Can I Switch from Medicare Part B to Medicare Advantage?

Understanding Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage

Understanding Medicare and Your Current Plan

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that primarily covers individuals who are 65 or older, some younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease. If you’re currently enrolled in Medicare Part B, you might be considering switching to a Medicare Advantage Plan. This alternative can offer different benefits that might better suit your health care needs.

What is Medicare Advantage?

A Medicare Advantage Plan, also known as Medicare Part C, is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare. These plans are offered by private companies approved by Medicare and can include additional benefits such as vision, dental, and hearing coverage. Some Medicare Advantage Plans also include prescription drug coverage, known as Medicare Drug Plans.

Comparing Coverage: Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage

When comparing Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, it’s important to look at what each plan offers:

Original Medicare: Includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). You can add a separate Medicare Drug Plan (Part D) and Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) for additional coverage.
Medicare Advantage: Combines Part A, Part B, and usually Part D. These plans often offer extra benefits not covered by Original Medicare.

When Can You Switch to a Medicare Advantage Plan?

Switching from Medicare Part B to a Medicare Advantage Plan requires you to follow specific enrollment periods:

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): This is a 7-month period that starts three months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends three months after.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period: From January 1 to March 31, you can switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another or return to Original Medicare.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): From October 15 to December 7, you can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage Plan. Changes made during this period take effect on January 1.

Special Enrollment Periods

In certain situations, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to switch to a Medicare Advantage Plan outside of the usual enrollment periods. Some qualifying situations include:

Moving out of your plan’s service area
Losing your current coverage
Having Medicaid
Qualifying for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs

Steps to Switch from Medicare Part B to Medicare Advantage

If you decide to switch, follow these steps:

Review different Medicare Advantage Plans available in your area.
Compare the coverage and benefits to your current plan and needs.
Contact the plan you want to join and request enrollment.
Once your new plan gets your request, you will get a confirmation. Your new coverage will start the month after the plan gets your request.

What Happens If You Want to Switch Back?

If you’re not satisfied with your Medicare Advantage Plan, you can return to Original Medicare during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period or the Annual Enrollment Period. You may also have a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify based on your situation.