Are All Medicare Advantage Plans the Same? What You Need to Know

Choosing a Medicare plan shouldn’t feel like pulling weeds in the summer heat. At Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC, we’ve helped countless folks in Thibodaux, Louisiana sort through the confusion between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. And we do it with a smile, a neighborly handshake, and clear answers.

Let’s walk through it together so you can feel good about your Medicare decision.

Understanding Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans

First things first — Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans are not the same. While both help cover your medical needs, the way they work is different.

Original Medicare includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). It covers most medically necessary services. But here’s the catch — Original Medicare doesn’t include prescription drugs, dental, or vision. That means you’ll need to buy a Medicare Supplement or a separate Part D drug plan to get full coverage.

Medicare Advantage plans (also known as Part C) are a bit different. These plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). They include Part A and Part B, but most also include prescription drug coverage and extra benefits like dental, hearing, and vision.

So, if you’re wondering whether you should choose Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage, think about what kind of coverage best meets your needs.

The Difference Between Original Medicare and a Medicare Advantage Plan

Let’s break down the difference between Original Medicare and a Medicare Advantage plan in simple terms:

• Original Medicare lets you see any doctor who accepts Medicare, nationwide. No referrals needed. You’re in control.

• Medicare Advantage plans usually work with a network of doctors. You may need a referral to see a specialist.

• Original Medicare does not include dental, vision, or hearing unless you buy extra coverage.

• Medicare Advantage plans include these extra benefits and sometimes wellness programs or fitness memberships.

• Out-of-pocket costs can be lower in Medicare Advantage, but you may pay more if you go outside the network.

• With Original Medicare, you can add a Medicare Supplement plan to help with costs.

Still with us? Great. Now, let’s talk dollars and sense.

Medicare Costs: Premiums, Deductibles, and Drug Coverage

Medicare can get a little tricky when it comes to costs. Here’s what to watch for:

• With Original Medicare, you usually pay a monthly premium for Part B. Most folks pay the standard amount, but it can go up based on income.

• You also have to cover deductibles, coinsurance, and other out-of-pocket costs. That’s why some people buy a Medicare Supplement plan.

• Medicare does not include drug coverage. So, you’ll need to buy a separate Part D plan.

Now let’s look at Medicare Advantage plans:

• Many Medicare Advantage plans offer $0 premiums — yes, really. But not all.

• You still pay your Part B premium, and you may have other costs like copays or coinsurance.

• These plans include prescription drug coverage, so you don’t need to buy a separate drug plan.

• Each plan you choose may have its own deductible, copayment rules, and out-of-pocket maximums.

Does it sound like a lot? It is — but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Call Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC at (985) 803-8999, and we’ll walk you through it all.

Choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan in Louisiana

Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies, and they’re different based on where you live. Here in Thibodaux, there are many plan options with all kinds of benefits and premiums.

When it’s time to choose a Medicare Advantage plan, think about:

• Do you want extra benefits like dental or vision?

• Are your doctors in the plan’s network?

• How much is the monthly premium?

• What’s the deductible and out-of-pocket maximum?

• Are your prescriptions covered?

Remember — no two Medicare Advantage plans are exactly alike. They vary by plan, provider network, and covered services.

Things to Consider When Choosing Between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage

We get this question a lot — What should I consider when choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage? Great question. Here’s a helpful list:

• Budget – Can you handle unexpected medical bills, or do you want a predictable monthly cost?

• Doctors and Hospitals – Do you have favorite doctors that you want to keep?

• Prescription Drug Needs – Are your medications covered in the plan’s drug list?

• Extra Benefits – Do you want perks like hearing aids, dental cleanings, or fitness programs?

• Travel – Do you want national coverage or are you mostly local?

Can You Switch From Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage?

Yes, you sure can. If you’re already on Original Medicare and want to try something new, you can switch to a Medicare Advantage plan during certain enrollment periods.

The same goes for folks who want to go back from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare. Just keep in mind — when you switch, you may need to reapply for Medicare Supplement coverage, and you might not always be approved.

Why Local Help Makes a Difference

There’s a lot of information out there. You could spend hours reading websites or sitting on hold with national call centers. But why do that when you’ve got friendly, local experts just around the corner?

At Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC, we live right here in the community. We know which plans are offered by private companies in our area. We understand the Medicare Advantage vs Original Medicare debate from a local point of view.

We don’t just hand you a brochure. We sit down with you, ask the right questions, and offer real advice.

Because at the end of the day, we’re not just helping you get coverage. We’re helping you get peace of mind.

Get Medicare Help That’s Friendly and Local

Choosing a Medicare plan can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. With the right guidance, you’ll find a Medicare plan that fits your health, your budget, and your life.

Whether you’re just about to enroll in Medicare, or you’re exploring options during Open Enrollment, let us help you figure out the path forward.

Call Bourgeois Insurance Agency, LLC today at (985) 803-8999 or stop by and say hello in Thibodaux, Louisiana.

We’re here for you — every step of the way.