Under names like “Patriot Plan,” private Medicare Advantage plans are courting veterans even as the VA covers most care.

Inpatient hospital: $295.* Dental allowance: Preventive services only. AARP Medicare Advantage Patriot No Rx KS-MA01 (PPO) Monthly premium: $0. Deductible: None. Out-of-pocket max: $4,900 in-network.

Or, you could sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan for added benefits on top of what original Medicare entails. You're also not stuck with the Medicare plan you choose for life. Each year during ...