Get to know the basics
Download our Starter Guide for a clear, simple introduction to Medicare.
Employer Plan or Medicare Advantage? Making the Right Call After 65
Last Updated: June 2025 Print This Article
Working past 65? Your employer plan may not be your best option anymore. While it might seem like the simplest choice to delay Medicare and keep your current coverage, you could be missing out on all the benefits of a Medicare Advantage plan.
Potential Cost Savings
Employer health plans often have high premiums, deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Advantage plans, many with $0 premiums, could lower your costs to just your Part B premium and the care you use. Many Medicare Advantage plans also have $0 copays for primary care visits, lab tests, generic prescriptions and other important services. And, depending on the plan you choose, deductibles could end up being a thing of the past, as Medicare Advantage plans often don’t require them.
Comprehensive Benefits
Unlike most employer options, Medicare Advantage often includes extras like dental, vision, hearing, fitness, over-the-counter coverage and more—all in the same plan, for no additional premium. Some plans even provide a preloaded Flexible Benefits Card that allows you to spend your benefit dollars as you see fit.
Financial Security
If you’re used to a plan with a high maximum out-of-pocket amount (the most that you’re required to pay for healthcare in a given plan year), a Medicare Advantage plan could provide some relief. When you enroll in Medicare Parts A and B, you’re able to shop around for a plan that reduces your costs and better meets your needs. Medicare Advantage plans provide maximum out-of-pocket protection that may be lower than what you have with your employer coverage, which can help you feel more secure as you near retirement.
Provider Flexibility
With an employer plan, your network may be limited to specific providers, or you may be used to the open network of a PPO plan. Many Medicare Advantage companies offer HMO plans with a set network, and/or PPO plans, which offer the freedom to see the provider of your choice.
Delaying retirement doesn’t mean you have to delay better healthcare. Take a look at your options so you can get the plan you deserve.
Want to learn more about what a Medicare Advantage plan can offer you?
Essence Healthcare works with Medicare to offer a variety of plan options. If you have questions or are curious about Essence plans, call 1-866-536-1052 (TTY: 711) to speak with a licensed Essence Healthcare advisor.†
ABOUT ESSENCE
Essence has been proudly serving the Medicare community for more than 20 years. Founded by doctors, we’re all about working closely with you and your health team to provide healthcare the way it should be—with better benefits, more savings and the ability to catch health issues before they start.
Read next:
