Understand Medicare Advantage before you choose.
Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, is another way to receive Medicare Part A and Part B benefits through a Medicare-approved private plan. Most plans include Part D drug coverage and some offer additional benefits.
Request a plan reviewCheck our service area
What to compare
Doctors and hospitals
Check whether the providers and facilities you use are in the plan network and whether referrals are required.
Total costs
Review the premium, deductible, copayments, coinsurance, and annual out-of-pocket limit—not only the monthly premium.
Prescription coverage
Most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D. Confirm that your medications and preferred pharmacies are covered.
Additional benefits
Some plans may include dental, vision, hearing, fitness, transportation, or OTC benefits. Availability and limits vary.
How Gala Health can help
We can review Medicare Advantage plans we represent in your county using your doctors, prescriptions, budget, and benefit priorities.
Compare represented plansGala Health does not offer every plan available in your area. Plan availability and benefits vary by county, eligibility, carrier, and plan year. Contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE for information about all options.
.ghs .steps{counter-reset:s;display:grid;gap:16px;margin:26px 0}.ghs .step{position:relative;padding:22px 22px 22px 72px;border:1px solid #d9e7e5;border-radius:16px;background:#fff}.ghs .step:before{counter-increment:s;content:counter(s);position:absolute;left:22px;top:20px;width:34px;height:34px;border-radius:50%;display:grid;place-items:center;background:#0b7a75;color:#fff;font-weight:800}.ghs .faq{margin-top:36px}.ghs details{border-top:1px solid #d9e7e5;padding:18px 0}.ghs summary{cursor:pointer;font-weight:800;font-size:18px}.ghs .kicker{margin-top:54px;color:#0b7a75;font-weight:800;letter-spacing:.1em;font-size:13px}.ghs .check{columns:2;column-gap:36px}.ghs .check li{break-inside:avoid;margin-bottom:10px}@media(max-width:700px){.ghs .check{columns:1}}A Medicare Advantage checklist for people turning 65
If you are turning 65, your Medicare Initial Enrollment Period generally lasts seven months: the three months before your birthday month, your birthday month, and the three months after. Before comparing Medicare Advantage plans for the first time, confirm your Part A and Part B effective dates.
Start about three months before your 65th birthday
Create a list of doctors, hospitals, prescriptions, pharmacies, travel needs, and the benefits you use most.
Compare Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
Consider provider freedom, networks, referrals, drug coverage, premiums, cost-sharing, and the annual out-of-pocket maximum.
Verify details before enrolling
Check every provider and medication directly against current plan information for your ZIP code and county.
Common Medicare Advantage plan types
HMO plans
Usually use a defined provider network and may require referrals for specialists.
PPO plans
Often allow out-of-network care at a higher cost and typically do not require referrals.
Special Needs Plans
SNPs serve people who meet specific eligibility criteria, such as certain chronic conditions or dual Medicare-Medicaid eligibility.
Other plan types
PFFS and Medical Savings Account plans may be available in some areas and follow different rules.
Turning 65 Medicare Advantage FAQs
Do I lose Medicare if I choose Medicare Advantage?
No. You remain enrolled in Medicare, but receive Part A and Part B benefits through the Medicare Advantage plan.
Can a Medicare Advantage plan have a $0 premium?
Some plans do, but you generally continue paying the Part B premium, and other deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance may apply.
Will my plan work while traveling?
Emergency and urgent care are covered as required, but routine out-of-area access depends on the plan type and network rules.
