Seniors Get Quality Care, Enhanced Benefits with Medicare Advantage

Seniors in Medicare Advantage Receive Higher Quality Care, Enhanced Benefits

Seniors in Medicare Advantage spent fewer days in a hospital, were subject to fewer hospital re-admissions, and were less likely to have “potentially avoidable” admissions, for common conditions ranging from uncontrolled diabetes to dehydration, a recent study has shown. 

More benefits; lower cost

In addition, many participants in Medicare Advantage have better access to preventive care and disease management than they otherwise would have. Because Medicare Advantage enhances benefits at lower cost, seniors also receive a great value “an average $56 a month more in benefits for fee-for-service plans and an average $71 a month more for managed care options, compared to the original Medicare program. Overall savings for seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage is an estimated $100 a month.

Medicare Advantage plans have unique service options for seniors, including: prescription drug coverage, vision, and dental coverage. Some Medicare Advantage plans even include health club memberships and other health and wellness services. 

For Ohioans interested in enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan, click here for a list of the 147 Medicare Advantage plans serving seniors in our state.  Online open enrollment begins November 15, 2009 and goes through December 31. Coverage secured during this open enrollment period will begin January 1, 2010.

Those who need enrollment assistance (starting November 15) and/or information about financial assistance programs can call the Ohio Department of Insurance’s OSHIIP program at 1-800-686-1578 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., or Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week.  In addition, seniors can click here for a guide from the insurance industry for help in choosing a Medicare plan and help choosing one with prescription drug coverage.