Seven Advantage myths that refuse to die.

Medicare Advantage inspires strong opinions and stronger marketing, which means myths in both directions. Seven of them deserve retirement; here are the facts that replace them.

Myth 1: Advantage plans are free

Fact: A $0 premium is real, but you still pay the $202.90 Part B premium in 2026, plus copays as you use care, up to the plan's out-of-pocket maximum. $0 describes the plan premium, not the plan.

Myth 2: Advantage means losing Medicare

Fact: You remain fully in the Medicare program with all its rights and protections. A private plan administers your benefits; it does not replace your status. Dislike it later and regular windows let you leave.

Myth 3: All the extras are basically unlimited dental and vision

Fact: Extras are allowances with limits, networks and waiting rules. A $1,500 dental allowance is genuinely useful and genuinely not comprehensive dental insurance. Read the benefit grid, not the billboard.

Myth 4: You can switch plans whenever you want

Fact: Changes happen in windows: AEP each fall (October 15 to December 7), the Advantage OEP each winter (January 1 to March 31) if you are already on a plan, and Special Enrollment Periods when life events qualify. Between windows, you hold what you have.

Myth 5: Advantage plans are all the same, so pick the biggest brand

Fact: Plans differ wildly by county in networks, drug tiers, maximums and extras. The same brand can be excellent in Palm Beach County and mediocre two counties away. Comparison is local or it is worthless.

Myth 6: If I get really sick, Advantage will abandon me

Fact: Plans cannot drop you for getting sick, and the out-of-pocket maximum is a real financial backstop Original Medicare lacks. The honest caveat lives elsewhere: managed care means networks and prior authorizations, which is a trade-off you should choose knowingly, not discover angrily.

Myth 7: Agents push Advantage because it is best

Fact: Some agencies only sell one or two carriers, and enthusiasm follows the contract. Independence is the antidote: with 11+ carriers on the desk, the recommendation can follow the client. Ask any agent one question: what would you show me if this carrier said no? The pause tells you everything.

Advantage plans are neither scam nor miracle. They are a managed-care trade with real strengths, real fine print and 100 percent local variance, which makes them exactly the kind of decision worth an honest free comparison.