Medicare Advantage - Part C

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, offers the integration of Medicare Part A and Part B coverage with additional medical benefits that are not covered by Original Medicare. Many Medicare Advantage plans also include Part D drug benefits. These plans are offered through private health insurers and may include benefits such as routine eye and dental care, hearing aids and eyewear, wellness programs, and discount programs for services and products like acupuncture.

By enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can still receive all the entitlements and privileges of Original Medicare, but you are choosing to assign the administration of your Medicare benefits to a private insurer. The federal Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services oversees the private health insurers to manage benefits for you if you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. When you enroll, your Original Medicare benefits are applied to your Medicare Advantage plan.

To be eligible for a Medicare Advantage plan, you must reside in the United States and live in the plan service area. Additionally, you must be entitled to Medicare Part A, have enrolled in Medicare Part B, and continue to pay your Part B premium. In most cases, individuals with end-stage renal disease are not eligible.