A simple guide: helping your parents select Medicare Advantage

Posted November 06, 2025 by Anupreet Kaur, M.D., FAAFP, Medical Director, Care Management and Population Health

As our parents age, navigating the complexities of healthcare decisions can be overwhelming—and, very important. One significant choice many people face as they near their 65th birthday is choosing the right Medicare Advantage plan. It’s a decision that can have a big impact on much needed or—even critical—medical care that can also greatly impact finances.

As their children, you can play a vital role in guiding them through this complex process. Ensuring they choose a plan well fitted to their needs and budget should be a top priority. Here’s how you can help.

Understanding Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B). It offers additional benefits, such as prescription drug coverage, preventive dental and vision plus health and wellness programs. These plans are provided by private insurance companies approved by Medicare, meaning coverage details can vary by provider and location.

Before diving into the selection process, ensure your parents understand the key differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Help them grasp the concept of provider networks, coverage options and potential out-of-pocket costs. Knowledge is power and equipping them with basic understanding prevents confusion later on.

Assessing Healthcare Needs

The right Medicare Advantage plan depends largely on individual health needs. Here’s how you can help assess your parents’ healthcare requirements:

• Review medical conditions: Identify chronic illnesses or ongoing treatments. Certain plans cater better to individuals with specific health conditions.
• Check preferred providers: If your parents have preferred providers or specialists, ensure the plan they choose includes them in their network.
• Evaluate prescription drug coverage: Examine their current medications to determine if the plan includes necessary prescriptions.
• Consider additional benefits: Some plans offer perks such as dental, vision, hearing aids or wellness programs. If these services matter to your parents, prioritize plans that include them.

Comparing Costs

Medicare Advantage plans come with different financial structures. Look beyond the monthly premium and analyze all potential expenses:

• Premiums: Some plans have low or $0 monthly premiums but may charge higher copayments and deductibles.
• Out-of-pocket costs: Factor in deductibles, copays and coinsurance costs for provider visits, hospital stays and medications.
• Maximum out-of-pocket limit (MOOP): Ensure the plan has a reasonable cap to protect your parents from excessive medical bills.

Using Medicare’s “Plan Finder” tool or comparing options on insurance provider websites can clarify cost differences.

Helping with enrollment and paperwork

Once your parents decide on a plan, assist them with the enrollment process. Medicare Advantage enrollment periods include:

• Initial Enrollment Period: Let your parents know they can enroll up to three months before their 65th birthday, through their birthday, and up to three months after turning 65.
• Annual Enrollment Period (Oct. 15 - Dec. 7): When they can switch plans.
  Make sure they understand deadlines and submit the necessary documents on time.

Final Thoughts

Helping your parents choose a Medicare Advantage plan is an invaluable way to ensure they receive quality healthcare without financial strain. By educating them, comparing costs, reviewing coverage and offering emotional support, you empower them to make confident decisions about their future.

And you can always ask a SummaCare Medicare Advantage Advisor for help breaking down complex information or about SummaCare Medicare Advantage plan selection. We have seven comprehensive plans that include medical and supplemental coverage including preventive dental, preventive hearing and vision.

Your involvement can make a world of difference in their peace of mind and well-being. So take the time to research, discuss and guide them toward the right plan. After all, they’ve spent their lives taking care of you—now, it’s your turn to support them in making this essential decision.

SummaCare is an HMO and HMO-POS plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in SummaCare depends on contract renewal. H3660_SC2082_C 09162025

Author:
Anupreet Kaur, M.D., FAAFP, Medical Director, Care Management and Population Health