What is a Medicare Advantage plan?
Original Medicare is the standard hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) individual coverage offered by the federal government. Original Medicare does not cover some routine services, such as vision and dental.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered through private insurance companies, such as Sentara Health Plans. The plans offer a full range of benefits beyond the Part A and Part B coverage you get from Original Medicare.
As an extra convenience, many Medicare Advantage plans can also include Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage and important supplemental benefits. It eliminates the need for a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy. Every Medicare Advantage plan is regulated by the government to ensure you get everything Original Medicare offers and more.
Part A: Hospital
- Inpatient hospital stay
- Skilled nursing facility
- Hospice care
- Skilled home health
Part B: Medical
- Doctors' services
- Outpatient care
- Medical supplies
- Preventive services
- Some drugs (specific criteria)
Part C: Medicare Advantage
- Combines Parts A and B with Managed Care
Part D: Prescription coverage
- Prescription drugs
Sentara Medicare versus Original Medicare
To ensure all of your needs are met, most of the Medicare Advantage plans offered by Sentara Medicare are comprehensive plans featuring hospital, medical, and prescription drug coverage. Plus, you'll get supplemental benefits and better protection from out-of-pocket costs.
| Sentara Medicare (Medicare Advantage) |
Original Medicare | |
| Part A (Hospital insurance) | Sentara Medicare (Medicare Advantage) | Original Medicare |
| Part B (Doctor and medical insurance) | Sentara Medicare (Medicare Advantage) | Original Medicare |
| Part D (Prescription drug coverage) | Sentara Medicare (Medicare Advantage) | Original Medicare |
| More predictable out-of-pocket costs | Sentara Medicare (Medicare Advantage) | Original Medicare |
| Dental and vision benefits | Sentara Medicare (Medicare Advantage) | Original Medicare |
| Fitness and wellness programs | Sentara Medicare (Medicare Advantage) | Original Medicare |
| Virtual doctor appointments | Sentara Medicare (Medicare Advantage) | Original Medicare |
| Sentara Medicare (Medicare Advantage) | Original Medicare |
Medicare Basics
Learning about the basics of Medicare now will help you make important decisions later. You can look forward to retirement with confidence by learning about your best Medicare options.Are you eligible for Medicare?
Learn about Medicare eligibility requirements and see if you qualify for Medicare Advantage or special needs plans.
Medicare enrollment periods
We make enrolling easy. Learn what times of the year you can enroll in Medicare.Receive help with prescription drug costs
People with limited resources and income may qualify for Extra Help to pay for their prescription drug costs. Extra Help is referred to as a low income subsidy (LIS) and helps pay for a part of your Part D monthly premium, annual deductible, and copayments.Frequently asked questions
Get answers to common questions about Medicare Advantage and understand your Sentara Medicare plan options.Caregiver support
Learn how Sentara Medicare can provide caregiver support to you and your loved one at this time in life.