Benefits with Medicare don’t end when you get Part A or Part B. Many private companies also offer Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C. This part covers both Part A and Part B, but it might also cover some additional benefits. But do you know what Medicare Part C eligibility is? Keep reading to get familiar.
What is Medicare Part C?
Before proceeding, let us give you a general overview of Medicare Part C. You can think of it as an alternative source of benefits for individuals with Medicare Part A and B. Also known as Medical Advantage Plan, it sometimes has extra benefits like dental care, vision care, hearing aids, etc.
What is the Eligibility for Medicare Part C?
Generally, you must meet two eligibility requirements to access Medicare Part C. These are:
- They must be already enrolled in Medicare parts A and B or Original Medicare.
- An insurance provider in their area must offer Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare Part C. Plus, the plan must be available when you enroll or apply.
Other than this, you can get a Medicare Plan C if:
- Your age is 65 or older
- You’re a citizen of the US or have been a legal permanent resident for at least 5 years.
Some people under 65 might also qualify for Medicare under specific conditions. But some situations can affect your eligibility for Medical Part C. For instance, having End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). People living with ESRD qualify for Original Medicare (Parts A and B), and the coverage might start as soon as the first month of dialysis treatment. In addition, they can enroll in a Special Needs Plan (SNP).
When to Enroll in Medicare Advantage?
The enrollment into Medicare should begin around 3 months prior to your 65th birthday. Furthermore, you can also apply in the month you will turn 65 and during the three months after the day you turn 65. Keep in mind, though, that your coverage might be delayed.
But what if you miss the initial enrollment period? Don’t worry; there is an open enrollment period that provides you with another chance to sign up for a Medicare Plan. The time span for the open enrollment period is from October 15th to December 7th each year, as of now.
After that, there also comes an open enrollment period for Medicare Advantage. Running from January 1st to March 31st, it allows you to make changes in your plan, given that you’re already enrolled in the Medicare Advantage Plan.
What Are the Types of Medicare Part C Plan?
If you’re wondering about Medicare Part C eligibility, you should be aware of the types of Medicare Advantage plans as well. These include:
- Health Maintenance Organization
- Preferred Provider Organization
- Special Needs Plans
- Private Fee-for-Service
- Medical Savings Account
What’s the Takeaway?
In short, Medicare Part C offers what Original Medicare does, but it also has some additional benefits. Although specific conditions allow you to enroll before, you must be 65 to qualify for Medicare Advantage Plan. Eligibility for Medicare Part C has a few requirements. You can contact Red Door Funding at (832) 539-1099 for Medicare and any related information.