Plan Benefits

Back To FAQs

How do I compare the Banner Medicare Advantage plan options with the Original Medicare Plan? 

For each Banner Medicare Advantage plan, a Summary of Benefits, which enables you to easily compare what the Banner Medicare Advantage plan covers for each benefit. In summary, Banner Medicare Advantage members receive all the benefits offered through the Original Medicare Plan plus additional benefits.

If I choose a Banner Medicare Advantage plan during annual enrollment, can I switch to a different Banner Medicare Advantage plan during the year? 

You are limited in when and how often you can join, change or leave a Medicare Advantage Plan (also known as a Medicare private health plan) or prescription drug plan (Part D). 

  • You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan during the initial period when you first qualify for Medicare.
  • You can switch from your Medicare Advantage Plan to another MA Plan, or to Original Medicare with or without a Part D plan, during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP). The MA OEP occurs each year from January 1 through March 31. You can only use this period if you have a Medicare Advantage Plan.
  • You can change your health coverage and add, drop, or change your drug coverage during Fall Open Enrollment. Fall Open Enrollment occurs each year from October 15 through December 7.

Outside of the above three periods, you can only change your health and/or drug coverage if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). 

Can I get care during a disaster? 

If the Governor of your state, the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, or the President of the United States declares a state of disaster or emergency in your geographic area, you are still entitled to care from your plan. Please see your Evidence of Coverage or call our Customer Care Center for more information.