Medicare Advantage Plans are health plan options that are approved by Medicare but run by private companies. They are part of the Medicare Program, and sometimes called "Part C." When you join a Medicare Advantage Plan, you are still in Medicare. (see Medicare Part C) With Medicare Advantage Plans:

Part A is Hospital Insurance and covers cost associated with confinement in a hospital or skilled nursing facility. (see Medicare Part A)

Medicare started offering insurance coverage for prescription drugs through Medicare prescriptions drug plans and other health plan options. Medicare's prescription drug coverage will typically pay over half of your drug costs, for a monthly premium. (see Medicare Part D)