So you decided to go with a Medicare Advantage plan. Your Medicare Advantage plan replaces your original Medicare. You are no longer part of the federal Medicare program. Instead, you are part of a private health plan that administers your inpatient (part A)  and outpatient (part B) benefits. These health plans are reimbursed per participant from the federal government to administer your medical care.

When going to a medical provider, you need to specify which medicare advantage plan you are on to ensure the doctor participates with your plan. Do not give your red white and blue Medicare card as you are no longer part of Original Medicare. Rather, give your Medicare Advantage card.

Understandably you may think that you can throw your Medicare card away.  However, it is advisable to keep your Original Medicare card in a safe place. Your Medicare care contains a unique member ID. This ID is necessary if you ever decide to switch back to original Medicare.

If you have already lost or thrown away your Medicare card, you can request a new one by contacting the Social Security Administration.

Are you contemplating a switch to Medicare Advantage due to unaffordable rate increases? Check out this Article on Medigap Costs.