What percentage of average coverage does Medicare extra provide compared to benchmark plans under the ACA?

Medicare Extra is designed to fill in gaps for Medicare beneficiaries, providing additional coverage reminiscent of certain benchmark plans established under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The correct answer, which states that Medicare Extra provides an average coverage level of 80%, aligns with the framework of the ACA, where benchmark plans typically cover around 80% of health care costs. This percentage ensures that enrollees still have some cost-sharing responsibilities, but they are relieved of significant out-of-pocket expenses. This level of coverage strikes a balance between offering substantial support for health care costs while encouraging participants to utilize preventive services and maintain health, as they still engage in cost management for various services.

Other percentages, such as 60%, 70%, or 90%, do not accurately reflect the comparison to benchmark plans within the ACA context, which is primarily built around the 80% coverage model. These alternatives might suggest inadequate or excessive coverage that doesn’t correspond with the standardized metrics used in the evaluation of Medicare's supplemental offerings.