What aspect of insurance does Medicare Advantage primarily cover?

Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, are designed to provide a comprehensive alternative to original Medicare, which consists of Part A (hospital services) and Part B (medical services). The core function of Medicare Advantage is to cover a wide array of overall healthcare costs, which includes not only hospital services but also outpatient care, preventive services, and oftentimes, prescription drug coverage.

One of the fundamental aspects of Medicare Advantage is that it integrates various components of healthcare services into a single plan, streamlining cost management and care coordination for beneficiaries. This means that beneficiaries generally pay a single premium for a plan that covers multiple services, fostering a more holistic approach to healthcare coverage compared to the original Medicare system, which may require beneficiaries to purchase separate supplemental plans or Part D for prescription drug coverage.

Additionally, Medicare Advantage plans often include benefits beyond those available in original Medicare, such as routine vision and dental services, wellness programs, and other health benefits that contribute to overall health management and cost reduction for enrollees. This comprehensive nature significantly aids in managing overall healthcare costs for beneficiaries, making it the centerpiece of what Medicare Advantage plans primarily cover.