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).
