Medicare Part C: Frequently Asked Questions 2023

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is a type of health insurance plan that is offered by private insurance companies and is approved by the Medicare program. It is an alternative to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and provides additional coverage options and benefits for seniors. In this article, we will answer some commonly asked questions about Medicare Part C to help you make an informed decision about your healthcare coverage.

• What does Medicare Part C cover? Medicare Part C plans typically include coverage for hospital and medical services, prescription drugs, and additional benefits such as vision, hearing, and dental. Additionally, many plans also offer coverage for fitness and wellness programs, transportation, and home health services.

• Is Medicare Part C the same as Medicare Supplement? No, Medicare Part C is not the same as Medicare Supplement. Medicare Supplement is also known as Medigap, and it is a separate type of insurance that is meant to supplement Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Medicare Advantage plans replace Original Medicare and provide additional coverage options and benefits.

• Can I change my Medicare Part C plan during the year? Enrollment in Medicare Advantage plans is limited to specific times during the year, such as the Annual Enrollment Period. However, there is a Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year.

• The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is a specific time each year during which individuals with Medicare Advantage plans can make changes to their coverage without penalty. The OEP typically runs from January 1 to March 31, and during this time, you can switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to Original Medicare, switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan, or enroll in a new Medicare Advantage plan if you are not currently enrolled in one.

• This period allows those who are not satisfied with the plan they are currently enrolled in to make changes to their coverage, or to switch to a different plan that better meets their needs. For example, if someone is not satisfied with the providers in their network, or if the monthly premium has increased, they can choose a new plan during the OEP without penalty. It is important to keep in mind that once the OEP ends, you can make changes to your plan only under certain special enrollment period( SEP) or special circumstances.

• As you can see, choosing a Medicare Plan can be complex, convoluted and outright confusing. We at YourMedicare by AYA and associates make this process clear, simple, and understandable. For more information, please call 559-343-2333 or Visit our Video Website at https://your.medicare247.org/