What is Medicare Part C?
Part C is made up of Medicare Advantage plans. They are health insurance plans offered by private companies approved by the Federal government but not regulated under Medicare. Part C will provide all of the services under Part A and B, and most include prescription drug coverage. Some plans offer vision, hearing, dental and other wellness programs at an additional cost.
Most plans will have a premium in addition to the Part B premium. Medicare pays a fixed amount for services to companies offering private insurance options. These companies must follow rules set forth by Medicare but they can charge different out-of-pocket costs and can have different rules for how services are provided. There are different types of private insurance options, including:
- Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)
- Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
- Private Fee-For-Service (PFFS)
- Medical Saving Account (MSA)
- Special Needs Plans (SNP)
Who is Eligible for Medicare Part C?
Medicare Part C eligibility is based on your membership in or eligibility for Medicare Parts A and B. Generally, if you have Medicare Parts A and B, you are eligible for Medicare Part C. However, you must live in the service area for the Medicare Advantage Plan that you�re considering and must not have End Stage Renal Disease (ERSD).