Part C (Also called Medicare Advantage) replaces the coverage of Original Medicare. Individuals who enroll in a Part C plan will no longer receive their benefits directly from the federal government, but from a private insurance company instead. These companies have been approved by the Medicare program to offer Part C plans. Part C plans must contain at least as much coverage as Parts A and B offered. Most of them offer additional coverage.

There are different types of Part C plans, which is a very important thing to understand. Some plans provide coverage outside of the plan’s network while others do not. This is an important differentiating factor as it could cost individuals much more if they do not receive care from an in-network provider. Even if the plan allows for coverage outside of the network, it is at a lesser rate and the member will still pay more out-of-pocket.

Medicare Part C Plans are usually $0 monthly premium, but you could see plans with a monthly premium around $25, $50, or even over $100 per month. Location plays a large role in determining cost, as well as which plan types are available to you. In some zip codes, no part C plans are available

What is Part C