Medicare Advantage plans can seem like a great all-in-one solution, but it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for. When you join a Medicare Advantage plan, you are replacing Original Medicare and signing over your Part A and B benefits to a private insurance company. That means you must follow their rules, not Medicare’s. These plans often have ZIP code-based provider networks, which can limit your access to doctors and hospitals—especially if you travel or move. They also typically require prior authorizations for many tests, procedures, and even specialist visits, which can delay care. Plus, while the monthly premiums may be low, out-of-pocket costs can add up quickly, with maximum limits reaching several thousand dollars each year. Lastly, keep in mind that you can only enroll or switch plans during specific times of the year, so your ability to change plans is restricted. It’s critical to weigh all these factors before deciding if Medicare Advantage is the right fit for you.