Medicare Part C

Medicare Part C is also known as Medicare Advantage.

An MA plan is administered by private insurance companies contracted with the federal government. So, you do not enroll at the Social Security office. You can talk with a licensed Medicare agent like the ones at RAIMA insurance.

What does Medicare Advantage cover?

You are still enrolled in Original Medicare under a Medicare Advantage Plan.

However, MA plans may offer certain benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as:

• Dental coverage
• Vision coverage
• Caregiver Counseling and Training
• Housekeeping
• Prescription Drug Coverage

What does Medicare Part C cost?

Some Medicare Part C plans have premiums as low as $0. However, this does not mean it is free. Medicare pays a monthly sum to the insurance carrier to provide your care. That’s how premiums can be at no-cost to you.

So, be sure to talk to a Part C specialist at RAIMA insurance to see what you can qualify for!

Medicare Part C enrollment periods

You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan when you first get Medicare Part B. You can also do so during the annual election period each fall, which is from October 15 to December 7. Your benefits begin January 1.

Am I eligible for Medicare Part C?

Any Medicare beneficiary is eligible for Part C.

As long as you are enrolled in BOTH Medicare Part A and B you can purchase a Medicare Advantage plan. You cannot drop Part B. If you do so, you will lose Part C coverage.

Also, you cannot have End-Stage Renal Disease. This is the only health question you will have to answer on a Part C application.

What will I pay out-of-pocket for Medicare Advantage?

Every Medicare Part C plan is required to have an out-of-pocket maximum. This amount is decided by Medicare each year. Currently, this number is $7,550.

However, each plan differs and you’ll find many plans that set a lower maximum.

This is a great value because Original Medicare has no out-of-pocket maximum. You are required to pay 20% of your services over and over.