before you enroll, here are five key things to consider:

1. What Doctors and Hospitals Are in the Network?

Most Medicare Advantage plans operate as HMOs or PPOs, meaning they have networks of providers. You may be required to choose doctors, specialists, and hospitals within that network, especially in an HMO.

• Ask: Are your current doctors covered?

• Tip: If you travel frequently or live part-time in another state, a PPO plan with out-of-network benefits might offer more flexibility.

2. What Are the Out-of-Pocket Costs?

While many Medicare Advantage plans offer low or $0 premiums, you still need to evaluate other costs:

• Copays for doctor visits or hospital stays

• Coinsurance for specialists or durable medical equipment

• Out-of-pocket maximums (which can vary by plan)

Compare the total cost of care, not just the monthly premium. For some people with frequent medical needs, Original Medicare with a Medigap plan may end up being more cost-effective.

3. Does the Plan Include Prescription Drug Coverage?

Not all Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription drug coverage. If you enroll in a plan that doesn’t include it, you may not be able to purchase a standalone Part D plan — and that could lead to penalties later.

• Check: Are your prescriptions covered under the plan’s formulary (drug list)?

• Ask: What are the copays for the medications you take regularly?

4. What Extra Benefits Does the Plan Offer?

One of the biggest draws of Medicare Advantage is the extra perks not covered by Original Medicare. These might include:

• Dental, vision, and hearing coverage

• Over-the-counter allowances

• Fitness memberships (like SilverSneakers)

• Telehealth services

• Transportation to medical appointments

Not all plans offer the same extras, so it’s important to look closely at what’s included.

5. Are There Any Restrictions or Prior Authorizations?

Medicare Advantage plans often require prior authorization for certain procedures or treatments. That means you’ll need approval from the plan before receiving care.

• Ask: How easy is it to get the care you need?

• Consider: Will you need referrals to see specialists?

These steps can sometimes delay care — so understanding the process up front is key.

Bonus: Don’t Forget the Annual Enrollment Periods

Even if you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you have opportunities to review and switch plans each year:

• Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 – December 7

• Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: January 1 – March 31

During these times, you can switch plans, add coverage, or return to Original Medicare.

Final Thoughts

Medicare Advantage plans can be a smart, cost-effective choice — but only if the plan fits your specific health needs, budget, and lifestyle. Don’t choose based on a TV commercial or a friend’s recommendation. Do your homework, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

I work with people every day to compare plan options, review provider networks, and make sure the plan they choose truly fits their life. If you want help navigating your Medicare options, I’d love to talk with you.

Top 10 Reasons Employees Value Voluntary Benefits (Even More Than Salary)

Why smart employers offer more than just a paycheck

It’s no secret that compensation matters — but when it comes to attracting and retaining top talent, salary alone isn’t enough. In fact, studies show that employees often place more long-term value on benefits than a slightly higher paycheck. One of the most powerful tools in your benefits toolkit? Voluntary benefits.

Voluntary benefits are employee-paid insurance and services that offer added protection, peace of mind, and convenience — all at group rates and often through payroll deduction. These plans are optional, but highly appreciated.

Here’s why they matter so much:

1. They Provide Real-World Financial Protection

Accidents, illnesses, and unexpected emergencies can throw a major wrench into anyone’s budget. Voluntary benefits like accident, hospital indemnity, and critical illness insurance help employees avoid financial disaster when life throws them a curveball.

2. Employees Appreciate Having a Safety Net

Even with great medical insurance, most people have deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket costs. Voluntary benefits help bridge the gap — offering cash benefits to use on anything from treatment to rent or groceries.

3. They Offer More Flexibility Than Traditional Coverage

Voluntary benefits are typically portable and can often stay with the employee if they leave the company. Many plans offer customization, giving employees more control over their coverage based on their personal or family needs.

4. It Helps Employees Feel Valued and Cared For

Offering benefits beyond the basics sends a message: “We care about your well-being — not just while you’re at work, but in life.” That kind of support creates loyalty, builds trust, and fosters a stronger work culture.

5. They're Affordable — Especially Through Payroll Deduction

Because voluntary benefits are often offered at group rates, employees enjoy affordable coverage with convenient payroll deductions. Some premiums can even be paid pre-tax, saving money for both employees and employers.

