Medicare Advantage Plans Kansas City 2025
Are you exploring Medicare Advantage plans in Kansas City? With a range of options available, it’s important to understand the differences between plans, their costs, and the benefits they offer.
This guide will provide you with essential information to help you navigate through the options, identify which Medicare Advantage plans in Kansas City are best suited to your healthcare needs, and explain how and when to enroll. Whether you’re newly eligible for Medicare or considering a switch, we’ll arm you with the knowledge you need to make an informed choice about your Medicare Advantage coverage in Missouri.
Key Takeaways
- Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas City, also known as Part C, combine benefits of Medicare Parts A and B and often include extra coverage like dental, vision, and fitness programs, but the benefits can vary depending on the selected plan and private provider.
- Eligibility for Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas City includes individuals aged 65 or older, those under 65 with certain disabilities, and people with ESRD or ALS, with enrolment in Medicare A and B as a prerequisite. There are specific enrollment periods such as Initial Coverage Election, Annual, and Special Enrollment Periods.
- In Kansas City, beneficiaries can choose from a range of Medicare Advantage providers, with 92 plans available in 2024. When comparing plans, factors like average monthly premium, plan rules, and CMS performance ratings should be considered. Local resources like KC Shepherd’s Center and MO SHIP offer assistance with Medicare navigation.
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Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas City
Medicare Advantage Plans, also known as Medicare Part C, are an alternative to Original Medicare, offering a convenient all-in-one solution. These Medicare plans combine all the benefits of Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) and usually include prescription drug coverage, providing comprehensive coverage to Medicare beneficiaries.
The benefits offered by these advantage plans, however, can vary depending on the resident’s location in Kansas City and the specific plan they select.
Such variance in benefits is because these plans are provided by Medicare-approved private insurance companies. These companies have the liberty to offer additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as dental, vision, and fitness programs.
This adds a touch of personalization, allowing Kansas City residents to choose a plan that best suits their medical and health needs.
Types of Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas City
Kansas City residents can choose from four types of Medicare Advantage Plans, including:
- HMO
- PPO
- PFFS
- SNP
This provides them with a variety of options to suit their healthcare needs. While all these plans offer a comprehensive benefits package, each has its unique characteristics and rules regarding how beneficiaries receive services.
Health maintenance organizations (HMO) and PPO plans are the most popular types of Medicare Advantage plans in Kansas City. HMOs require beneficiaries to use a network of doctors and hospitals for their care, except in emergency situations. P
POs, on the other hand, provide more flexibility, allowing beneficiaries to use both in-network and out-of-network providers, although using in-network providers can result in lower out-of-pocket costs.
PFFS plans allow beneficiaries to receive care from any doctor or hospital that agrees to the plan’s terms of payment. Lastly, SNPs cater to individuals with specific health conditions or those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, providing tailored benefits to meet their unique needs.
Additional Benefits Offered by Kansas City Medicare Advantage Plans
One of the key advantages of Medicare Advantage plans in Kansas City is that they offer additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare. These may include:
- Coverage for dental care
- Coverage for vision care
- Coverage for hearing aids
- Fitness programs
For example, Anthem’s Medicare Advantage plans offer Medicare Advantage coverage for Original Medicare out-of-pocket costs, along with additional benefits such as dental, vision, and fitness program benefits.
This comprehensive coverage can significantly reduce out-of-pocket health care costs for beneficiaries, making Medicare Advantage Plans an attractive option for many Kansas City residents.
Eligibility and Enrollment for Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas City
While Medicare Advantage Plans offer a range of benefits, it’s essential to understand who is eligible for these plans and the enrollment periods.
Who is eligible for Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas City:
- Individuals aged 65 or older
- Residents with certain disabilities under the age of 65
- Individuals who have received at least 24 Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board Disability Insurance payments
- People with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
However, enrollment in Medicare Part A and Part B is a prerequisite for joining a Medicare Advantage Plan.
Eligibility Criteria for Kansas City Medicare Advantage Plans
To be eligible for a Medicare Advantage Plan, individuals must be either seniors aged 65 and older or those under 65 with a qualifying disability. Individuals under 65 with disabilities are eligible for Medicare Advantage after receiving at least 24 Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) Disability Insurance payments.
Enrollment in both Medicare Part A and Part B is a prerequisite for joining a Medicare Advantage Plan. Medicare Advantage Plans also cover beneficiaries with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), providing them with additional options for healthcare coverage.
However, beneficiaries must reside in the plan’s service area to enroll in a particular Kansas City Medicare Advantage Plan.
