What are the features, functions and benefits of Medicare C? How can you differentiate it with Medicare Parts A and B?
Under Medicare C or Medicare Advantage Plan, you are required to visit in-network doctors, facilities and other health care providers. Traditional Medicare A and B do not have this requirement. Part C also provides extra benefits like vision and dental coverage and prescription drugs. Medicare C are usually sold through private insurance companies. It may or may not however, be available in certain location or areas depending on the population needs. It is essential that you compare quotes and types from various providers since companies actually charge different prices for plan coverage. Keep in mind that Part C coverage is required to cover all the benefits under traditional plans and under Part C, you will be required to pay a monthly premium. Medicare Part C plan consists for four options namely, Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Provider-Sponsored Organization (PSO), Point-of-Service (POS) and Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO). HMO is the least expensive option but only in-network doctors are covered and you must ask for a referral from your primary care physician before you are allowed to visit a specialist. PSO have facilities that provide medical care and insurance coverage and only doctors within the network are covered under this option. POS allows you to consult with your preferred doctors and specialists but Part C pays less for the services of these non-network providers. PPO is similar to POS but are usually available in rural areas, unlike POS providers which are located in urban areas. In general, Medicare C can reduce your out-of-pocket costs but you have to find out whether the insurance provider in your area offers such plan and coverage. More often than not, insurance companies that do offer such coverage also have the option of pulling out of your area and relocate to another area where there is higher demand for such plan. Answer by general public — June 30, 2009 @ 1:23 pm No CommentsNo comments yet. Leave a comment |
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Medicare C is an optional Medicare Advantage Plan. It is actually an add-on to Medicare Part A and B coverage. Part A covers hospital expenses while Part B covers medical expenses. Part C essentially covers co-pays and deductibles which are required under Parts A and B. You are eligible for Part C if you are already enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B.
