РусскийMedicare Part C
Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage): How and When to Enroll, What It Covers, Costs, and Key Information
How and When to Enroll in Medicare Part C
Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, allows you to receive Medicare benefits through private insurance companies. These plans cover everything Original Medicare covers, and often provide additional benefits, such as prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and hearing services.
- Enrollment Periods: You can join a Medicare Advantage plan during:
- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): When you first become eligible for Medicare.
- Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): From October 15 to December 7 every year.
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period: From January 1 to March 31 for those already enrolled in Medicare Advantage.
What Does Medicare Part C Cover?
Medicare Advantage plans must cover at least the same services as Original Medicare, but many offer additional benefits.
| Service | What Part C Covers | Details |
| Hospital and medical services (Part A & B) | All services covered under Original Medicare | Medicare Advantage plans must provide the same level of coverage as Parts A and B, including hospital care, doctor visits, and preventive services. |
| Prescription drugs | Prescription drug coverage (similar to Part D) | Many Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription drug coverage. |
| Dental, vision, hearing | Additional coverage for routine dental, vision, and hearing care | Unlike Original Medicare, many Medicare Advantage plans include coverage for routine dental, vision, and hearing services. |
| Wellness and fitness programs | Access to fitness programs and wellness services | Many plans offer additional benefits like gym memberships, wellness programs, and transportation to medical appointments. |
Costs of Medicare Part C
Medicare Advantage plans vary widely in cost. While some plans offer $0 premiums, you will still need to pay your Part B premium.
| Type of Cost | 2024 Costs | Details |
| Premium | Varies ($0 to additional premium) | Some plans have no premium beyond your Part B premium, while others may charge more. |
| Out-of-pocket maximum | $8,850 per year (maximum) | Medicare Advantage plans must cap out-of-pocket spending, unlike Original Medicare. |
| Copayments/Coinsurance | Varies by plan | Each plan may have different cost structures, including copayments for doctor visits or coinsurance for hospital stays. |
Key Information About Medicare Part C
- Private insurance alternative to Original Medicare: You receive Medicare benefits through a private insurer, which often bundles extra benefits.
- Costs and benefits vary by plan: Premiums, provider networks, and additional benefits like dental and vision can differ, so it’s important to compare plans carefully.
- Out-of-pocket maximums: Medicare Advantage plans offer protection by capping how much you can spend out of pocket each year.
Source of information www.medicare.gov
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