Medicare Part C
Medicare advantage plans or Medicare Part C are health plans offered by private health insurance companies. All of your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits will be provided through a private company not by Original Medicare. Most of these plans will include prescription drug coverage and may include other benefits not covered by original Medicare. If you are enrolled in Medicare Part A and B you may choose to enroll in Part C during the annual open enrollment window which runs from October 15th through December 7th. If you would like to dis-enroll from an advantage plan the annual Disenrollment period runs from January 1st through February 14th.
Out of pocket costs for Part C Advantage plans will vary based on the plan you choose. Plans have different monthly premiums, co insurance, deductibles and co-pays. Before choosing a plan be absolutely certain you understand the entire cost of the plan.
There are two main types of Advantage plans HMOS and PPOS.
An HMO will require you to see doctors and providers who are on your plans list of approved providers. If you see non-approved providers you may be responsible for the full cost of care. You will also be required to have a primary care doctor and will need referrals for specialty care.
A PPO allows you to choose any provider or healthcare facility that accepts your plan. However, you will pay less if you see preferred providers (in network providers). In most cases these plans will include prescription drug coverage and WILL NOT require referrals for specialty care
Before you choose a Medicare advantage plan be sure your doctors, and other providers of choice (hospitals, skilled nursing facilities) accept your plan.
To learn more about Medicare Advantage plans visit www.medicare.gov. Personalized health insurance counseling for people with Medicare is also available at www.shipcenter.org or by calling 1-877-293-7447.
Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage
Medicare Part D is the option to purchase drug coverage for Original Medicare. This coverage is provided by private insurance companies. The plans vary in cost and coverage. Visit www.medicare.gov to learn more or call 1800 MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
