Are you coming up to your 65th birthday? If so, then you know it’s about time to enroll in Medicare. If you haven’t done your research, it’s time to start!
There are several parts to Medicare, including Part A, Part B, and Part D. There’s also Medicare Part C, most commonly called Medicare Advantage. The latest stats reveal over 42% of the Medicare population has a Medicare Advantage plan.
All these Medicare plans got your head spinning? Keep reading, and we’ll help you sort it out and tell you what Medicare Part C plans cover.
The Original Medicare
In 1965, amendments to the Social Security Program established Medicare. The original Medicare has two major plans:
- Part A which is hospital insurance
- Part B which is which is medical insurance
There’s also a separate Medicare drug plan, Part D, that you can join. Federal and state laws govern Medicare and the services and products covered.
Using original Medicare, you can see any doctor you choose as long as she participates in Medicare. You don’t need to choose a primary care doctor, and you don’t need referrals to see a specialist.
You may be asking yourself, “Why do I need Medicare Part C?” Keep reading for the answer.
Medicare Part C – Medicare Advantage
Medicare Part C coverage is a plan that provides additional coverage beyond the Part A and Part B coverage. You purchase Medicare Part C plans through private health insurance companies.
What does Medicare Part C cover? Part C plans are much like regular health insurance plans but they also offer dental, vision, and other benefits that aren’t in the Original Medicare Part A and Part B Plans.
Having a Part C plan saves you a lot of money if you need regular medical care.
Some Part C plans also include Part D (prescription drug coverage). A little over 26 million people have a Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plan.
Medicare Part C Eligibility
You’re eligible for a Medicare Part C plan if you’re 65, are a US citizen, and you’re enrolled in Original Medicare Parts A and B. You also must live in a part of the country where there are Part C plans available during your enrollment or application period.
You’re not eligible for Part C Medicare if you have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease). If you have ALS, you’ll automatically get Medicare Parts A and B when you get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
If you have end-stage renal disease (ESRD), you’re not eligible for Medicare Part C but you do qualify for a Special Needs Plan.
Are You Ready for a Medicare Part C Plan?
The Medicare plan system is confusing for a lot of people. There are pros and cons to both the Original Medicare Plan and Medicare Part C plans.
If you need help figuring out Medicare, we’re here to help. Please contact us today for more information, questions, or concerns about choosing a Medicare Plan.