➤ How does Medicare Advantage work?
A private insurer approved by Medicare provides your Part A and Part B coverage, and usually drug coverage, in one plan. Medicare pays the plan each month, and you follow the plan’s network and rules while paying its premium and copays.
➤ Do I still have Medicare if I join Medicare Advantage?
Yes. You remain in Medicare and keep your Medicare rights and protections. The plan replaces how your benefits are delivered, so you use the plan’s card instead of your Medicare card for most care, and you can return to Original Medicare during set enrollment periods.
➤ Do I still pay Part B with Medicare Advantage?
Yes. You keep paying the Part B premium, which is $202.90 in 2026 and projected at $209.50 for 2027. Some plans may reduce part of it, but not all plans offer that benefit, and you pay it on top of any plan premium.
➤ What does Medicare Advantage cost in 2027?
The national average premium is $12 a month for 2027, down from $14.37. On top of that you pay Part B, copays and coinsurance up to the plan’s out-of-pocket maximum, plus drug costs up to $2,400.
➤ Does Medicare Advantage include drug coverage?
Most plans do. These are called MA-PD plans and include Part D coverage with a formulary and drug tiers. For 2027 the drug deductible can be up to $700 and the out-of-pocket cap on covered drugs is $2,400.
➤ Do I have to use a network?
Usually, yes. HMOs generally cover only in-network care except emergencies and urgent care, while PPOs also cover out-of-network care at a higher cost. Every plan covers emergencies anywhere in the U.S. Check the network directory for your doctors and hospitals before you enroll.
➤ What extra benefits can Medicare Advantage include?
Plans may include dental, vision, hearing, fitness or over-the-counter allowances. Not all plans offer all benefits, and amounts vary by plan and county, so check the Evidence of Coverage before you enroll. Original Medicare does not cover routine dental, vision or hearing aids, which is why these extras appeal to many people.
➤ How many people use Medicare Advantage in 2027?
About 34 million people are projected to be enrolled in 2027, roughly 47% of everyone with Medicare. They can choose from about 5,532 plans nationally, though the choices in any one county are far fewer.
➤ When can I join Medicare Advantage for 2027?
During Annual Enrollment, October 15 to December 7, 2026, with coverage starting January 1, 2027. New enrollees can also join during their Initial Enrollment Period around their 65th birthday. Members already in Medicare Advantage can also make one change from January 1 to March 31, 2027.
➤ Can I leave Medicare Advantage later?
Yes. You can switch plans or return to Original Medicare during Annual Enrollment, or from January 1 to March 31, 2027. Buying Medigap later may require health questions unless you have a guaranteed issue right.
