Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is an alternative to traditional Medicare (Part A and Part B) offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. Part C plans typically provide all benefits covered under Part A and Part B and often include additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and wellness programs.

 

Premium

The amount you pay for Medicare Part C coverage. This can vary depending on the plan you choose.

 

Deductible

The amount you must pay out-of-pocket for covered services before your Medicare Part C plan begins to pay.

 

Copayment

A fixed amount you pay for covered services after you’ve paid your deductible. This is often a set dollar amount or a percentage of the cost of the service.

 

Coinsurance

The percentage of the cost of covered services that you’re responsible for paying after you’ve paid your deductible.

 

Out-of-Pocket Maximum

The most you have to pay for covered services in a plan year. Once you reach this limit, your Medicare Part C plan will cover 100% of covered services.

 

Network

The doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers that have agreed to provide services to Medicare Advantage plan members at negotiated rates.

 

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

The time each year when you can make changes to your Medicare coverage. This period typically occurs from October 15th to December 7th.

 

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

A period outside of the Annual Enrollment Period when you can make changes to your Medicare coverage due to specific circumstances, such as moving to a new area or losing other coverage.

 

Medicare Star Ratings

A rating system used to measure the quality of Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans. Plans are rated on a scale of 1 to 5 stars, with 5 stars being the highest quality. These ratings are based on factors such as customer service, patient outcomes, and preventive care services.