Do you want to know the Medicare coverage in Minnesota options beyond Original Medicare (Part A and Part B)? Then you’re in the right place because this article will let you know the Medicare options available in Minnesota. Another way to get Original Medicare is through a Medicare Advantage plan (or Medicare Part C). Medicare-approved private insurance plans offer these Medicare Advantage plans. By law, the plans must give at least the same level of benefits as the government-run Original Medicare. Also, many Medicare Advantage plans offer extra benefits like routine vision, hearing, dental, or prescription drugs.
There are plenty of types of Medicare Advantage plans. Your specific location determines the availability and costs of the plans you can choose. The following is a list of the Medicare Advantage plans offered in your service area:
- What are HMOs (Health Maintenance Organization) plans? This Medicare Advantage plan covers a network of providers that you must use (unless in the case of a medical emergency). If you use providers outside of the network, you may have to pay the full cost out-of-pocket for your service. This plan requires you to have a primary care doctor to serve most your health care needs. Your primary doctor can get you a referral if you need to see a specialist.
- What are PPOs (Preferred Provider Organization) plans? With this Medicare Advantage plan you will get more flexibility on what provider to choose. Like an HMO, you will have an inside network of providers but you are also covered if you choose an outside-of-network provider. If you choose an outside-of-network provider you may have to pay more for cost sharing. With this plan you don’t need a primary care doctor or referrals for specialist care.
- What are SNPs (Special Needs Plans)? If you have unique needs and have certain eligibility criteria, then you qualify for a SNP. You are eligible to enroll in a Special Needs Plan if you: Have both Medicare and Medicaid (dual eligible), live in an institution like a nursing home, or have certain chronic conditions. You have to be eligible for one of the three eligibility requirements. There also has to be a Special Needs Plan in your service area.
- What are MSAs (Medicare Savings Account plans)? In this Medicare Advantage plan, you will get a medical savings account with a high deductible plan. You must pay the annual deductible before the plan covers your health-care services. There will be money deposited into your savings account by the plan where you can pay off Medicare costs before you cover your deductible.
- What are Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) plans? Generally, this Medicare Advantage plan will not have a provider network. However, the provider you see must accept the plan’s terms and conditions each time you need a health care service. They also must agree to treat you each time you need a service.
Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans in Minnesota
You can get prescription drug coverage with a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan. This is both health care and prescription drug coverage all under one plan. This is an advantage over Original Medicare where you need to get a separate prescription drug plan (Medicare Part D). With a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan you’ll get Medicare Part A, Part B, and Part D benefits all under one plan.
If you want a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan, then check the formulary prior to signing up. A formulary is the list of prescription drugs that you plan covers. Each Medicare Advantage Drug plan covers different medications so be aware of your drug needs. The formularies can change at any time. If it does change, your plan will notify you.
Research and compare Medicare Advantage plans in Minnesota
If you live in Minnesota and want to sign up to a Medicare Advantage plan, then you should check what options are available to you. Research and compare what Medicare Advantage plan may be best for you. The county you live in and the zip code determine the pricing for your premiums. Be aware that there may be some Medicare advantage plans in your area that offer free premiums. Keep in mind that a free premium does not exempt you from paying other costs like coinsurance, deductibles, and copayments. Also as a Medicare Advantage enrollee, you still have to pay your Medicare Part B premium.
Please note that you may get extra benefits with a Medicare Advantage plan than you can with Original Medicare coverage. You may prefer having your prescription drugs all in one plan than having multiple plans (like with Original Medicare and Medicare Part D). However, it is a good idea to analyze your unique health-care needs and decide upon your research.
Do you want to compare your Medicare plans here in Minnesota? Then enter your zip code on this page to see the Medicare Advantage options available to you. If you need certain prescription drugs, you can narrow your search further by prescription drug name. There are many Medicare plan options available and we want to assist you in finding the best one that fits your needs.