Medicare Advantage Plans in Cherokee County, AL:
Your Complete 2025 Guide
Medicare Advantage Plans in Cherokee County, AL:
Your Complete 2025 Guide
With 30 Medicare Advantage plans available in Cherokee County, Alabama for 2025, you can choose from a variety of options that go beyond Original Medicare. Many plans also include valuable extras like vision, dental, and wellness benefits.
Browse the plans below, or get personalized help by calling 877-388-0596 (TTY 711) to speak with a licensed HealthCompare agent.
Types of Medicare Advantage Plans in Cherokee County, AL
With 30 Medicare Advantage plans available in Cherokee County for 2025, you’ll have plenty of options to meet your needs. There are 4 5-star plans available that qualify for the 5-star special enrollment period. Your choices include:
- Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plans: These plans (15 available) offer flexibility with out-of-network care at a higher cost. The average premium for these plans is $20.63.
- Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Plans: These plans (11 available) require in-network care and generally have lower costs. The average premium for these plans is $17.73.
- HMO Point-of-Service (HMO-POS) Plans: These plans (3 available) blend HMO and PPO features, allowing some out-of-network care. The average premium for these plans is $13.00.
- Special Needs Plans (SNP): These are highly specialized Medicare Advantage plans for individuals with special healthcare needs. We organize this plans here: Cherokee County, AL Medicare Special Needs Plans.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Medicare Advantage Plans
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans offer flexibility by allowing you to see both in-network and out-of-network providers. These plans often have higher costs for out-of-network care but provide more options for those who want greater freedom in choosing their healthcare providers.
Medicare Advantage PPO Plan Options
Plan Name | Rating | Premium | MOOP | Rx Ded. |
---|---|---|---|---|
Humana USAA Honor | $0 | $3,400 | N/A | |
Humana Value Plus H5216-179 | $41 | $3,000 | $545 | |
HumanaChoice H5216-269 | $0 | $5,900 | $150 | |
HumanaChoice H5216-368 | $7 | $6,700 | $150 | |
Aetna Medicare Eagle | $0 | $5,500 | N/A | |
Aetna Medicare Freedom | $0 | $5,900 | $0 | |
Aetna Medicare Value Plus | $27 | $7,900 | $300 | |
Blue Advantage Complete | $0 | $5,100 | $0 | |
Blue Advantage Premier | $159 | $3,400 | $0 | |
HumanaChoice R7315-001 | $0 | $5,900 | N/A | |
HumanaChoice R7315-002 | $75 | $6,700 | $545 | |
Cigna True Choice Access Medicare | $0 | $5,600 | $0 | |
Cigna True Choice Savings Medicare | $0 | $5,900 | $0 | |
Wellcare Giveback Open | $0 | $7,350 | $545 | |
Wellcare No Premium Open | $0 | $5,500 | $0 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a PPO Plan
- Out-of-Network Costs: PPO plans allow you to see out-of-network providers, but this flexibility often comes with higher costs. Be sure to evaluate how much extra you'll need to pay if you prefer to see providers outside of the plan's network.
- Provider Network: Make sure your preferred doctors and specialists are in the plan's network to keep your costs lower. If you value the ability to choose providers freely, confirm the plan's network coverage meets your needs.
- Premiums and Out-of-Pocket Maximums: Compare the monthly premiums and out-of-pocket maximums across plans. Higher premiums might offer more coverage, but consider whether the additional benefits justify the cost for your situation.
- Additional Benefits: Many PPO plans offer extras like dental, vision, and wellness programs. Assess which additional benefits matter most to you and how they align with your healthcare needs.
Ready to explore your Medicare Advantage options further? Speak with a licensed HealthCompare agent today at 1-877-388-0596 (TTY 711).
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Medicare Advantage Plans
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans offer lower costs in exchange for using in-network providers. These plans are a great choice for those who are comfortable with a more restricted network and want to keep their healthcare expenses predictable and affordable.
Medicare Advantage HMO Plan Options
Plan Name | Rating | Premium | MOOP | Rx Ded. |
---|---|---|---|---|
VIVA Medicare Plus | $0 | $5,400 | $0 | |
VIVA Medicare Premier | $96 | $4,500 | $0 | |
VIVA Medicare Prime | $46 | $5,400 | $0 | |
VIVA Medicare Select | $0 | $4,500 | N/A | |
Cigna Courage Medicare | $0 | $5,400 | N/A | |
Cigna Preferred AL Medicare | $0 | $8,850 | $195 | |
Cigna Preferred Medicare | $0 | $4,900 | $0 | |
Cigna Preferred Plus Medicare | $32 | $4,500 | $0 | |
Humana Gold Plus H5619-089 | $0 | $5,900 | $0 | |
Wellcare Assist | $21 | $4,500 | $545 | |
Wellcare No Premium | $0 | $4,500 | $0 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing an HMO Plan
- In-Network Care: HMO plans generally require you to use in-network providers for all non-emergency care. Be sure to verify that your preferred doctors, specialists, and hospitals are in the plan’s network before enrolling.
- Primary Care Referrals: Many HMO plans require you to get a referral from your primary care doctor before seeing a specialist. Make sure you’re comfortable with this system of care coordination.
