On December 24, 2021, we shared an important article breaking down the difference between MLTC (Managed Long-Term Care) and the PACE program for dual-eligible beneficiaries. It helped many families understand the complexities of long-term care delivery in New York.
Today, we’re revisiting this conversation—not to talk about PACE—but to highlight a powerful, increasingly popular plan type that offers more convenience, richer benefits, and unmatched flexibility: the Medicare Advantage Plus (MAP) plan.
If you’re currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan with a separate MLTC, or helping a loved one manage care through multiple systems, this guide will show you how MAP plans streamline coverage under one umbrella—and why 2025 is the year to make the switch.
What Is a MAP Plan?
MAP (Medicare Advantage Plus) is an integrated plan that combines:
- Medicare Part A (Hospital)
- Medicare Part B (Medical)
- Medicare Part D (Drugs)
- Medicaid long-term care (MLTC-level services like CDPAP, home health aides, and adult day care)
Everything is managed under one card, one plan, and one care team—no juggling separate plans, no confusion about benefits, and no care coordination headaches.
MAP vs. Medicare Advantage + MLTC: Key Differences
If you’re currently in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan and also enrolled in a standalone MLTC, you’re technically covered—but you’re missing out on integration, coordination, and potentially thousands of dollars in extra benefits.
Here’s how the two stack up:
MAP vs MA+MLTC Comparison Chart – 2025
| Feature | MAP Plan (Integrated) | MA Plan + MLTC (Separate) |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage Model | ✅ All-in-one: Medicare + Medicaid + LTC | ❌ Two separate entities |
| Care Coordination | ✅ One unified care team | ⚠️ Different case managers per plan |
| OTC Allowance | 💰 Robust: $150–$300/month typical | 💰 Lower or absent in MLTC |
| Dental, Vision, Hearing | ✅ Full benefits through MAP network | ✅ Often included via MA plan only |
| Transportation (Medical + Social) | ✅ Generous mileage or unlimited rides | ⚠️ Limited or varies by plan |
| CDPAP/Home Care | ✅ Fully included & managed internally | ✅ Covered, but via separate MLTC system |
| Provider Access | ✅ One card, shared info across systems | ❌ Must inform/coordinate with two plans |
| Switching Plans | ✅ Switch MAP plans any month of the year | ❌ Must wait for SEP or AEP to change MA |
Enrollment Periods: MAP = More Flexibility
In 2025, CMS removed the monthly enrollment option for many duals. You can no longer change your Medicare Advantage plan or MLTC every month unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
Election Period Comparison
| Plan Type | When You Can Enroll/Switch in 2025 |
| MA Plan + MLTC (Separate) | AEP (Oct 15–Dec 7) or SEP only |
| MAP Plan | ✅ Any month of the year—no SEP needed |
With a MAP plan, you’re never locked in. You can change plans monthly, respond to new diagnoses, or seek better benefits at any time.
Why More Dual-Eligible New Yorkers Are Choosing MAP in 2025
- ✅ Everything under one umbrella: No more juggling MLTC and MA plans
- 💰 Stronger OTC benefits: Many MAP plans offer double or triple the allowance
- ✅ Simplified care coordination: One case manager, one team, one number to call
- ✅ Enhanced transportation and social support services
- ✅ Switch plans at any time—no need for SEP or waiting until AEP
If you’re in a Medicare Advantage plan with a separate MLTC and feel like you’re managing a system instead of receiving care—it may be time to get a MAP over it.
Need Help Transitioning to a MAP Plan?
Our team is here to help you compare MAP plans based on:
- Benefit levels (OTC, dental, transportation)
- Home care/CDPAP support
- Provider access in your area
📞 Call our trusted partner, Affordable Care Agents at 718-971-2724
🛠️ Or visit AffordableCareAgents.com to connect with one of our 100+ licensed Medicare Advisors in NYC.
Article by the team at MedicareHealthAdvisor.nyc — Your Trusted Resource for Medicare Guidance in New York
CMS Disclaimer:
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048) to get information on all of your options.
Add Comment