Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is a type of Medicare health plan offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. It provides all the coverage of Original Medicare Parts A (hospital insurance) and B (medical insurance), and often includes additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage (Part D), dental care, vision care, hearing care, fitness programs, and more. These plans also typically cap out-of-pocket expenses, providing financial protection beyond Original Medicare.
Key Features of Medicare Part C:
- Combines Medicare Part A and Part B coverage.
- Many plans include Medicare Part D for prescription drugs.
- Provides extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs.
- Has out-of-pocket spending limits for covered services.
- Offered by private insurance companies contracted with Medicare.
- May require use of a network of doctors and hospitals.
- Enrollment periods include the Initial Enrollment Period and the Annual Enrollment Period from October 15 to December 7.
Medicare Advantage plans are an alternative to Original Medicare for individuals needing broader coverage and extra benefits beyond hospital and medical insurance.
