If you’ve chosen to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ve got quite a few options to consider in San Antonio. There are a number of private insurance companies that offer these plans. Before you decide, let’s talk about what kind of Medicare Advantage plans there are so that you can choose the type that will give you the best healthcare coverage.
Kinds of Medicare Advantage Plans
There are five different kinds of Medicare Advantage plans.
- Health Maintenance Organizations
- Preferred Provider Organizations
- Private Fee-for-Service
- Special Needs Plans
- Medical Savings Accounts
Each of these types of Medicare Advantage plans has its own set of rules and regulations, so you’ll need to understand the limitations of each before you enroll.
Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO)
HMOs are one of the more common kinds of Medicare Advantage plans. They usually come with the lowest monthly premium – sometimes even $0! However, HMO plan members are limited to a small network of providers and facilities. There is no coverage for any services received outside of the HMO network, except for in emergency situations.
Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO)
PPOs are very similar to HMOs and are just as popular in San Antonio. While PPO members also have a network of providers, the network is usually much larger than those of HMO plans. Also, PPO plans do offer coverage outside of the network, though the member may pay more in out-of-pocket expenses.
Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS)
PFFS plans are not as common among Medicare Advantage plans. There is no network for these plans. Providers who accept a PFFS plan have agreed to the plan’s payment terms. Providers may choose to discontinue the relationship at any time, so PFFS plan members must verify this before every visit.
Special Needs Plans (SNP)
SNPs are limited to individuals with unique circumstances. There are some available for people with chronic conditions, people who are institutionalized, and people who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. SNP plans are tailored for these individuals so that they may receive the care they need.
Medical Savings Accounts (MSA)
MSAs are also not overly popular in San Antonio. These plans have a high deductible that members must meet before their coverage begins. However, these plans usually have a set amount that is deposited into a special savings account each year. This “allowance” can be used to help pay the deductible or for any qualified healthcare expense, much like an HSA in employer-sponsored insurance plans.
Medicare Advantage Plans in San Antonio
Not every Medicare Advantage plan is offered in every location. Some plans may be offered in one county, but not the neighboring county. Individuals are only eligible to enroll in plans available in their county of residence.
There are approximately 80-90 different Medicare Advantage plans offered in San Antonio. Some of the more popular ones include:
- AARP Medicare Advantage Choice (PPO)
- AARP Medicare Advantage (HMO)
- AARP Medicare Advantage SecureHorizons (HMO)
- Aetna Medicare Plus Plan (PPO)
- Aetna Medicare Premier Plan (HMO)
- Amerigroup Medicare-Medicaid Plan
- Amerivantage Classic (HMO)
- Blue Cross Medicare Advantage Choice Plus (PPO)
- Cigna Preferred Medicare (HMO)
- Clover Health Choice (PPO)
- Devoted Health BeWell (HMO C-SNP)
- Humana Gold Plus (HMO)
- Wellcare No Premium (HMO)
As you can see, there are many plans to consider. That’s why it’s important to use an independent agent to help you with your Medicare benefits. We can look at all plans, find out which ones you are eligible for, and then help you choose a plan based on your needs.
If you live in or around New Braunfels, Texas, give our office a call today. We’ve got knowledgeable, licensed agents ready to assist you on your Medicare journey.