Understanding Healthfirst's Medicare Advantage Plan: Key Points to Consider
In the bustling state of New York, residents aged 65 and above have a variety of Medicare Advantage options to choose from, thanks to Healthfirst. This nonprofit insurance company offers several types of Medicare Advantage plans, each with its unique features, benefits, and costs.
Healthfirst's Medicare Advantage plans include the Signature (PPO), Signature (HMO), 65 Plus Plan (HMO), Increased Benefits Plan (HMO), Life Improvement Plan (HMO D-SNP), CompleteCare (HMO D-SNP), and Connection Plan (HMO D-SNP).
The Signature (PPO) plan offers flexibility, allowing members to see both in-network and some out-of-network providers. It comes with additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, and the SilverSneakers fitness program. Premiums for the Signature (PPO) plan vary by region, and out-of-pocket costs may be higher for out-of-network services.
On the other hand, the Signature (HMO) plan restricts care to network providers, except in emergencies. It offers lower copays within the network, an out-of-pocket maximum, and no coverage out-of-network except in emergencies. Premiums for the Signature (HMO) plan are typically lower than the PPO.
The 65 Plus Plan (HMO) is designed for those aged 65 and above. It includes Part D drug coverage, plus enhanced benefits such as dental and vision services. Premiums for this plan are low to moderate, and out-of-pocket costs are defined.
The Increased Benefits Plan (HMO) offers extra benefits beyond basic Medicare Advantage, including higher allowances for over-the-counter (OTC) products, more dental or vision coverage. Premiums for this plan range from $0 to $36.10, depending on the Extra Help level, and out-of-pocket costs are similar to the 65 Plus Plan.
The Life Improvement Plan (HMO D-SNP) is designed for individuals eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. It includes comprehensive care coordination, extra benefits like transportation, and dental services. Premiums for this plan are usually $0 or very low, and out-of-pocket costs are minimized due to Medicaid coordination.
The CompleteCare (HMO D-SNP) plan offers benefits specific to people with long-term care needs, including a care management team and personal care services to assist in coordinating a person's care. Like the Life Improvement Plan, it also offers $0 premium, lower copays, and a low out-of-pocket maximum.
Lastly, the Connection Plan (HMO D-SNP) is another dual eligible plan focused on care management and supportive services. It covers prescriptions, dental, vision, and hearing, and offers very low copays and out-of-pocket costs.
All Healthfirst plans provide at least the core Medicare Part A & B benefits, plus prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D). They also include extra perks like SilverSneakers fitness, telehealth, and OTC allowances.
For the most precise information, including premium amounts, copay details, exact out-of-pocket maximums, and plan availability by ZIP code for 2025, contacting Healthfirst directly or reviewing their official Medicare Advantage plan pamphlets and the CMS Medicare Plan Finder is recommended.
With more than 40,000 in-network providers and close to 80 hospitals participating in its health plans, Healthfirst is a reliable choice for New Yorkers seeking Medicare Advantage plans. The company currently has over 2 million members.
[1] Healthfirst official website: www.healthfirst.org [2] CMS Medicare Plan Finder: www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan [3] Contact Healthfirst: www.healthfirst.org/contact-us
- In New York, health organizations like Healthfirst collaborate with science to develop health-and-wellness programs, offering Medicare Advantage plans that cater to the unique needs of residents aged 65 and above.
- Healthfirst's partnerships with various healthproviders enable seniors to access necessary healthinsurance plans, such as the Signature (PPO) and Signature (HMO), which provide extra benefits like dental, vision, and fitness programs.
- For a comprehensive list of Medicare Advantage plans, benefits, premiums, and in-network providers, residents can refer to the CMS Medicare Plan Finder or visit the official website of healthorganizations like Healthfirst.
