Medicare is a health insurance program in the United States mandated by law that provides health insurance coverage for Americans aged 65 and older and younger people with specific disabilities. The United States government administers the Medicare program, but it is not an entitlement program — only people who meet particular criteria are eligible for the program.

Medicare Advantage plans are a type of Medicare health plan available to people enrolled in Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans are approved by Medicare and operated by private companies. These companies receive a set amount from the federal government to provide health care services to Medicare beneficiaries. Medicare Advantage plans are allowed to have networks of doctors and health care providers that may not be part of the Medicare program. These plans are required to provide the same benefits as traditional Medicare and include prescription drug coverage. People with Medicare Advantage plans can also add extra benefits for an additional monthly premium, such as dental and vision coverage.