Is Medicare Part C The Same As Medicare Supplemental Insurance?
Is Medicare Part C the same as Medicare supplemental Insurance? No, it is not. Medicare, with its many plans, can sometimes seem confusing. However, a good understanding of the benefits offered can allow Medicare beneficiaries to enjoy substantial savings on healthcare.
What Is Medicare Part C?
Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage Plan, is a primary insurance alternative to separate Medicare Part B and Medicare Part A coverage. It combines the benefits of the two. Medicare Part B normally covers office visits, and Medicare Part A covers hospital and durable medical equipment services. Medicare Part C covers all medically necessary services. It is provided by Medicare-approved private insurance companies and includes coverage for prescribed medications.
What Options Are Available With Medicare Part C?
Medicare Part C includes the following Medicare plan options:
• Special Needs Plans- Options which are intended for patients with long term disease.
• Private Fee-for- Service- The patient may be seen by any physician, and a referral is not required. However, he or she must agree to the terms and fees.
• Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO) – The beneficiary must be serviced by doctors who are a part of the HMO network.
• Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) – The patient can choose any physician, but if the doctor is not a part of the PPO network, the patient could be responsible for additional costs.
• Medical Savings Account (MSA) – These plans consist of two components: an option where coverage doesn’t start until a yearly deductible has been met and a second choice in which Medicare saves money in an account for the patient to apply to medical costs.
Medicare Part C Summary
Medicare Part C is not a Medicare supplemental insurance plan. It is a complete primary plan offering multiple coverage options to Medicare beneficiaries. Medicare Part C can be elected in place of Medicare Part B, Part A, and Plan D.