6. Coverage Can Extend to Family Members

Many voluntary plans allow employees to add spouses and dependents, giving families additional protection. This is a huge value-add for employees with children, aging parents, or a single-income household.

7. They Address the “Gaps” in Major Medical Plans

Most health plans don’t cover dental, vision, hearing, or disability — but voluntary benefits do. These offerings help round out a benefits package and support overall health and productivity.

8. They're Easy to Understand and Use

Many employees are familiar with how voluntary benefits work and can enroll with confidence. The claims processes are typically straightforward and fast, especially for fixed-benefit plans.

9. They Improve Recruitment and Retention

In a competitive job market, a well-rounded benefits package can set your business apart. Voluntary benefits can be the deciding factor for candidates comparing job offers — and a major incentive for existing employees to stay.

10. Peace of Mind is Priceless

Knowing they have support if something goes wrong lets employees focus on their work — not worry about what might happen. That peace of mind often means more than a few extra dollars on their paycheck.

Final Thought: It’s Not Just About the Money

Voluntary benefits don’t replace a good salary — they enhance the overall value of employment. For employers, offering these benefits often comes at no direct cost, but the return in employee satisfaction, loyalty, and peace of mind is invaluable.

If you’re an employer looking to build a stronger, more attractive benefits package — or an employee curious about what your options really cover — I’m here to help.

Medicare 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Parts A, B, C, and D

Understanding the Basics So You Can Make Informed Choices

If you’re approaching age 65 or helping a loved one navigate their healthcare options, chances are you’ve come across the word “Medicare” — and maybe felt overwhelmed by the many parts and plans involved. You’re not alone.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, and for certain younger individuals with disabilities. But what trips most people up is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all system. It’s made up of multiple parts, each covering different services.

Let’s break it down into plain language:

Part A: Hospital Insurance

What it covers:

• Inpatient hospital stays

• Skilled nursing facility care (short-term)

• Hospice care

• Some home health care

What to know:Most people don’t pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working. However, there are deductibles and coinsurance costs that can apply.

Part B: Medical Insurance

What it covers:

• Doctor visits

• Outpatient care

• Preventive services (like screenings and flu shots)

• Durable medical equipment (like walkers or oxygen)

What to know:Part B has a monthly premium, which varies based on income. There’s also an annual deductible and typically a 20% coinsurance for most services.

Part C: Medicare Advantage (All-in-One Plans)

What it is: Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They bundle together Parts A and B, and often Part D (prescription drug coverage), along with extra benefits.

What it may include:

• Vision, dental, and hearing benefits

• Wellness programs and gym memberships

• Prescription drug coverage

• An annual out-of-pocket limit (unlike Original Medicare)

What to know:You still pay your Part B premium (and sometimes an additional plan premium), but you get coordinated care through a plan network, like an HMO or PPO.

Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage

What it covers:

• Prescription medications

How it works:Part D plans are standalone plans offered by private insurers or included as part of some Medicare Advantage plans.

What to know:Plans vary in cost and coverage, so it’s important to review the formulary (list of covered drugs) to make sure your prescriptions are included.

How the Parts Work Together

Medicare Part	What It Covers	Who Offers It	Key Details
Part A	Hospital care	Federal government	Usually premium-free
Part B	Medical services & supplies	Federal government	Monthly premium required
Part C	All-in-one plans (A + B + often D)	Private insurers	May offer extra benefits
Part D	Prescription drugs	Private insurers	Standalone or bundled

Still Confused? You’re Not Alone.

Choosing the right Medicare path depends on your health needs, your budget, and your preferences for how you receive care. Some people prefer the flexibility of Original Medicare (Parts A & B) with a separate drug plan and supplemental coverage (Medigap). Others like the convenience of Medicare Advantage (Part C) with built-in extras.

That’s where having a knowledgeable guide can make a huge difference.

Need Help Deciding?

I specialize in helping people just like you understand your Medicare options and find coverage that fits your life — not the other way around.

Whether you’re aging into Medicare or helping a loved one plan ahead, I’m here to answer your questions and simplify the process.