After receiving statewide complaints from Medicare beneficiaries about Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, GeorgiaCares is encouraging Georgians to use caution, make informed healthcare decisions, and use the resources of GeorgiaCares. Beneficiaries are complaining that insurance agents are not making them fully aware of MA benefits and are not informing them that enrollment may require changing doctors, specialists or hospitals.

They are also being enrolled without consent. Medicare does not go door-to-door and insurance agents cannot solicit business without making an appointment, so GeorgiaCares is encouraging beneficiaries to request all information be sent to them in writing to review before making a final decision to enroll in a MA or other healthcare plan.

Two very important things to consider are: Does your doctor accept the MA plan? What are you currently paying for healthcare versus what you will be paying in a MA plan?

"Although legitimate Medicare Advantage plans can be of benefit to some, there is the potential for fraud. We encourage beneficiaries to be cautious when approached about changing or enrolling into healthcare plans," said Maria Greene, Director of Division of Aging Services (DAS).

The GeorgiaCares, which is administered through the Georgia Department of Human Resources/DAS, provides community education, counseling and referrals relating to Medicare and Medicaid, prescription assistance and healthcare error, fraud and abuse.

If beneficiaries choose to enroll in a MA plan, they should be aware that they have the same rights and protections offered by Medicare; will receive the same services as Original Medicare; may receive extra benefits in addition to what Original Medicare covers (this may include dental, hearing and vision care); will still pay the Medicare Part B premium, but directly to the MA plan; are responsible for any premium the MA plan may charge; and may be responsible for other costs associated with receiving healthcare services.

To report a MA complaint, call GeorgiaCares at 1-800-669-8387.