There are a large number of Medicare plans. Medicare Part A and Part B are considered to be the “original” ones and they offer great coverage of your basic medical and healthcare needs. However, there are some additional plans that you can opt for if you want to receive some extras.
One of the most sought-after plans is the Medicare Part C. This program is also known as Medicare Advantage Plans and you will find that a large number of private companies offer it, but they need to stick to the Medicare guidelines and rules.
Medicare Part C Coverage
Going for the Medicare Part C in 2024 may not be such a bad idea. First of all, you are still in Medicare as the Advantage program belongs to it and you will receive a large number of Medicare Part A and Part B benefits. It is safe to say that Medicare C is the combination of the first two plans, with some other benefits as well.
In addition, the costs of services can be lower in the original two plans. The hospital service that you get in Medicare Part A and the medical benefits you receive from Medicare Part B are all included in Medicare Part C. Furthermore, prescription medication from Medicare Part D also found its way to this plan, so you get the best from the three worlds.
Although the costs can be lower with Medicare Part C, you will need to see doctors that belong to a particular network, or you will need to visit selected hospitals that accept such insurance. Having said that, it is important to note that these networks are similar to Health Maintenance Organization or Preferred Provider Organization plans.
Payment
Just like with any other Medicare Plan, you have a monthly premium fee. The payment works the same way in a sense that you pay a certain amount each month, but how the money is distributed is what is different. Each month, Medicare pays an amount of that money to private health plans, no matter whether you are using the services or not.
Furthermore, you will most likely have to pay extra for some services, but again this depends on what you are using and where you get care. If you decide to get treatment in one of the facilities which is not included in the plan, you will need to cover all the costs.
Even though this sounds a bit harsh, there is a leeway here. Medicare Part C covers the emergency cases no matter where you receive treatment. This is something that you cannot influence, so if you find yourself outside the service area, you don’t need to burden yourself with finances in case of emergencies.
Conclusion
Medicare Part C goes well with Medicare Parts A and B and the pricing is a bit lower. The advantage plan focuses on private service plans, special needs and savings, which is why it is attractive to a large number of people. The fact that it takes some bullets from Plan D as well is just another bonus.