Enrollment Periods for Kansas City Medicare Advantage Plans
Once you meet the eligibility criteria, it’s important to understand when you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan. The Initial Coverage Election Period includes the three months before an individual’s 65th birthday, the month of their birthday, and the three months following.
There is also an additional rule for individuals with a qualifying disability to enroll three months before or after their 25th month of receiving disability benefits.
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period occurs from October 15 to December 7 each year, allowing beneficiaries to select or change their Medicare Advantage Plan. A Special Enrollment Period is granted to Kansas City residents who experience specific life events such as losing their job or moving out of their plan’s service area, allowing them to make changes outside the standard enrollment times.
During the Open Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31, beneficiaries in Kansas City can switch between Medicare Advantage Plans or revert to Original Medicare.
Comparing and Choosing Kansas City Medicare Advantage Plans
In 2024, Kansas City residents have a choice among 92 Medicare Advantage plans, reflecting an increase in options compared to 90 plans available in 2023. With such a wide range of options, it’s crucial to compare plans to find one that best fits your health needs and budget.
When comparing plans, consider various factors such as the average monthly premium, the plan rules, and the performance ratings. Understanding these factors will arm you with the necessary information to make an informed decision about your healthcare coverage.
Factors to Consider When Comparing Kansas City Medicare Advantage Plans
One of the key factors to consider when comparing Medicare Advantage Plans is the average monthly premium. In 2023, the average monthly premium for a Medicare Advantage Plan in Kansas City was $6.17, with the availability of $0 monthly premium options.
Each Medicare Advantage Plan in Kansas City also has its own set of rules on how beneficiaries receive benefits, including whether you need a referral to see a specialist or if you have to go to doctors, facilities, or suppliers that belong to the plan for non-emergency or non-urgent care.
Additionally, all plans are rated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on a scale of one to five stars, based on factors such as performance and member satisfaction.
Tools and Resources for Comparing Kansas City Medicare Advantage Plans
Thankfully, there are several tools and resources available that can make the process of comparing Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas City easier. Medicare.gov’s Plan Finder is a comprehensive online tool that allows Kansas City residents to compare the details of available Medicare Advantage plans, including costs, coverage options, and plan performance ratings.
SelectQuote offers comparison services specifically tailored for Kansas City residents, giving them the ability to evaluate various Medicare Advantage Plans and find answers to their coverage questions.
Additionally, licensed insurance agents can provide valuable in-person support by helping residents make sense of Medicare Advantage plan benefits and select the best plan according to their healthcare needs.
Top Medicare Advantage Providers in Kansas City
In Kansas City, there are twenty Kansas Medicare Advantage Plans available, providing a significant array of options for residents. These plans offer a range of innovative benefits targeted towards wellness and healthcare planning, designed to enhance the health and well-being of beneficiaries.
In an effort to make health care more affordable, these plans include reduced cost-sharing options, making it easier for beneficiaries to manage their health care expenses. Additionally, beneficiaries can take advantage of rewards and incentive programs offered by Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas City, which encourage proactive health management.
Prominent Kansas City Medicare Advantage Providers
One of the prominent Medicare Advantage providers in Kansas City is Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, which offers both HMO and PPO options through its Blue Medicare Advantage. The HMO products are operated by Blue-Advantage Plus of Kansas City, Inc., while their PPO products are offered by Missouri Valley Life and Health Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City.
It’s important to note that enrollment in Blue Medicare Advantage plans is subject to annual contract renewals, highlighting the importance of checking for continued availability each year.
Medicare beneficiaries can enroll in Blue Medicare Advantage plans via the CMS Medicare Online Enrollment Center located on the medicare.gov website.
Kansas City Medicare Advantage Plan Ratings
Medicare Advantage plans in Kansas City are rated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on criteria such as quality of care and customer service. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, provide a valuable tool for beneficiaries when comparing and choosing plans.
UnitedHealthcare provides five-star rated Medicare Advantage plans in Kansas, including:
- Erickson Advantage Freedom (HMO-POS)
- Erickson Advantage Liberty (HMO-POS)
- Erickson Advantage Liberty no Rx (HMO-POS)
- Erickson Advantage Signature (HMO-POS)
Additionally, AARP Medicare Advantage plans available in Kansas City for 2023 have received a 4-star rating from CMS. The options include:
- AARP Medicare Advantage Choice Plan 2 (PPO)
- AARP Medicare Advantage Choice (PPO)
- AARP Medicare Advantage Patriot (HMO-POS)
- AARP Medicare Advantage Patriot (PPO)
- AARP Medicare Advantage Choice Plan 1 (PPO)
All of these plans are available at a $0.00 monthly premium.
