How to Get a Medicare Advantage Plan: Step-by-Step Guide

Overview

If you’re looking to simplify your Medicare coverage—or add benefits Original Medicare doesn’t offer—you might be considering a Medicare Advantage plan. Also known as Medicare Part C, these plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.

Understanding how to get a Medicare Advantage plan can help you avoid missing key enrollment periods and ensure you choose a plan that fits your budget and health needs. This guide breaks the process down step-by-step so you can make an informed, confident decision about your coverage.

What Is a Medicare Advantage Plan?

A Medicare Advantage plan (Medicare Part C) is an alternative to Original Medicare. It bundles your Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) into one plan, often with added benefits. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), nearly half of Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans.

With a Medicare Advantage Plan, you may have coverage for things Original Medicare doesn’t cover—like Medicare Advantage plans with routine dental services. Many Medicare Advantage plans may also include vision and/or hearing benefits.

Some plans even include prescription drug coverage (Part D) and other benefits,

If you’re unsure which type of plan fits your lifestyle—such as HMO, PPO, or MSA options—read our detailed guide on Medicare Advantage plan types.

Keep in mind that benefits, costs, and availability vary by plan and ZIP code. Always review plan details carefully before enrolling.

When Can You Enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan?

You can only get or switch a Medicare Advantage plan during specific enrollment windows:

1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):
   When you first become eligible for Medicare (typically around your 65th birthday), you have seven months to enroll—three months before, your birthday month, and three months after.

2. Annual Enrollment Period (AEP):
   Runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. During this time, anyone with Medicare can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage plan.

3. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA-OEP):
   From January 1 through March 31, if you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to a different one or return to Original Medicare.

Missing these deadlines may mean waiting until the next enrollment period, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to certain life events, such as moving or losing coverage.

To explore all options during these timeframes, see our comprehensive guide to Medicare plans.

How to Get a Medicare Advantage Plan: Step-by-Step

1. Confirm Your Eligibility

To enroll, you must already have Medicare Parts A and B and live in the plan’s service area. You can’t enroll in Medicare Advantage if you don’t have both Parts A and B active.

2. Compare Plans in Your Area

Plans vary by location and provider network. Use online tools, such as Healthcare.com, to see what’s available in your ZIP code. You can compare premiums, deductibles, and benefits side by side to find one that matches your health needs and budget.

For additional help comparing plan features, check out our article on how to compare Medicare Advantage plans.

3. Check Provider Networks and Coverage

Each plan has its own network of doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies. Make sure your preferred healthcare providers are included.

Also review the plan’s prescription drug formulary—a list of covered medications—to confirm your prescriptions are included.

4. Evaluate Costs and Benefits

Even if a plan has a $0 premium, it’s important to look at copays, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums. Medicare Advantage plans have an annual cap on what you’ll pay out of pocket for covered services, which can help limit your expenses.

Remember: With a Medicare Advantage Plan, you may have coverage for things Original Medicare doesn’t cover—like dental, vision, or hearing care. These extras can make a big difference depending on your healthcare priorities.

You can also review our roundup of the best Medicare Advantage companies for insight into leading insurers offering strong plan options nationwide.

5. Enroll During the Right Period

Once you’ve found a plan you like, you can enroll:

• Directly through the insurance company’s website

• On Medicare.gov

• Through a licensed insurance agent who can walk you through your options

After you enroll, your new coverage typically starts on the first day of the following month.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan can feel overwhelming, but avoiding these common pitfalls will make the process smoother:

• Missing enrollment deadlines—mark your calendar early.

• Assuming all plans include drug coverage—always double-check.

• Ignoring provider networks—make sure your doctors participate.

• Choosing solely on premium—out-of-pocket costs matter, too.

Taking a few extra minutes to compare coverage details can help you avoid frustration and surprise expenses later.

How to Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan

If you’re currently enrolled in Original Medicare, you can switch to Medicare Advantage during the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15–Dec 7) or the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (Jan 1–Mar 31).

Once you switch, you’ll get your coverage through the private insurer offering your Medicare Advantage plan. You’ll continue paying your Part B premium, and you can’t use a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policy with Medicare Advantage.

If you ever decide to move back, our guide on switching from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare explains how that process works and what to consider before making changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have both Medicare Advantage and Medigap?
No. You can only have one or the other. Medigap can’t be used with Medicare Advantage plans.

Can I switch Medicare Advantage plans mid-year?
Yes, but only during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (Jan 1–Mar 31).

Are dental, vision, and hearing benefits included?
Many plans do include these benefits, but offerings vary. Always review plan details before enrolling.

Is prescription drug coverage included?
Many Medicare Advantage plans include Part D drug coverage, but not all. Check the plan’s formulary to confirm.

Bottom Line

Getting a Medicare Advantage plan doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding your eligibility, comparing plans, and enrolling at the right time, you can find coverage that fits your health and budget needs.

If you’re ready to explore your options, visit Healthcare.com to compare Medicare Advantage plans near you or speak with a licensed Medicare insurance agent who can help you navigate the process. With the right information, you can feel confident in your Medicare decisions.