Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans: What Every Senior Should Know
Our Team
7/11/2025
As we age, choosing the right health insurance becomes one of the most important decisions we make—especially when faced with a serious diagnosis like cancer. Medicare Advantage (also known as Medicare Part C) is a popular choice for many seniors because of its low—or even zero—monthly premiums and added benefits. But at Lifefirst Imaging and Oncology, we want our patients and community to be fully informed about what these plans may not tell you upfront—especially when it comes to the costs of cancer treatment.
The Appeal of Medicare Advantage Plans
Many Medicare Advantage plans advertise no-cost monthly premiums, $0 physician visit co-pays, and perks like dental, vision, and gym memberships. These benefits sound great, and for many routine healthcare needs, they can work well. However, when a serious illness arises—like cancer—the hidden costs can come as a shock.
What You Need to Know About Treatment Costs
Medicare Advantage plans often require significant co-pays and co-insurance for specialized treatments such as:
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Radiation therapy
- Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
- Diagnostic Imaging
It's not uncommon for these plans to only cover 80% of the cost, leaving the patient responsible for the remaining 20%. While 20% might not seem like much on paper, for cancer treatments that can cost tens of thousands of dollars, this "small percentage" can quickly become financially devastating.
We’ve seen patients walk into our center thinking they are fully covered, only to learn they are responsible for thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs—often during one of the most vulnerable times of their lives.
Be Proactive and Get Written Documentation
Before signing up for or renewing any Medicare Advantage plan, we strongly encourage you to:
Ask for written documentation of your co-pays and co-insurance for:
- Chemotherapy drugs (oral and IV)
- Radiation therapy
- Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
- Diagnostic Imaging
Request a breakdown of your annual deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.
Call the plan directly and ask: "If I were diagnosed with cancer and needed treatment, what would I pay?"
The Cheaper Plan May Cost More in the Long Run
We understand the appeal of low-cost plans—especially on a fixed income. But please remember: sometimes the cheaper plan ends up costing far more when serious medical needs arise.
You deserve peace of mind and clarity when it comes to your healthcare. If you're considering a Medicare Advantage plan—or already enrolled in one—take the time to ask the right questions, and don’t hesitate to ask your providers or local Medicare counselors for help.
At Lifefirst Imaging and Oncology, we are here to support our patients—not just through treatment, but in navigating the often-confusing world of insurance.
Your health is your most valuable asset. Make sure your insurance is truly there for you when you need it most.
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