Why might a consumer with Original Medicare be interested in an MA plan?

A consumer with Original Medicare may be interested in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan primarily because these plans typically provide additional coverage beyond what is available through Original Medicare. Original Medicare, which includes Parts A and B, covers hospital care and outpatient services, but it does not include many additional services such as routine vision or dental care, fitness programs, or even some types of preventive care.

In contrast, MA plans often bundle these extra benefits, allowing consumers to get more comprehensive coverage in one plan. For example, many MA plans offer routine eye exams, dental services, and hearing aids as part of their coverage. This can be particularly attractive to consumers looking to enhance their healthcare options while possibly simplifying their overall healthcare management.

Additionally, MA plans often include prescription drug coverage, addressing the needs of consumers who also require medications—something Original Medicare does not provide unless the consumer enrolls in a separate Part D plan. The combination of these advantages makes MA plans appealing to those who want a broader range of healthcare services and want to manage their health care more effectively.