Nashville-based HealthSpring has received government approval to offer a range of Medicare Advantage plans to more than 62,000 beneficiaries in Limestone and Madison counties.

Similar to existing coverage in Alabama, plans will include dental and vision coverage, options with no monthly premium and other expanded benefits not covered by original Medicare.

The current network includes all three hospitals in Limestone and Madison counties and 325 participating primary care physicians and specialists.

“We are very pleased to expand our service area to provide more Alabama seniors access to the high quality care they deserve,” said Bob Dawson, president of HealthSpring of Alabama in a press release. “We know those on Medicare will appreciate our extra benefits, cost savings and strong focus on prevention to help keep them active and healthy.”

HealthSpring’s model works with physicians to provide its members more access to care focused on prevention and total body wellness, the release said. As the largest health plan in the United States focused exclusively on Medicare Advantage, HealthSpring has developed an approach that bridges the gap faced by many Medicare beneficiaries.

“At HealthSpring, we are dedicated to our members and ensuring they receive the best medical care to serve their individual needs,” Dawson said. “We believe in supporting the patient-provider relationship and are looking forward to building collaborative partnerships with local physicians so that we can deliver the best possible healthcare to more valued Alabama members.”

Medicare beneficiaries in Madison and Limestone counties can enroll in HealthSpring 2012 plans during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, which begins Oct. 15 and ends Dec. 7.

For more information, visit www.healthspring.com.