When it’s time to choose a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, it can be tempting to focus only on the lowest monthly premium. But the right plan isn’t always the cheapest one—it’s the plan that best fits your healthcare needs, doctor preferences, and budget. 

Medicare Advantage, also called Medicare Part C, combines Medicare Part A (hospital coverage) and Part B (medical coverage) into a single plan. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and often include benefits beyond what Original Medicare provides. 

In fact, according to KFF.org, more than 98% of Medicare Advantage plans include additional benefits you won’t get with Original Medicare alone. With so many options available, it’s important to understand what to look for when comparing plans. 

Key factors to consider when choosing a Medicare Advantage plan

Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan involves more than just comparing premiums. Here are some important factors to review before making a decision. 

Look beyond the monthly premium 

While many Medicare Advantage plans offer low or even $0 monthly premiums, it’s important to consider other costs such as deductibles, copays, and the plan’s maximum out-of-pocket limit. These costs can have a big impact on what you pay over the course of the year. 

Check if your doctors are in-network

Most Medicare Advantage plans use provider networks. If you want to continue seeing your current doctors or specialists, confirm that they’re included in the plan’s network before enrolling.

Review prescription drug coverage

If the plan includes prescription drug coverage, check whether your medications are covered and where they fall on the plan’s drug list (formulary). Drug costs can vary depending on the medication and pharmacy you use. 

Are additional Medicare Advantage benefits important to you? 

One of the main reasons people choose Medicare Advantage plans is the extra benefits many plans offer. These may include dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs, or allowances for certain health-related expenses.  

Not every plan offers the same benefits—or the same level of coverage. Before choosing a plan, consider which benefits you’re most likely to use and whether they’re worth any additional cost in the plan’s premium or out-of-pocket expenses. 

How much does a Medicare Advantage plan cost?

What you pay for a Medicare Advantage plan depends on the specific plan and insurance company you choose. Because these plans are offered by private insurers, costs can vary. 

Even if your Medicare Advantage plan has a $0 monthly premium, you’ll still be responsible for paying the Medicare Part B premium ($202.90 in 2026). 

Common costs associated with Medicare Advantage plans

• Monthly premium: About 67% of Medicare Advantage plans that include Part D drug coverage (MA-PD) have a $0 monthly premium. For plans that do charge a premium, the average is about $14 per month in 2026. 
• Yearly deductible: This is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your plan begins covering services. Many Medicare Advantage plans have no annual deductible, but amounts vary by plan. 
• Copays and coinsurance: Copays are usually set dollar amounts, making costs more predictable. Coinsurance is typically a percentage of the service cost. Under Original Medicare, for example, you generally pay 20% coinsurance for covered services. 
• Maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP): Medicare Advantage plans include a yearly limit on what you’ll pay for covered services. In 2026, the maximum in-network MOOP is $9,250, although many plans offer lower limits. Original Medicare does not include a yearly out-of-pocket maximum. 

Understanding the different types of Medicare Advantage plans

Medicare Advantage plans come in several types, each offering a different balance of cost, provider access, and flexibility. 

• HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Often lower-cost plans that typically require you to use in-network providers for care. 
• PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): Offers more flexibility to see out-of-network providers, usually at a higher cost. 
• PFFS (Private Fee-for-Service): Allows you to see any provider who agrees to the plan’s terms, though fewer providers may accept these plans. 
• SNP (Special Needs Plan): Designed for people with specific health conditions or circumstances, offering tailored coverage and provider networks. 

When comparing plan types, consider whether lower costs or greater flexibility matter to you. 

Choosing the right Medicare Advantage plan for you

Comparing Medicare Advantage plans means looking beyond the price tag. By reviewing costs, provider networks, prescription drug coverage, plan types, and additional benefits, you can make a more informed decision about which plan may best meet your healthcare needs and budget. 

Additional resources

• KFF.org: Medicare Advantage Plan Highlights for 2026 
• Medicare.gov: Types of Medicare Plans