Posted on Thursday, August 14, 2025
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by AMAC Medicare Advisory Service
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Each fall, we are inudated with “Free” Medicare Advantage Plan advertisements. Post cards and commercials alike boast extra benefits like dental, vision, and even money back on your Medicare premiums. If you’re wondering whether these offers are legitimate or just slick advertising, you’re not alone.
AMAC’s Medicare Advisory Service is committed to helping American citizens navigate the often-confusing world of Medicare. Here’s what you need to know about those eye-catching ads—and how to separate fact from fiction.
What Is a Medicare Advantage Plan?
Medicare Advantage Plans, also known as Part C, are private insurance options that function as an alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B). Ads often call them “All-in-One,” “Bundle Plans,” or “All Inclusive” to make them sound more appealing. Some consumers refer to them as “Free” Medicare Advantage Plans, but we will explain later why this is problematic.
Medicare Advantage Plans can include extra benefits, but they all have different costs and rules.
Many Medicare Advantage Plans offer extra benefits that go beyond what Original Medicare covers. This can include:
- Dental and vision coverage
- Over-the-counter allowances
- Gym memberships
- Acupuncture and massage therapy
However, not every plan includes extra benefits. Coverage levels vary by provider and plan type. Extra benefits may also have limited availability depending on your area.
Bottom line: Always read the fine print and compare plans carefully.
Are Medicare Advantage Plans Really Free?
Commercials often highlight $0 premiums, hence the misnomer: “Free” Medicare Advantage Plan. While many have low or $0 premiums, you’re still responsible for paying your Medicare Part B premium, which is typically deducted from your Social Security check. So no, they are not “free” Medicare Advantage Plans.
Plus, you may still face:
- Deductibles
- Copayments
- Coinsurance
Costs can add up, depending on how often you use healthcare services. However, there is a spending cap—also known as the Maxium Out-of-Pocket (MOOP)—that offers enrollees some protection.
The MOOP limits your annual out-of-pocket expenses for hospital and medical services. Once you’ve met your MOOP the plan pays 100% of covered medical expenses for the rest of the year. In plan year 2025, the Maximum Out-of-Pocket is $9,350 for in-network services and $14,000 for in-network and out-of-network services combined. Nevertheless, plan providers can choose to offer a lower MOOP.
What About the Part B Give Back?
Some Medicare Advantage Plans advertise a Part B Give Back or Buy Back—a feature that reduces your monthly Part B premium. This benefit means more money in your Social Security check each month.
But be careful as not all plans offer it and the giveback amount varies. Eligibility also depends on your location and the insurance carrier. If you’re considering a plan with this feature, speak with a licensed insurance agent to understand exactly how much you might receive.
Network Plans
Here’s what the commercials leave out: enrolling in a Medicare Advantage Plan means you’re using a private insurer to manage your healthcare needs instead of Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans do not cancel your Original Medicare coverage, but they take the place of it. This means that your insurer manages your coverage and you must follow their network rules.
Main Network Types:
- HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) – requires referrals to see specialists and you can only use in-network doctors (except in emergency situations)
- PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) – no referrals required and you have the flexibility to use out-of-network doctors (at higher costs)
- PFFS (Private Fee-for-Service) – you must confirm with your provider at each visit whether they will accept the plan
Each Medicare Advantage Plan operates differently. If your preferred doctor or hospital isn’t in the network, you could pay significantly more—or not be covered at all.
How to Choose the Right Plan
All Medicare Advantage Plans are not created equal.
That’s why it’s vital to:
- Compare coverage and extra benefits
- Check doctor and hospital networks
- Confirm prescription drug coverage
- Understand costs like premiums, copays, and deductibles
AMAC’s licensed Medicare Advisors will guide you every step of the way. We’ll research which plans your doctors accept, review drug coverage, and help you find a plan with extra benefits that suit your lifestyle.
Don’t Be Misled by Medicare Ads
Medicare Advantage Plans can be a smart choice, but only if you know what you’re signing up for. Remember that ads might leave out critical details—so always look beyond the headlines.
For help with Medicare plans – or any questions you may have about Medicare – contact AMAC’s Medicare Advisory Service at 1-855-611-4856 or request a quote below.
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