Local Resources for Kansas City Medicare Beneficiaries
Kansas City Medicare beneficiaries can also access local resources to assist them in navigating their Medicare coverage. For example, the KC Shepherd’s Center and Missouri State Health Insurance Program (MO SHIP) provide Medicare counseling to beneficiaries in Kansas City, offering support such as enrollment assistance and insurance policy guidance.
Additionally, there are several programs in Kansas that provide assistance and support to seniors with Medicare-related questions and insurance needs. These programs include:
- Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) program: This program offers answers to Medicare-related questions and helps seniors select insurance plans.
- Kansas Area Agencies on Aging: These agencies provide information and options counseling specifically tailored to Medicare, helping seniors make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.
- Kansas Medicare Savings Program: This program assists seniors with out-of-pocket insurance costs such as premiums, deductibles, and copayments.
These programs are designed to help seniors navigate the complexities of Medicare and ensure they have access to the healthcare coverage they need.
For further assistance, Kansas City residents can receive help with Medicare questions and coverage comparisons by calling 1-833-641-4938.
Kansas Senior Medicare Patrol
The Kansas Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) plays a critical role in preventing Medicare fraud and abuse. The activities of the Kansas SMP include:
- Educating recipients on how to protect against identity theft and healthcare fraud
- Providing training for volunteers
- Conducting outreach and education through presentations and individual sessions to address potential Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse
SMP is a volunteer-based program that seeks civically engaged individuals to help safeguard the health and finances of older citizens, which also contributes to saving Medicare funds. Volunteers provide essential services like:
- Administrative support
- Information distribution
- Exhibit staffing
- Group presentations
- Individual counseling
- Managing complaints and referrals
When beneficiaries suspect Medicare fraud or errors, SMP aids in filing complaints and refers these issues to appropriate state and federal agencies for further investigation.
Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services
The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) offers information and FAQs to assist Kansas City residents in gaining a thorough understanding of their Medicare coverage options. This resource aims to provide clarity on the available choices and support informed decision-making.
KDADS administers the Senior Care Act, offering services such as:
- Attendant care
- Care management
- Homemaker services
- Respite care
These services, supported by the federal government, are available to Medicare beneficiaries in need of additional support, ensuring they receive their Medicare benefits.
Through the Behavioral Health Services division, KDADS offers resources and support for individuals with mental health or substance abuse issues, complementing the mental health coverage provided by Medicare.
Summary
In conclusion, Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas City offer a comprehensive suite of benefits that not only combine the benefits of Original Medicare but also provide additional benefits like dental, vision, and fitness programs. With a variety of plan options available, beneficiaries have the flexibility to choose a plan that best fits their healthcare needs and budget.
Whether you’re a senior citizen, an individual with a qualifying disability, or someone looking for more comprehensive coverage than what Original Medicare offers, Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas City could be an excellent choice for you. Eligibility criteria and enrollment periods are clearly defined, and with a plethora of local resources available, Kansas City residents are well-equipped to navigate their Medicare coverage options.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ What is the most highly rated Medicare Advantage Plan?
The most highly rated Medicare Advantage plan is determined by considering the “Best Medicare Advantage Plan Companies of 2024.” It’s important to carefully review the options to find the one that best meets your specific needs.
→ What are the pitfalls of a Medicare Advantage Plan?
In some cases, Medicare Advantage plans have restrictive networks, meaning higher costs for out-of-network care or no coverage at all. This can be especially challenging for those who require out-of-state coverage or live in rural areas with limited networks.
→ Is Medicare Advantage cheaper than Medicare?
Medicare Advantage can be cheaper than Original Medicare, as many Medicare Advantage plans offer affordable or $0 monthly plan premiums, unlike the fixed Medicare Part B premium. So, depending on your income and the plan’s features, it may be a cost-effective option.
→ What is the alternative to a Medicare Advantage Plan?
The alternative to a Medicare Advantage Plan is a Medigap plan, also called Medicare Supplement Insurance, which helps cover out-of-pocket costs not paid by Original Medicare. This policy is a supplement to Original Medicare coverage and does not offer additional benefits like dental, vision, and hearing.
→ What are the types of Medicare Advantage Plans available in Kansas City?
In Kansas City, residents can choose from four types of Medicare Advantage Plans: Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS), and Special Needs Plans (SNP). This gives you a range of options to consider when selecting a plan.
ZRN Health & Financial Services, LLC, a Texas limited liability company
Russell Noga is the CEO of ZRN Health & Financial Services, and head content editor of several Medicare insurance online publications. He has over 15 years of experience as a licensed Medicare insurance broker helping Medicare beneficiaries learn about Medicare, Medicare Advantage Plans, Medigap insurance, and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.