What is Medicare Part C? How much will I pay for Part C?

Original Medicare, Part A and B

When you first become eligible for Medicare, you are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A (Hospital) and you have the option to enroll in Part B (Medical). Medicare Part A & Part B are known as Original Medicare.

Medicare Part C

You may choose to enroll in a Part C Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO) for as little as $0 premium. These plans are offered by private insurance companies that have a contract with Medicare. You must be enrolled in both Part A & Part B to be eligible to enroll in a Part C Medicare Advantage Plan and live in the plan's service area. These plans may also include drug coverage. The Blue Shield of California and Anthem Blue Cross plans I represent do include coverage. Medicare will pay the insurance company a fixed amount each month to completely manage your Part A & Part B Benefits. These plans must follow rules set up by Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans may offer extra coverage, such as hearing, vision and wellness programs like Silver Sneakers, and rides to a health appointment, that are not covered by Original Medicare. This is really great for those who are happy with the network of doctors covered in your plan. You should always check the plan before you enroll to see if the doctors meet your criteria. You may see out of network doctors when out of the area for urgent care and emergency care only.