What Everyone Should Know About Medicare Part C Before Picking A Plan

Medicare is our country’s health insurance program. The program helps with the cost of health care, but does not cover all medical expenses or the cost of long term care. It is split into different parts and can easily get confusing. Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage which is often referred to, are Medicare-approved private health insurance plans for individuals that are part of the Medicare plan already.

What sort of services are covered under Medicare Part C?

You will still continue to get the services covered in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) but in addition, you will also have cover for things like vision, dental and hearing and many also cover prescription drug coverage. These plans quite often are based on networks, which mean you may have to see certain doctors and go to certain hospitals in the plan’s network to get care.

Who is eligible for Medicare Part C?

Anyone who is eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A can pay for a Medicare Advantage plan. You have to live in the service area of the plan you want to join, and you must have opted in to Medicare Part B. If you have end-stage renal disease, you will not be able to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan.

How much does Medicare Part C cost?

Premiums vary quite vastly depending on the plan you choose and what is included in that plan. The average cost of a plan is approximately $32 per month, but they can also go up to as much as $200, so check what plans are available in your area and make sure it covers everything you need.