- Lower Costs: HMO plans typically offer lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs compared to other plan types, making them an attractive option for those who prioritize cost savings.
- Additional Benefits: Some HMO plans include extra benefits like dental, vision, and wellness programs. Consider which additional benefits are most important to you when comparing plans.
Ready to explore your Medicare Advantage options further? Speak with a licensed HealthCompare agent today at 1-877-388-0596 (TTY 711).
HMO Point-of-Service (HMO-POS) Medicare Advantage Plans
HMO Point-of-Service (HMO-POS) plans offer a blend of HMO and PPO features. While these plans require in-network care for lower costs, they also allow you to seek care outside of the network at a higher expense. This balance makes HMO-POS plans a flexible option for those who want the best of both worlds.
Medicare Advantage HMO-POS Plan Options
Plan Name | Rating | Premium | MOOP | Rx Ded. |
---|---|---|---|---|
AARP Medicare Advantage from UHC AL-0001 | $0 | $4,900 | $0 | |
AARP Medicare Advantage from UHC AL-0002 | $39 | $3,800 | $0 | |
AARP Medicare Advantage Patriot No Rx AL-MA01 | $0 | $5,500 | N/A |
Factors to Consider When Choosing an HMO-POS Plan
- Out-of-Network Costs: While HMO-POS plans allow you to see out-of-network providers, this flexibility comes at a higher cost. Be sure to evaluate how much more you'll need to pay for out-of-network care.
- In-Network vs. Out-of-Network Care: Compare the in-network and out-of-network options available under the plan. If you frequently seek care outside the network, consider whether the additional costs are worth the flexibility.
- Referral Requirements: Like traditional HMO plans, HMO-POS plans often require a referral from your primary care doctor to see specialists. Make sure you’re comfortable with this requirement.
- Additional Benefits: Many HMO-POS plans offer extra benefits such as dental, vision, and wellness programs. Consider which additional benefits are important to you when comparing plans.
Ready to explore your Medicare Advantage options further? Speak with a licensed HealthCompare agent today at 1-877-388-0596 (TTY 711).
How and When to Enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan
Understanding the Medicare Advantage enrollment periods in Cherokee County is essential, whether you're new to Medicare or looking to change your current plan. Knowing when to enroll ensures that you get the coverage that’s right for you without missing important deadlines.
When to Enroll
- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Enroll in Medicare during this period, which starts three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after. This is your first opportunity to select a Medicare Advantage plan. Learn more
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP): From January 1 to March 31, you can switch your Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare if your current plan no longer suits you. Learn more
- Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): Occurring annually from October 15 to December 7, this period allows you to adjust your Medicare coverage for the upcoming year. Learn more
- Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs): If certain life events, such as moving or losing coverage, apply to you, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to make changes to your plan. Learn more
How to Enroll
- Consult a Licensed Agent: Get personalized guidance by speaking with a licensed HealthCompare agent at 1-877-388-0596 (TTY 711).
- Contact the Plan Provider Directly: Visit the plan provider’s website or call their customer service team to start the enrollment process.
- Use Medicare.gov: Compare plans and enroll online through the official Medicare website at Medicare.gov.
Understanding Medicare Advantage: Frequently Asked Questions
What types of Medicare Advantage plans are available?
Medicare Advantage plans come in different types, including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS), and Special Needs Plans (SNPs). Each plan type offers different levels of flexibility in choosing healthcare providers and services.
Do Medicare Advantage plans cover prescription drugs?
Many Medicare Advantage plans, known as Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) plans, include prescription drug coverage. These plans bundle Medicare Parts A, B, and D into one plan. However, not all Medicare Advantage plans include drug coverage, so it's important to check before enrolling.
Are there any additional costs with Medicare Advantage plans?
While Medicare Advantage plans often have lower premiums than Original Medicare, you may still have out-of-pocket costs such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. The costs can vary depending on the specific plan and services you use.
Key Enrollment Questions for Medicare Advantage Plans
When can I enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan?
You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which starts three months before your 65th birthday and lasts three months after. You can also enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7, or during a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you qualify due to certain life events.
Can I change my Medicare Advantage plan after enrolling?
Yes, you can change your Medicare Advantage plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) or the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP). Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) may also allow plan changes if you qualify based on specific life events.
What happens if I miss my enrollment period?
If you miss your enrollment period, you may have to wait until the next Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) to make changes to your Medicare Advantage plan. In some cases, Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) may allow you to enroll or make changes outside the standard enrollment windows.
Plan Availability
The MA and MAPD plans on this page are available to people on Medicare enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B living in Cedar Bluff, Centre, Gaylesville, Leesburg, and all other areas of Cherokee County, Alabama.
Plans Offered for Enrollment through Medicare.org
Medicare Advantage and Part D plans and benefits offered by the following carriers: Aetna Medicare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aspire Health Plan, Dean Health Plan, Devoted Health, GlobalHealth, Health Care Service Corporation, Cigna Healthcare, Humana, Molina Healthcare, Mutual of Omaha, Premera Blue Cross, Medica Central Health Plan, SCAN Health Plan, Scott and White Health Plan now part of Baylor Scott & White Health, UnitedHealthcare(R), and Wellcare.
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