Medicare Advantage Plans also called “Part C” or “MA Plans”, are offered by Medicare-approved private companies which follow the rules set by Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans provide the same benefits as Medicare Part A and B plans, also known as Original Medicare, and are government-led programs. Nevertheless, there are many differences between the two. Most Medicare Advantage plans include drug coverage and are another way of getting your Original Medicare coverage. As mentioned, Medicare Advantage Plans are exclusively run by private insurance companies and offer benefits that Original Medicare does not cover such as additional benefits like dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
If you are thinking about getting a Medicare Advantage plan and find yourself needing help or guidance, you can contact a Medicare Advisor, an agent under contract with Medicare who is responsible for selling specific Medicare plans.
What Are Medicare Advisors?
Medicare brokers, Insurance agents, and Medicare underwriters are all different types of Medicare advisors. Advisors work for private companies and sell only certain Medicare plans:
- Medicare Advantage plans
- Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.
There are insurance agents who sell insurance plans besides Medicare but there are also ones who are specialized in Medicare plans only. It would be wise to find a specialized, unbiased Medicare advisor who has wide knowledge and can offer you a variety of plans from different providers. While you decide what kind of health insurance fits you best, based on your personal needs and situation, it is important you know all the pros and cons of various Medicare plans which is possible by contacting a quality Medicare advisor.
Finding the right Medicare advisor in your area might demand some time and effort from your end. Still, it is well worth the reliable and various information you will get in return which will consequently help you decide which Medicare Advantage plan is right for you.
Agents, Brokers, and Underwriters: What is the difference?
Both Medicare agents and brokers can help you identify and enroll in an Advantage plan suitable for you.
Generally, a broker doesn’t work for only one firm, can help you compare plans from different providers and connect you to companies and agents that best suit your needs. This is what differentiates brokers from agents who usually work for a specific insurance company.
Medicare Underwriters are responsible for estimating your health status during the process of applying for Medicare health insurance. Other than that, underwriters evaluate whether or not you are eligible for insurance. If you qualify for insurance, they determine at which price, and with what exclusions and limits they can offer you coverage.
Finding The Right Medicare Advisor
Firstly, you should take some time to compare available insurance plans, and only then should you look for a Medicare advisor.
To start your search, you can surf the web by typing “Medicare advisors near me” using a search engine of your choice. Your other option would be contacting and going through a professional agent association in your state. Finally, with the information you have gathered, you can contact Medicare advisors or health insurance companies that sell these Medicare plans in your area.
It is advisable to find an advisor who specializes in Medicare plans as a specialist may have more knowledge, resources, and skill in finding the most suitable insurance plan for you individually.
Craig W. Hansen is an insurance professional and co-founder of William & Michael Advisor Group LLC and Jersey Insurance Solutions. Craig has served his clients in many facets of the insurance industry, always with the same goal: excellence in service while building solid, long-term, lasting relationships. With over a decade of experience in the insurance benefits industry, Craig’s clients know they can call on him anytime and receive platinum service with a smile.
