If you live in Louisiana and want to know your Medicare coverage options, then you’re in the right place. Firstly, you can choose a different plan than Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) in Louisiana. For example, you can choose a Medicare advantage plan which generally has extra benefits than Original Medicare. This also applies in other states.
By law, Medicare Advantage plans cover at least the same coverage as Original Medicare (except hospice care which Part A covers). One advantage of Medicare Advantage is they generally provide more benefits like:
- Dental care
- Hearing aids
- Vision care
- Prescription medications
Medicare contracted private insurance companies offer these Medicare Advantage plans. In contrast, Original Medicare is a government-run program.
Please note that if you sign up for Original Medicare and want prescription drugs than you need to enroll in a separate Medicare drug plan. With a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan, your health care and prescription drug coverage can all be under one plan. With that said, as a Medicare Advantage enrollee, you still have to pay your Medicare Part B premium.
How to choose a Medicare Advantage plan in Louisiana
Depending on where you live in Louisiana determines the Medicare Advantage plans available to you. The costs and coverage of the plan can also vary depending on your county and zip code. Make a list of your needs for medical services and prescription drugs (if any). Then research the Medicare Advantage plans in your area: the costs and the coverage. Make sure that the plan matches the prescription drugs and services you need. Please note that plans are subject to change their list of prescription drugs (formularies) at any time. If the plan does change the formulary, you will get a notification from the plan.