If you’re getting close to 65 and starting to plan your healthcare strategy, Medicare Part C may be the right choice. With benefits extending beyond Original Medicare, often including coverage for vision, dental, and even prescription drugs, an MA plan makes sense. Are you eligible? If you’d like to find out if you qualify for Part C, here is some information that can help.
What You Need to Join a Medicare Advantage Plan
Basically, there are only two ways to get Medicare coverage: Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) or Medicare Advantage (Part C). In most cases, you can join a Medicare Advantage plan if you meet a few eligibility requirements.
You must live in the service area of your plan.
First, you must live in an area that is serviced by the plan you choose. It’s easy to find out which plans serve your local community. Medicare plan finders generally only ask you to enter a few details about your needs and location. If you live in a different state for part of the year, be sure to check to make sure the plan you’re considering covers you there as well.
You must have Medicare Part A and Part B coverage.
Sometimes seniors wonder if they can purchase a Medicare Advantage plan if they’re currently only covered by Medicare Part A. The answer is no. You must have both Part A and Part B coverage to be eligible to buy a Part C plan. Luckily, once you turn 65, you are automatically enrolled in Original Medicare. However, if you choose to opt out of Part B, you will NOT be eligible to join Part C.
You do not have end-stage renal disease.
Seniors with permanent kidney failure that requires regular dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant are not eligible to join a Medicare Advantage plan.
Medicare Part C is a popular choice because it extends Original Medicare benefits. Many plans include vision, dental, and in most cases, prescription drug coverage, seniors looking for an all-in-one solution often choose Part C.
References:
https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/medicare-health-plans/medicare-advantage-plans/who-can-join-medicare-advantage-plan.html
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