Coalition for Medicare Choices: Working Together to Save Medicare Advantage

What You Should Know

Medicare Advantage in Your State | About Us | What is a Medicare Advantage Health Plan? | Who are Medicare Advantage Beneficiaries? | History of Medicare Advantage

History of Medicare Advantage

The Balanced Budget Act of 1997 gave Medicare beneficiaries the option of receiving their benefits through private health plans, a program called "Medicare+Choice" or "Part C." Upon passage of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003, the program became known as Medicare Advantage, and prescription drug coverage was added.

Timeline of Medicare Key Legislation and Reform
1960PL 86-778 Social Security Amendments of 1960
1965PL 89-97 Social Security Amendments of 1965
1988PL 100-360 Medicare Catastrophic Coverage Act of 1988
1997PL 105-33 Balanced Budget Act of 1997
2003PL 108-173 Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act

For more information on the history of Medicare, please visit Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

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Facts About Medicare Advantage
  • More than 10 million American seniors depend on their Medicare Advantage plans.
  • Seniors in Medicare Advantage are receiving better quality care. Learn more.
  • Medicare Advantage beneficiaries make up more than 20% of total Medicare enrollment and as much as 40% in some states. See State Facts.
  • Medicare Advantage can significantly reduce seniors' out-of-pocket costs, up to $4,000 annually.
  • Often Medicare Advantage plans include benefits not covered under regular Medicare, such as dental care, preventive care and vision care.

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