Medicare Advantage is an optional health insurance plan that helps seniors fill coverage gaps from Medicare Part A and B , as well as access additional health benefits like prescription drug coverage.
Also known as Medicare C, Medicare Advantage offers various coverage options to support your well-being. Seniors looking to sign up for Medicare Advantage in Broward County, FL, can keep these tips in mind as they compare plans.
Overview of Broward County’s Senior Population
Although Broward County, FL, has a median age of 41, there is also a growing senior population with 24% of the population 60+, 17% 65+, and 12% 70 or older. With most adults in the area approaching middle age or in their golden years, there will be an increased demand for Medicare Advantage plans in the future.
Healthcare Needs
Seniors in Broward County, FL, may face the development of age-related conditions such as arthritis, degenerative diseases, and cancer. They could also experience changes to pre-existing conditions such as diabetes and heart disease that require additional care and interventions to support them as they grow older. Healthcare needs for seniors vary greatly by individual, but the need for comprehensive healthcare is universal.
Challenges Faced by Seniors in Broward County
Seniors in Broward County face numerous challenges related to their health, including:
Emotional Well-being
Many seniors who live alone deal with loneliness and depression. Accessing mental health services is important to help them connect and continue to develop new interests and experience novelty as they age.
Physical Fitness
Seniors with chronic health conditions are more likely to struggle with exercise. Lack of physical movement is linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety in all age demographics. Seniors who are not able to be as physically active as they need to are more likely to experience negative physical and mental health effects.
Medicaid Changes
With over 70,000 people changing into new Medicaid-capitated HMOs, patient choices are changing, and there may be difficulty finding the right primary care physician.
What Initiatives Are in Place to Address These Challenges?
The Florida Department of Health developed the DOH-Broward Health Equity Plan to focus on improving access to healthcare for all residents. Meanwhile, the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County (AAABC) is recognized as a leader for its impact on senior healthcare, including its Senior Technologies Programs that help reduce isolation among senior citizens.
The AAABC also offers the Tailored Caregiver Assessment & Referral Program (TCARE) to support family caregivers and help provide AI care companions to seniors.
The United Way Broward’s Dignity in Aging Initiative also exists to help seniors access healthcare and address their needs as they grow older. They want to foster ongoing dignity and independence among Broward County’s aging population.
Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage is a vital health insurance policy for millions of Americans. It is an alternative to Original Medicare and sold by private health insurance companies. Medicare Part C actually replaces the Original Medicare plan to offer more robust coverage for seniors.
What Are Medicare Advantage Plans?
Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, typically has three parts:
- Part A (Hospitalization Coverage) — This covers inpatient hospital stays, hospice care, and some home nursing services.
- Part B (Medical Insurance) — This covers certain doctors’ visits, outpatient medical care, medical supplies, and preventative healthcare.
- Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) — This covers basic prescription drug services for seniors who need medication.
Medicare Advantage can include additional benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t offer, like dental, vision, and wellness programs at no additional charge.
Types of Medicare Advantage Plans
The types of Medicare Advantage plans vary by provider, which gives seniors the power of choice. They can compare different policies and prices to find one that works best for their needs.
There are different types of Medicare Advantage plans available, each with its own rules and requirements. Here is an overview:
- Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) — These require a patient to choose a primary care physician (PCP) who handles all of their care and writes referrals to specialists as needed. You can only see doctors in your insurance network with an HMO.
- Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) — This type of health insurance does not require referrals to see a specialist and offers out-of-network coverage. It’s ideal for those with specialized health needs who may need additional care.
- Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) — PPFS plans allow patients to see any Medicare-approved doctor who accepts their plan. The plan determines how much services cost and how much a patient has to pay for treatment.
- Special Needs Plans (SNPs) — Medicare Advantage SNPs provide specialized healthcare for specific groups of people, like individuals in nursing homes, people with chronic health conditions, or those who have both Medicare and Medicaid.
Coverage and Costs
Coverage costs vary for Medicare Advantage depending on the type of plan you choose. It’s best to compare multiple providers and plans to determine the right fit for your needs. The average Medicare Advantage premium is about $18.50 per month, and there are some plans that have a $0 premium.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional benefits and coverage options that Original Medicare doesn’t. Some plans also have lower out-of-pocket costs. Most Medicare Advantage plans are in-network only, and you may need to get approval before certain drugs or services are covered.
Tips for Choosing the Best Medicare Advantage Plan
If you’re looking to enroll in Medicare Advantage in Broward County, FL, keep these strategies in mind:
Identify Your Needs
When you know your healthcare needs, it’s easier to find a plan that covers them. Think about your health now, any pre-existing conditions, and health risks that may impact your needs in the future. It can be beneficial to have coverage that gives you total peace of mind, but it’s also important to make sure coverage is affordable and you aren’t overpaying for services you won’t use.
Compare Providers
Comparing Medicare Advantage providers will help you get the best deal. Price isn’t the only factor to consider; make sure you also think about the types of coverage each plan offers, its network of physicians, and benefits that are included in your policy.
Look at Coverage Limits
There are rules to every Medicare Advantage plan, and you want to explore these carefully before enrolling. Ask about coverage limits and requirements for different services to make sure a plan offers all of the services you need.
Consider Each Plan’s Benefits
Many Medicare Advantage plans include hearing, dental, and vision services at a low cost or for free. You should choose a provider that offers you the maximum value for your dollar, so keep a close eye on benefits when choosing the right Medicare Advantage plan. Many seniors aren’t aware there are so many perks to Medicare Advantage plans, so it pays to ask and do your research!
Work With an Agent
A health insurance agent from Live Health can help you find the right Medicare Advantage plan for you. We help over 1,500 people every day get free health insurance quotes that meet their budget and suit their needs.
Contact Live Health Today to Learn More
Looking for Medicare Advantage in Broward County, FL? We can help. Our experienced agents are available to help you compare plans and identify the best providers for your needs. Whether you are buying this coverage for yourself or a loved one, we’re always available to help. Contact us now to get started.
