What Is Medicare Part C? Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans

When it comes to Medicare, there’s more than just Parts A and B. Many people are surprised to learn about Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage. If you're exploring your Medicare options, understanding Part C can help you make the best decision for your health and lifestyle.

At Temecula Medical Group, we're here to help you cut through the confusion and get the care you need—starting with the basics of Medicare Part C.

What Is Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)?

Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage, is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B). These plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.

When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, it replaces your Original Medicare coverage but still gives you access to the same benefits—with some added extras.

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What Does Medicare Part C Cover?

All Medicare Advantage plans are required to cover at least everything Original Medicare (Parts A & B) covers. But many plans go beyond that.

Here’s what you typically get with Medicare Part C:

✅ Hospital Coverage (Part A)

• Inpatient care

• Skilled nursing facility care

• Hospice care (in most cases, this remains under Original Medicare)

✅ Medical Coverage (Part B)

• Doctor visits

• Preventive services

• Outpatient care

• Diagnostic tests and more

➕ Additional Benefits

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer extras not included in Original Medicare, such as:

• Prescription drug coverage (Part D)

• Dental, vision, and hearing benefits

• Wellness programs

• Transportation to medical appointments

• Over-the-counter (OTC) allowances for health products

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Important Things to Know

➤ Provider Networks

Most Medicare Advantage plans have networks—meaning you may need to see doctors and use facilities within that network to get full coverage.

➤ Costs

Medicare Advantage plans often have low or $0 premiums, but you may have copays or coinsurance when you use services. Out-of-pocket limits help protect you from very high costs.

➤ Plan Variety

Plans can vary greatly depending on where you live. Coverage, premiums, and networks differ by county and provider.

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Should You Choose Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage may be a great option if:

• You want extra benefits like vision, dental, or hearing

• You prefer an all-in-one plan that includes drug coverage

• You’re comfortable using a provider network

• You want predictable costs with an out-of-pocket maximum

We’re Here to Help

Choosing the right Medicare plan is a personal decision—and Temecula Medical Group is here to support you every step of the way. We accept several Medicare Advantage plans and can help you understand how your plan works with our services.

Whether you're already enrolled in Part C or considering switching during open enrollment, we're happy to answer your questions and help you make informed choices.

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Author

Temecula Medical Group Place of Healing: We strive to make our clinic a healing space for all of our patients through compassionate care and active listening.