Medicare 101: What is Medicare Advantage?

Your beginner’s guide to Part C.

Medicare Part C

(Medicare Advantage)

What is it?

Unlike Medicare Parts A and B (“Original Medicare”), which are provided through federal and state government agencies, Medicare Part C is a private health insurance plan offered by insurance companies. 

By law, all Medicare Part C plans have to provide at least as much coverage as Original Medicare, but most private insurance companies offer extra health and wellness benefits in addition to the standard coverage. 

What does it cover?

Everything the Medicare Parts A and B covers plus extras, which may include:

  • Prescription drugs (Medicare Part D)
  • Vision care
  • Dental care
  • Heart attack or cancer treatment
  • Long-term care
  • Hospital indemnity
  • Health and wellness programs
  • Gym memberships

Who is eligible?

To enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you must first be eligible for both Medicare Part A and Part B. Typically this means you need to be at least 65 years old or have a Medicare-covered disability or disease. 

In addition, since Medicare Part C plans are offered through private insurance companies, this usually means you will have to meet your insurance provider’s enrollment requirements, too. 

Remember: if you need extra help deciding which plan you should enroll in, you can always talk to a licensed Medicare agent for free, with no commitment required on your part. Just call 833-716-0673 today for help.

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