When it comes to enrolling in Original Medicare (Medicare Parts A and B), the amount of coverage you receive may be limited depending on your needs. Choosing to enroll in Medicare Part C coverage allows you to have more health coverage at a lower cost. Part C is known as the “all in one” Medicare plan that covers a wider variety of medical needs.
What is Medicare Part C?
Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is an alternative to Original Medicare. Medicare Part A covers in-patient hospital stays, nursing facility care, and hospice. While Part B covers doctors’ services, preventative services, and outpatient care. Medicare Part C covers everything, other than hospice, that Original Medicare covers and then some.
Why do Medicare beneficiaries consider it?
Beneficiaries covered under Medicare Part C often receive more health coverage than when enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A and B). Here are some of the added benefits to enrolling in Medicare Part C coverage:
- Vision
- Hearing
- Dental
- Wellness programs
- Prescription medication (Medicare Part D)
Another benefit of enrolling in this plan is that it can be more cost-effective than Original Medicare. Overall, the cost depends on several factors. These include: whether the plan pays any of your monthly Medicare Part B premium, the types of medical services you need and how often you need them, and whether you have Medicaid or receive financial assistance from the state. Ultimately, each plan will set its own costs.
How to enroll in a Medicare Part C coverage plan
Your enrollment period for Original Medicare begins three months before you turn 65 years old. It then goes through your birth month and then three months afterward. Once you are enrolled in Original Medicare, you are eligible to switch to Medicare Part C when the Annual Enrollment Period begins. This occurs every year from October 15th through December 7th. That is your window to switch Medicare plans. Since Medicare Part C coverage is an “all in one” plan, you do not need to be enrolled in another plan.
Medicare Part C Help
There are many different options when it comes to Medicare Part C coverage. Choosing the right plan can be overwhelming, since some plans have specific rules, networks, limitations, restrictions, etc. Working with a licensed Medicare agent can ensure you get the right coverage for your needs.
Need Assistance in Choosing a Medicare Part C Plan?
Speak with a qualified independent Medicare-focused insurance agent in your area about which plan is right for you. Call us at (714) 834-1322.