Medicare Advantage is also called Part C
Medicare Part C is another name for Medicare Advantage. These plans are offered by private companies approved by Medicare and provide your Part A and Part B benefits. You must have Part A and Part B to join and generally keep paying your Part B premium.
Start with the care you actually use
Before comparing extras, list your doctors, hospitals, prescriptions, pharmacies, and planned care. Many Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription coverage, but confirm the specific plan before enrolling.
The plan type does not tell the whole story
HMOs generally use a provider network and may require specialist referrals. PPOs generally allow covered care outside the network at a higher cost and typically do not require referrals. The specific plan rules and Evidence of Coverage control.
Know what you may pay when you use care
Plans use copays or coinsurance that vary by service. An annual maximum limits your share of covered medical services under plan rules. Premiums and Part D drug expenses do not count toward that medical maximum. Check any separate network and combined limits.
What I check with you
- The specific doctor, location, hospital, and plan
- Referral and prior authorization requirements
- Each medication and pharmacy when drug coverage is included
- Additional benefits, their limits, and participating providers
Make sure the plan fits how you travel
Emergency and urgently needed care have protections outside the usual network. Routine care while traveling may work differently. Ask about extended time outside the service area and any foreign emergency benefit; do not assume worldwide routine coverage.
Common questions
What is Medicare Part C?
Medicare Part C is another name for Medicare Advantage. A private company approved by Medicare provides your Part A and Part B benefits through a specific plan with its own network, costs, and rules.
Does Medicare Advantage include prescription coverage?
Many Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription coverage, but not every plan does. Check the exact plan, formulary, and pharmacy network before enrolling.
Educational content reviewed September 7, 2026. Confirm current rules and specific plan details before enrolling.